2025 Kia Carnival
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2022 | 133 |
| 2023 | 49 |
| 2024 | 72 |
| 2025 | 122 |
| 2026 | 23 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
67% of complaints: electrical system — 82 distinct reports on file.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2025 Kia Carnival. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and coming to a complete stop, the vehicle shut off. There was no warning light illuminated.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260811
12% of complaints: engine — 15 distinct reports on file.
7% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 8 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
Fuel evap canister leak was suspected due to very strong gas smell inside vehicle. Dealership had to change out entire fuel tank to deal with whatever was leaking. Got the car back, and the next day, the smell was back.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260806
The vehicle's passenger cabin continually has a strong odor smell after longer drives or after the vehicle idles for a longer duration in time. The vehicle was brought to Horne, KIA in Gilbert, AZ twice in June for same.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260714
4% of complaints: power train — 5 distinct reports on file.
4% of complaints: exterior lighting — 5 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Carnival vehicles. Fuel may leak at the pipe connection between the fuel pipe and fuel rail.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten, or replace the fuel pipe as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 2, 2026. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC368.
Campaign 26V232000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2025 Kia Carnival — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (82 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (15 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 26V232000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2025 Kia Carnival reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2025 Kia Carnival?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 67% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2025 Kia Carnival have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.