Kia Carnival problems
The Kia Carnival (Korean: 기아 카니발) is a minivan manufactured by Kia since 1998. It was marketed globally under various nameplates, prominently as the Kia Sedona.
The first generation Carnival was introduced in January 1998, and was marketed in a single, short wheelbase version. Second generation models were marketed (2006–2014) in short and long wheelbase variants. A rebadged variant of the second generation was offered in North America as the Hyundai Entourage (2007–2009). Beginning in 2010, the second generation model received updated equipment, including Kia's corporate Tiger Nose grille, as introduced by its then new design chief, Peter Schreyer. Kia introduced its third generation minivan in 2014, solely in a long wheelbase format. The fourth generation was introduced in 2020, when Kia also began using the Carnival nameplate worldwide.
First generation (KV-II; 1998)
The first generation model was manufactured and marketed differently for specific regions, including under a joint venture in the Chinese market with Dongfeng Yueda Kia, as well as the Naza Ria in Malaysia.
In Indonesia and the Philippines, both Carnival/Sedona names were used. Initially introduced as the Carnival in 2001, from 2003 onwards, it was renamed as the Sedona.
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Kia Carnival model years
Common Kia Carnival problems
The Kia Carnival, a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by the South Korean automaker Kia since 1998, has been a popular choice for families and businesses due to its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and stylish exterior. However, like any vehicle, the Kia Carnival has had its share of common problems reported by owners.
One of the most common issues reported by owners of the 2022 Kia Carnival is power sliding door (PSD) problems. Specifically, there have been numerous complaints about the failure of the auto-reverse feature of the PSDs. The doors are supposed to reverse direction if they encounter resistance, but consumers report that excessive force is needed to trigger this feature. This has led to injuries, particularly to arms, hands, and shoulders.
Another common problem reported by owners of the 2022 Kia Carnival is windshield cracking. There are numerous complaints about windshields cracking, sometimes without any apparent cause. This can cause visibility issues and potential safety concerns. Some consumers have reported difficulty getting their windshields replaced due to insufficient stock at dealerships.
Fuel/propulsion system problems have also been reported by owners of the 2022 Kia Carnival. Several complaints highlight various acceleration issues, some blaming cold weather for the problem. There are also problems with the fuel pump that have resulted in a recall. Some consumers had reported that their vehicle wouldn’t accelerate over 10-20 mph, and the car started shaking when they tried to accelerate.
Problems caused by cold weather have also been reported by owners of the 2022 Kia Carnival. There are reports of the vehicle stopping working due to ice in the throttle body when the temperature was below 20° C (4° F). This has raised safety concerns as the vehicle stops working while driving in traffic.
Fuel gauge and pump issues have also been reported by owners of the 2022 Kia Carnival. Some consumers have reported that the fuel gauge doesn’t provide an accurate reading of available fuel – which can be a huge issue. There is also feedback about a faulty fuel pump which compromises the safety of the Carnival.
While the Kia Carnival has had its share of problems, it is important to note that Kia has a reputation for taking customer satisfaction seriously and providing a comprehensive warranty. The Carnival comes with a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, five years/100,000 miles of corrosion protection, and five years/60,000 miles of roadside assistance. This warranty should provide peace of mind to owners of the Kia Carnival, knowing that they are covered in case of any issues.
What is the most common problem with the Kia Carnival?
Based on CR's testing, the Carnival did well in many major trouble spots, including engine, engine cooling, transmission, drive system, fuel emissions, electric system, brakes, and many more. The only areas where the 2022 Carnival underperformed are body hardware (more on this later) and in-car electronics.
Is the Kia Carnival a reliable car?
The 2024 Kia Carnival has a predicted reliability score of 80 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
How many miles will a Kia Carnival last?
Since the Kia Carnival can survive around 200,000 miles, it's okay to invest in one with more than 100,000 miles. All you need to do is ensure the previous owner took care of it through a test drive or an examination from a mechanic.
Is the Kia Carnival being recalled?
The recall affects certain 2022–2024 Sportage and Carnival models and stems from an issue that allows the vehicle's roof molding to detach from the car. Kia is recalling over 100,000 Sportage and Carnival models over an issue stemming from the roof molding.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Carnival years
We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Carnival cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Kia Carnival model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Carnival model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Carnival years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Kia Carnival car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Kia Carnival , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Unknown or other problems
- Structure problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Carnival vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Carnival model years
A total of 5 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Carnival model years
There were a total of 36 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 160 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Carnival . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Carnival vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Kia Carnival 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- VIN: KNDNC5H38N6
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: We have been having an acceleration issue for over a year now. The vehicle will be running fine and the randomly not go over 30 MPH. You could have your foot the floor and the vehicle will not shift or go above 3 rpm’s. This has caused us to be in many dangerous scenarios getting onto an interstate. This has almost caused us to be rear ended multiple times. Problem has be reproduced at the dealer and “repaired” though the problem continues to happen. Sometimes the engine warning light is on when it happens, others times it is not and happens with zero warning.
