Last updated: 2026-03-06

2022 KIA Carnival Reliability Report
The 2022 KIA Carnival scores 80/100 ("Excellent") with a complaint rate below the segment average. Data shows a dependable ownership experience across 5 recalls and 123 owner complaints.
Recalls
5
Complaints
123
Complaint Rate
1.8
per 10k sold
Est. Annual Cost
N/A
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.
Top Issues to Watch
- STRUCTURE (28)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (20)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (10)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2022 is the first model year of the Fourth generation (KA4).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2022 model year.
- Refreshed in 2025.
- 4th generation Carnival (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2022 pricing and recall counts against 2023+ before deciding.
2022: Fourth generation (KA4) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2025: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2022 KIA Carnival?
The 2022 KIA Carnival earns an Excellent 80/100 reliability score. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
Its complaint rate (1.8 per 10k sold) sits below the Minivan segment average, and most owners report a trouble-free ownership experience.
A solid choice for buyers prioritizing dependability, whether purchased new or used.
Compared to the 2023 KIA Carnival, which scored 2 points higher.
Pros
- +Strong reliability score
- +Below-average complaint rate for Minivan
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −STRUCTURE issues reported (28 complaints)
- −Safety recall: park-outside advisory issued
Compare 2022 KIA Carnival With

2022 Chrysler Pacifica
Reliability: 62/100

2022 Chrysler Voyager
Reliability: 70/100

2022 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon
Reliability: 72/100

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Reliability: 68/100

2022 Lexus NX
Reliability: 75/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 5 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- STRUCTURE (28)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (26)
Recall Overview
5
recalls on record
The 2022 KIA Carnival has 5 recalls on record. This is a moderate number. Each recall represents a safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
1.8
per 10k soldSegment avg: 6.2
Safety Incidents
3
Crashes
0
Fires
34
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2022 KIA Carnival Recall Details
5 recalls have been issued for the 2022 KIA Carnival. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES, STRUCTURE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2022 Carnival vehicles. The remote controller assembly for the passenger-side power sliding door may malfunction, preventing the passenger-side sliding door from securely latching.
Consequence
A power sliding door that fails to latch may open while moving, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the passenger-side power sliding door release actuator's drum and holder inside the remote controller assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 16, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC221.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2022 Carnival vehicles. The plastic fuel rail tube may have been damaged.
Consequence
A damaged fuel rail tube may leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the multi-port injection fuel rail, free of charge. The recall began April 30, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC211.
STRUCTURE
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.
2022 KIA Carnival NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
KIA Carnival Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2022 KIA Carnival Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Tire Pressure Monitor Lamp Diagnosis | $98 – $143 |
| General Diagnosis | $122 – $179 |
| Noise Diagnosis | $122 – $179 |
| Vibration Diagnosis | $122 – $179 |
| No Start Diagnosis | $122 – $179 |
| Pre-Purchase Car Inspection | $183 – $269 |
| Engine Oil Light Diagnosis | $122 – $179 |
| Check Engine Light Diagnosis & Testing | $122 – $179 |
| AC Diagnosis | $122 – $179 |
| Air Conditioning System Leak Inspection | $122 – $179 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2022 KIA Carnival.
Test sliding doors for proper sensor function and resistance to obstruction
Inspect windshield for cracks or chips, especially around edges
Verify engine performance and listen for knocking sounds
Check for accurate fuel gauge readings
Test all electrical components, including horn and gear shift indicators
Inspect seats for secure frames and test release mechanisms
Check for any warning lights on the dashboard, especially related to engine or power train
Buying a 2022 Carnival? Check Its History First
Every 2022 KIA Carnival has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
2022 KIA Carnival Common Problems by Component
123 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STRUCTURE
28 complaintsOwners report that the 2022 Kia Carnival frequently experiences issues with its power sliding doors, which do not stop closing when encountering an obstruction, leading to injuries such as bruised limbs. Complaints often describe the doors requiring excessive force to stop, and there is mention of inadequate sensor performance. Additionally, there are reports of the liftgate strut failing, causing the liftgate to drop unexpectedly, posing a risk of head or neck injury. These issues are typically noted early in the vehicle's life, with some occurring at mileage as low as 500. Safety implications include potential injury to passengers, particularly children, as well as risks associated with the liftgate unexpectedly closing.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
26 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2022 Kia Carnival frequently report issues with the power sliding doors, specifically that they do not reverse or stop when encountering an obstruction, resulting in injuries to children and adults. Complaints describe the doors closing with significant force, failing to detect hands or arms in their path, even after a recall intended to slow door speed and add warning beeps. Additionally, several owners report unexplained windshield cracking and incidents involving air conditioning leaks leading to mold growth. These issues are noted in vehicles with varying mileages, with some incidents occurring as early as 8,000 miles. Safety implications include injuries from door malfunctions, and in one case, a reported crash. This information is relevant for potential buyers considering the vehicle's safety features and reliability.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
20 complaintsOwners report several electrical issues with the 2022 Kia Carnival, with a significant number of complaints focusing on malfunctioning sliding doors and horn failures. Symptoms include sliding doors closing unexpectedly or not reversing when obstructed, and horns intermittently failing to work, which presents safety risks in alerting other drivers. Complaints frequently mention problems with the vehicle's throttle control in cold temperatures, leading to reduced acceleration and "limp mode," with some reports occurring around 9,000 miles. Safety implications are notable, with injuries reported from door malfunctions and potential hazards from throttle issues. These patterns suggest potential concerns for buyers considering this model, particularly regarding electrical reliability and safety features.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (10 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
