2023 Kia Carnival problems and complaints

Owners have filed 51 complaints with NHTSA about the 2023 Kia Carnival. The most-reported areas: Unknown Or Other (22), Structure (12), Electrical System (6).

Key takeaways

  • 51 owner complaints on file with NHTSA.
  • 1 involve a crash, 0 a fire, 7 reported injuries.
  • Complaints are unverified owner reports; recalls are confirmed defects.
Complaints by component
ComponentComplaintsShare
Unknown Or Other2243%
Structure1224%
Electrical System612%
Engine510%
Fuel/Propulsion System36%
Fuel System24%
Gasoline24%
Latches/Locks/Linkages24%
Chest Clip24%
Buckle24%
Harness24%
Seat Belts24%

One complaint can name several components, so shares add up to more than 100%.

NHTSA 5-Star crash ratings
VersionOverallFrontSideRollover
2023 Kia Carnival MV FWDNot ratedNot ratedNot ratedNot rated

Latest complaints, as filed

Owner-written and unverified by NHTSA.

Fuel/Propulsion System - filed 2026-09-23

Fuel door actuator is electrically tied to cabin door locks with no manual release and frequently fails to open after repeatedly cycling cabin door locks. Issue is not due to bad batteries or other vehicle related electrical faults. Manufacturer has confirmed defect is present in all Kia models from 2020 until now with...

Fuel System, Gasoline - filed 2026-08-04

The contact owns a 2023 Kia Carnival. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the vehicle, causing the contact’s six children to become dizzy from the odor. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V232000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLI...

Unknown Or Other - filed 2026-07-24

Vehicle air conditioning sends off a vinegar like aroma. Likely condensation on coils.

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More for the 2023 Kia Carnival

Complaints are reports filed by owners with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. NHTSA publishes them without verifying them, and counts rise with how many cars were sold, so compare years of the same model rather than different models. Crash ratings are NHTSA's own 5-Star Safety Ratings results.