Kia Carnival 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: KNDNB4H31R6
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Almost all cars next to me are unable to interpret my signal lights due to I) rear signal lights being so low and not at brake lint level, and ii) from signal lights being near the grill and not the corners. This is a huge problem when changing lanes. Same with the reverse light being only on the rear bumper level - it is common for pedestrians and cars to not notice that the car is about to reverse. This is very dangerous and should not have been passed. Kia must remedy this issue at once considering how many lives are at risk.
Kia Carnival 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-05
- VIN: KNDNB4H33R6
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Center rails for center seats get so hot they burn bare skin. (Center rails in the floor)
Kia Carnival 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-29
- VIN: KNDNE5H39R6
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Got in my vehicle one day and noticed fluid dripping from the steering column. I took it into JT's Kia in Rock Hill, SC. At first they told me they were going to wipe off the "grease" then told me they needed to order a whole new steering column. I asked if it was still safe to drive and the service technician said no. I have heard this is a common problem with 2024 Kia Carnivals. Hopefully if enough people report the problem, a recall will be issued.
Kia Carnival 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: KNDNC5H38R6
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Roof molding has either completely detactch or partial detached from top of vehicle 4 times now. They have attempted to glue it back on but it still fails! This is dangerous for other drivers and my family
Kia Carnival 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
- VIN: KNDNE5H37P6
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Kia Carnival. The contact stated that an unknown fluid was leaking from the left side of the steering column while driving at various speeds. The contact took the vehicle to a dealer where the parts on the steering column were wiped down and the contact was instructed to return the vehicle to the dealer if the failure persisted. The failure returned and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer. A diagnostic test was performed, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The contact was informed that the steering column needed to be replaced; however, the part for repair was on backorder. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.
Kia Carnival 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
- VIN: KNDNE5H33R6
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Kia Carnival. The contact stated that oil and grease were leaking from the steering column onto the floorboard mats. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was an excessive grease leak. The vehicle was cleaned and repaired, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 7,000.
Kia Carnival 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-31
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: KNDNB4H32N6
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The sliding doors do not reverse like they should. The sensors are not good. Yes Kia added the warning sounds but it isn’t good enough. My LO’s entire hand was shut in the door.
Kia Carnival 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-26
- VIN: KNDNE5H38R6
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Floor rails are so hot, I had to cover them so my toddler and child could walk across them to get out of the van. The middle seats were taken out and the metal in the floor track gets so hot to even touch. Underneath the car when the car is running is enough to burn one’s legs also.. this is a big issue with us and our Kia and little children.
Kia Carnival 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
- VIN: KNDNC5H31R6
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Brought vehicle in for repair SC292 vehicle roof trim. Dealer (Safford Kia in Fredricksburg, VA) informed me that the trim was in good condition and does not qualify for the recall. I informed the dealer multiple times that the trim has already come off multiple times and is a hazard. They then reiterated that it didn’t qualify for a repair under their standards. Same information was presented directly to Kia Care and I was given the same information. Upon arriving home, a quick glance at the roof trim showed that it was, in fact, separated from the roof in one area and I was able to gently tug at the trim to remove it completely. The dealership failed to do an adequate inspection of the vehicle and repair it as they should have.
Kia Carnival 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-16
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: KNDNC5H37R6
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Rear passenger side seat rails getting extremely hot after short time idling <15 minutes. Enough that I burned my foot tending to my infant in the middle row.
Kia Carnival 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-14
- VIN: KNDNB4H3XP6
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: My 2023 KIA Carnival has a windshield cracked even without hitting rock or anything. My vehicle was parked on the driveway overnight. I can prove that the damage occurred without the car moving. I have this issue on my dash cam too. The data is saved with date and time. Kia Findlay Las Vegas refuses repair. It's not an official recall about this problem. But Similar cases can be read on the Internet.
Kia Carnival 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-12
- VIN: KNDNB4H30N6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Sometimes my passenger side door will slam shut if I am parked on the hill and the sliding door lock is on, I have noticed that it only slams shut if that lock is on. If the lock is not on, it closes on its own without pressing the door close button on the door, on the driver side, or on the key fob.It will close quickly and not normal.