10 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the windshield of the 2022 Kia Carnival, with several complaints describing cracks appearing without any noticeable impact or debris. These cracks often start small but rapidly expand, sometimes doubling in size within days. A few owners note that even minor hits from small rocks can lead to significant cracking, suggesting the windshield may be susceptible to damage. The timeline for these issues varies, with some occurring shortly after purchase. Safety implications are noted, as cracks can obstruct visibility and potentially compromise safety features like adaptive cruise control. Additionally, one complaint mentions a rear side passenger window shattering unexpectedly. These patterns suggest potential concerns for used car buyers considering this model.
ENGINE (7 complaints)
ENGINE
7 complaintsOwners report recurring engine issues with the 2022 KIA Carnival, often involving loss of power and engine shutdowns. Complaints frequently mention the check engine light illuminating, engine knocking, and acceleration problems, sometimes leaving the vehicle unable to exceed low speeds. These issues are noted at varying mileages, from as low as 13,000 miles to over 66,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, with several instances where the vehicle loses motive power while driving, posing a risk of being stranded or causing traffic disruptions. Additionally, some owners describe problems related to cold weather, such as ice in the throttle body leading to engine failure.
POWER TRAIN (6 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
6 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Kia Carnival frequently report issues with the power train, notably involving delayed shifting and acceleration problems. Complaints describe the vehicle struggling to shift gears, particularly when accelerating from a stop or at highway speeds, sometimes limiting speed to around 30-35 mph. Some owners mention the check engine light illuminating with error codes related to the fuel rail pressure sensor and torque converter. These issues often occur intermittently, making them difficult to reproduce or diagnose at service centers. The problems have been reported at low mileages, around 1,872 miles, and pose safety risks, as some owners report near-accidents due to sudden loss of acceleration or control.
SEATS (4 complaints)
SEATS
4 complaintsOwners of the 2022 KIA Carnival frequently report issues with the middle passenger seats, particularly regarding their release mechanism. Complaints describe the seats coming forward with significant force, often striking occupants in the head or face, leading to injuries such as bruises, headaches, and potential concussions. These incidents have resulted in three reported injuries, with some owners expressing concern about the impact on children or elderly passengers. Additionally, one owner reports the driver's side seat frame breaking, though this issue appears less common. Complaints do not specify mileage ranges, suggesting these problems may occur regardless of vehicle age or usage. Safety implications are noted due to the potential for injury from the seat's forceful movement.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (4 complaints)
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
4 complaintsOwners of the 2022 Kia Carnival frequently report issues with the electronic sliding doors malfunctioning. Common symptoms include the doors closing unexpectedly on individuals, even causing injuries, and the doors opening or failing to latch while the vehicle is in motion. Complaints often involve these issues occurring at low mileages, around 500 to 705 miles, though one report mentions a problem at over 42,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, as incidents have resulted in injuries and potential risks while driving. Buyers considering a used model should be aware of these door sensor and latch malfunctions, as some vehicles have not been successfully repaired despite dealer interventions.
STEERING (3 complaints)
STEERING
3 complaintsOwners of the 2022 KIA Carnival report issues primarily related to the horn and steering components. Complaints frequently mention that the horn fails to work intermittently, which poses a safety risk when alerting other drivers. Additionally, there is a report of a steering column leaking oil, which could indicate potential maintenance needs. Another owner describes problems with the front strut becoming "internally bent" within a year of repair, leading to uneven tire wear and repeated alignments. These issues suggest potential safety implications, such as difficulty in controlling the vehicle or avoiding collisions, and might be of particular concern for buyers considering a used model.
AIR BAGS (2 complaints)
AIR BAGS
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2022 KIA Carnival report issues with airbag deployment during high-speed side-impact collisions. Complaints frequently mention that despite significant impacts, the airbags do not deploy, leading to injuries such as head trauma and concussions. These incidents occur in vehicles with low mileage, soon after purchase, indicating potential early-life failures. Both reported cases involve crashes with multiple injuries, highlighting a critical safety concern. This information is crucial for potential buyers assessing the vehicle's safety features and reliability in crash scenarios.
When Do 2022 KIA Carnival Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst KIA Carnival Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best KIA Carnival Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best KIA Carnival year is 2025 with a reliability score of 88/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2023 (82/100) and 2022 (80/100).
2025
2023
2022
(Current Model)
KIA Carnival Years to Avoid
No KIA Carnival years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The KIA Carnival maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
KIA Carnival Reliability Score Trend
KIA Carnival reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 83/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 80/100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 88/100 | Excellent |
KIA Carnival Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2022 KIA Carnival reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2022 KIA Carnival?
How many recalls does the 2022 KIA Carnival have?
Is the 2022 KIA Carnival expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2022 KIA Carnival without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
Look Up a VIN →How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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