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Kia Carnival Reliability Grade

COverall

Below-average reliability

EngineD
TransmissionB+

Grade a specific Kia Carnival

Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.

The Kia Carnival earns a C overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a D for its engine and a B+ for its transmission. It ranks 4th of 5 minivans we grade. The engine (D) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 262 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2022-2024 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.

Kia Carnival reliability by year

Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.

2022C-2023B2024C

Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.

How long does the Kia Carnival last?

170,000Estimated lifespan (miles)

A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.

Known Kia Carnival problems

We track 2 known problem areas for the Kia Carnival, including which model years they affect. They're in the full report, along with miles remaining and a deal score for the car you're looking at.

See Carnival problems

Kia Carnival vs. other minivans

ModelEngineTrans.Overall
Toyota Sienna A A A
Dodge Grand Caravan B+ B- B
Honda Odyssey B- B- B-
Kia Carnival D B+ C
Chrysler Pacifica F F F

Most reliable minivans →

Own a Kia Carnival?

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Kia Carnival reliability FAQ

Is the Kia Carnival reliable?

Below-average reliability. The Kia Carnival earns a C overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a D for its engine and a B+ for its transmission. It ranks 4th of 5 minivans we grade. The engine (D) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 262 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2022-2024 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.

How many miles will a Kia Carnival last?

We estimate a well-maintained Kia Carnival lasts around 170,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.

What are the best years for the Kia Carnival?

No Kia Carnival model year stands out as exceptionally reliable in NHTSA owner complaints. The best-graded years are 2022 and 2023.

What Kia Carnival years should I avoid?

No Kia Carnival model year stands out as a problem year in NHTSA owner complaints.

Is the Kia Carnival transmission reliable?

GradeMyCar grades the Kia Carnival transmission a B+ (above-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.

Is the Kia Carnival engine reliable?

GradeMyCar grades the Kia Carnival engine a D (poor reliability).