Kia Carnival 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-08
- VIN: KNDNE5H37N6
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The rear sliding doors are unsafe. The sensors do not stop and reverse under pressure of an object in its path. Under a recall "PE22-004" they slowed down the doors and added 2 beep sounds, but that doesn't help when a child has their hand or arm in the path of a closing sliding door. The pressure required to stop the door is extremely unsafe. There needs to be replaced safety pinch sensors added. I tested this as an adult, 200 lbs, and takes an extreme amount of force to stop the door motor from closing on your body parts and will cause injury.
Kia Carnival 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-07
- VIN: KNDNC5H32R6
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: UNKNOWN. Center rails for middle seat in second row were hot to the touch. The floor mats in the second row were hot as well as some items and a shirt on the floor. Kids noticed heat, and at first I thought heat was accidentally on but confirmed ac was still on in the rear. Could feel heat radiating, almost as if your hand was over the hood when hot. Concerned about plastics melting, or a fire starting from this.
Latest 5 recalls Kia Carnival
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the Kia Carnival.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Kia Carnival 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-01-18
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Sportage and 2022-2024 Carnival vehicles. The roof molding may loosen and detach.
- Consequence: A detached roof molding can create a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the roof molding and replace or secure it as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 15, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC292.
- Model: Kia Carnival 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-01-18
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Sportage and 2022-2024 Carnival vehicles. The roof molding may loosen and detach.
- Consequence: A detached roof molding can create a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the roof molding and replace or secure it as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 15, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC292.
- Model: Kia Carnival 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-01-18
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Sportage and 2022-2024 Carnival vehicles. The roof molding may loosen and detach.
- Consequence: A detached roof molding can create a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the roof molding and replace or secure it as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 15, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC292.
- Model: Kia Carnival 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-03-31
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling all 2022 and certain 2023 Carnival vehicles. The auto-reverse feature for the power sliding doors (PSD) may not activate in all situations.
- Consequence: A power sliding door that does not auto-reverse can close on an occupant, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the power sliding door control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 28, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC266.
- Model: Kia Carnival 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-03-31
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling all 2022 and certain 2023 Carnival vehicles. The auto-reverse feature for the power sliding doors (PSD) may not activate in all situations.
- Consequence: A power sliding door that does not auto-reverse can close on an occupant, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the power sliding door control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 28, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC266.
Latest negative Kia Carnival car reviews
Latest positive Kia Carnival car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2024
Just picked up a 2024 Carnival SX and it's a fantastic upgrade from our Pacifica. It comfortably seats 8 and has all the features you could ask for, from wireless charging to Highway Assisted Driving that helps steer the vehicle, not just brake or accelerate like every other minivan. The best part is the peace of mind knowing that the Carnival won't blow a head gasket like the Chrysler Pacifica. Overall, it's a great vehicle with refined driving and better MPG than advertised when using ECO mode.
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Vehicle year: 2024
I really like the look of this car and it's packed with great tech and features. However, I did experience a few issues after driving it for 4 months. Firstly, the fuel indicator wasn't always accurate when below the last quarter. Secondly, there was a lack of low end torque. Thirdly, the check engine light came on twice in very cold weather (-18c), but thankfully it went off the next day. Lastly, the infotainment system was unresponsive in cold weather after a cold start, but it went back to normal after the car warmed up.
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Vehicle year: 2024
The vehicle looks great and has more of an SUV/Crossover look than a Minivan look. I opted for the 2nd row VIP Lounge Seating since I never haul enough people to need 8 seats. There's tons of room and I've always liked the Kia 3rd row seats that stow in the floor. Pop them up and the cargo space goes from generous to huge. The Tech Package is amazing! The user selectable functions and options took me hours to set up (did a software update while I was at it). You can even set up an in-vehicle wireless hotspot that will require a Verizon subscription once the 3 month free trial is over. The only shortcoming in my book is that you can't set up a router WiFi connection. The update process requires downloading the package to a USB drive. It would be nice to download it directly to the vehicle's head unit, but that's a minor issue I can live with.
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Vehicle year: 2023
Finally, a car manufacturer has listened to what all moms have been asking for! We all love the look of SUVs, but we also need sliding doors like a minivan, without actually having to drive a minivan. Thank you, Kia, for designing the very cool, stylish, and super safe Carnival that checks off everything on my must-have list. As a previous Telluride driver, I loved all the cool technology in that vehicle, but I desperately needed sliding doors and more storage/carrying capacity. The Carnival has two captain's chairs that can be put at any spot on the track, and they not only slide back and forth on the track but out width-wise as well. Now, any adult of any height can easily walk into the third functional row. If a family has three or more kids, this vehicle is a must-have! The captain's chairs are full loungers where anyone over 6ft tall can actually recline, with their feet elevated and not even come close to touching the driver or passenger seat. I am so looking forward to taking another adult couple out with our captain chair loungers. The kids love the built-in TVs on the back of the driver/passenger seat, and this will make our next long drive more enjoyable for mommy too. There is a passenger camera which is super cool, so at any time from the driver's viewpoint, I can see behind me without having to take my eyes off the road. Other really cool new features are that both the skylight windows open in the front and the back. The passenger windows open, which is nothing I have seen in a minivan. Hence, this is a Multi-Purpose Vehicle, or as I like to call it, the Super Utility Vehicle! As a repeat Kia owner, I am thoroughly impressed and look forward to showing off the Carnival to all my mom friends!
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Vehicle year: 2023
Beyond a completely versatile functioning vehicle feel, it adds a touch of flash and style with that SUV look.
Are you having problems with your Kia Carnival?
Ansley Schmeler 2024-11-25
Vehicle year: 2024
The only issue at this time is that UVO is not available in my state. I will report back later as I have only driven 2400 miles. It's important to note that the Carnival MPV is not a minivan, according to KIA. I recently purchased the top of the line model and I'm still discovering new features to play with. I changed the backlight for the buttons from blue to purple, but I'm having trouble figuring out how to change it back. Unfortunately, no one at the KIA dealership seems to know. KIA does not allow MA 2022 model year owners to have UVO, and an oil change (full synthetic) is required at 8,000 miles and then every 4,000. I overheard a dealer telling a customer with 22,000 miles that KIA may not be responsible for the cause of engine noise because the customer could not prove all oil changes were done.
Donald Skiles 2024-11-04
Vehicle year: 2023
The only issue at this time is that UVO is not available in my state. I will report back later as I have only driven 2400 miles. It's important to note that the Carnival MPV is not a minivan, according to KIA. I recently purchased the top of the line model and I'm still discovering new features to play with. I changed the backlight for the buttons from blue to purple, but I'm having trouble figuring out how to change it back. Unfortunately, no one at the KIA dealership seems to know. KIA does not allow MA 2022 model year owners to have UVO, and an oil change (full synthetic) is required at 8,000 miles and then every 4,000. I overheard a dealer telling a customer with 22,000 miles that KIA may not be responsible for the cause of engine noise because the customer could not prove all oil changes were done.
Godfrey Schneider 2024-10-28
Vehicle year: 2022
I've been driving this MPV for two years now and I must say, I really like its design, technology, and style. The surround camera view and sensors are my favorite features. However, there are some cons to it. Sometimes it beeps while driving without displaying the reason, which can be quite odd. It also lacks adequate storage space, especially on the doors, where it's impossible to fit a bottle of water or a 20oz pop. The storage behind the seats is also quite limited. While it runs well, it can lag a bit when driving uphill at around 25 mph and the shifting can get a bit weird. Additionally, adjusting one of the second-row seats can be a bit tricky. The service department is okay, but the wait time can be quite long. I've had some issues with the radar sensors and a strange smell coming from the A/C, but they were eventually fixed after a few visits. All in all, it's an okay car, but it doesn't perform well in the snow and the tires wear out quickly. I had to replace them after just 25k miles, and even then, it still struggled in the snow.Hi there! Have you noticed that the sliding doors always pause and restart from the beginning when you start the car while someone is opening them? It can be quite frustrating, can't it?
Amos Reichert 2024-10-27
Vehicle year: 2022
I'm currently on the lookout for a new van to replace my trusty Chevy Astro. I thought I had found the perfect replacement with a KIA, but unfortunately, the model I was interested in didn't allow for a roof rack unless you opted for the jumbo premium seat package. My ideal van would have maximum vertical and length storage, allowing me to transport 10' lumber with ease, as well as AWD and a great tow package for when I need to tow my boat. It would also be great if it could accommodate my kids when necessary. KIA, please consider allowing for more customizable options to maximize interior and exterior storage, similar to the Astro.
Mason Smith 2024-10-19
Vehicle year: 2024
I had a recent experience with a Kia vehicle that I would like to share. Although I was initially interested in purchasing the 2023 Carnival SX Prestige, I ultimately decided against it due to a limitation that I found concerning. As a family with five drivers, it was important for us to have extra keys programmed for our vehicle. Unfortunately, I discovered that Kia does not allow for more than two keys to be programmed for their vehicles. While this was surprising to me, I ultimately decided to explore other options. I hope that this information can be helpful to others who may be considering a Kia vehicle.