Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems: Some of the most common problems with the 2023 Kia Carnival include electrical issues, brake problems, engine troubles, and structural concerns.
These issues have even led to three recalls, including one related to a significant fire risk with the tow hitch harness.
Water accumulation on the harness’ printed circuit board could lead to an electrical short, potentially causing a fire.
Take a look below for more detailed information on the 2023 Kia Carnival’s problems and recalls.
This article covers the major issues reported by owners, along with important recall information from the NHTSA, including all three recalls, to help you understand the potential risks—especially the fire hazard—and what steps to take if your vehicle is affected.
Common 2023 Kia Carnival Problems
- Electrical System: Power Sliding Door Issues; Electrical System Errors; Warning Lights; Defective Sensors; Battery Drain
- Engine: Engine Stalling; Engine Warning Lights; Auto Shut-Off Feature Issues
- Structure: Sliding Door Defects; Cracked Windshields; Gas Door Issues
Having Vehicle Problems?
Submit the form below to see if your vehicle qualifies for a lemon law claim.
2023 Kia Carnival Electrical System Problems
One common electrical system concern in the 2023 Kia Carnival involves the power sliding doors, which have been known to malfunction.
These issues can prevent the doors from operating properly, potentially creating safety risks for passengers.
Another issue regularly reported by owners relates to various electrical system failures, including problems with the vehicle’s sensors and warning lights. These malfunctions can disrupt the vehicle’s ability to communicate critical information to the driver.
Drivers have also experienced unexpected battery drain, which can lead to the vehicle not starting or encountering other electrical-related problems.
2023 Kia Carnival Engine Problems
The 2023 Kia Carnival may be prone to several engine-related issues. One of the more concerning problems is engine stalling, where the engine shuts off unexpectedly while driving.
This can create safety hazards and leave drivers worried about the vehicle’s reliability. Another issue involves the engine warning lights, which have been known to turn on without any clear reason, leading to confusion and unnecessary concern among owners.
Additionally, the vehicle’s auto shut-off feature, designed to conserve fuel, has caused some frustration.
While the feature is intended to save gas, it sometimes activates at inconvenient times, leading to confusion for drivers who are unsure whether it’s a normal function or a defect.
2023 Kia Carnival Structure Problems
One common structural problem in the 2023 Kia Carnival involves the power sliding doors, which have been reported to close too forcefully. In some cases, this has led to injuries, especially when the doors are not functioning as expected.
Another issue involves cracking windshields. Owners have reported that the windshields are prone to cracking easily, which can be a significant inconvenience and lead to additional costs for repairs.
Additionally, some owners have experienced problems with the gas door not opening properly, making it difficult to refuel the vehicle and causing frustration.
There have also been several recalls related to structural concerns. For example, on March 17, 2023, Kia issued recall campaign number 23V-179 for certain 2022-2023 Carnival vehicles due to a fire risk with the tow hitch harness.
Water accumulation on the harness’ printed circuit board can cause an electrical short, potentially leading to a fire.
Kia advised owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until repairs were made. Dealers were instructed to install a new fuse and wire extension kit at no charge to the owner.
On March 31, 2023, another recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 23V-236) was issued for certain Carnival vehicles due to the power sliding doors possibly failing to auto-reverse, which could result in the door closing on an occupant and increasing the risk of injury.
Dealers were instructed to update the power sliding door control module software free of charge.
Most recently, on January 18, 2024, Kia issued recall 24V-025 for certain Carnival vehicles due to the roof molding potentially detaching, which could create a road hazard for other vehicles.
The affected vehicles require dealers to inspect and secure or replace the roof molding.
Experiences from 2023 Kia Carnival Drivers
“The driver’s side sliding door was closing and crushed my wife between the door and B pillar. It did not retract upon encountering the resistance of my wife’s body, and continued to close. She has bruising on her arm, and shoulder pain. When submitting this report on the NHTSA website, there is a recall for this exact issue. We have not had the vehicle examined as it is a holiday weekend, and the dealer is closed.”
“Gas door does not open. It is faulty and won’t open when car is locked or unlocked. Unable to open to add fuel to vehicle. It has been giving issues for 3 months. This seems to be a VERY common problem with all KIA Carnivals.”
“Chimes are always false going off distracting me from driving. Radio volume has gone down for no reason since shortly after owning the car, they can’t find any problems. Less than 25,000 miles in we see antifreeze on the outside of the molding unit and it low but when checked out they say there is no leak. About 6 months ago I turned on the AC and this awful musty smell started coming out for the first couple of minutes. This also occurres when the heat is on. I was told today it’s the cabin filter and it needs an AC flush, $250- not covered. It’s at 25,000. I had 100,000 on my last 2 Kia’s, never had this problem and never had to go this. I want to love this car but the list of issues go on. The last 2 Kia’s I owned were the best so I thought I was going to have the same experience with the third, disappointing.”
Is Your Vehicle Covered by Lemon Law?
Lemon laws are designed to protect consumers who purchase vehicles with significant defects, including issues that may affect the safety, reliability, or value of the vehicle.
Whether your 2023 Kia Carnival is covered by lemon law depends on several factors, including the specific issues with your vehicle and the state you live in.
Here are some general steps to determine if your 2023 Kia Carnival qualifies for lemon law protection:
- Check Your State’s Lemon Law: Each state has its own lemon law with specific criteria. You can find detailed information about your state’s lemon law on websites like DMV.org.
- Document Issues: Keep detailed records of all problems with your 2023 Kia Carnival, including the dates and descriptions of issues, repair attempts, and any communications with the dealer or manufacturer. For instance, if you’ve faced recurring electrical issues or engine troubles, document every attempt to fix these problems.
- Number of Repair Attempts: Most states require that the vehicle undergo a certain number of repair attempts (usually 3-4) for the same issue without success. If you’ve experienced repeated problems with the power sliding doors or other persistent defects, this could qualify as a lemon law case.
- Time and Mileage Limits: Lemon laws typically have specific time and mileage limits within which the issues must occur. Make sure the problems with your 2023 Kia Carnival happened within the period specified by your state’s law.
If your 2023 Kia Carnival meets these criteria, you may be eligible for a replacement, refund, or repair under your state’s lemon law.
Lemon law procedures and remedies vary by state but generally offer options such as a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash compensation.
If you choose a refund, the manufacturer may deduct a fee for the time you were able to use the vehicle without significant issues.
If you opt for a replacement vehicle, you might need to pay the difference if the new vehicle costs more than your original purchase price, along with a potential usage fee.
In successful lemon law cases, the vehicle manufacturer is typically required to cover your legal fees and costs, meaning you generally won’t have to worry about out-of-pocket expenses for legal representation.
You Deserve a Reliable Vehicle: Call the Lemon Law Experts
If you’re experiencing ongoing issues with your 2023 Kia Carnival, expert guidance is available to help you navigate the lemon law process.
The Lemon Law Experts have been assisting clients since 2009, securing favorable outcomes for individuals dealing with vehicle defects and warranty concerns.
Our skilled team provides personalized legal support to ensure that your unique situation is addressed and that you receive the compensation or resolution you are entitled to.
Don’t hesitate to contact us to learn about your legal options if you believe your 2023 Kia Carnival may qualify as a lemon.
Call (877) 885-5366 or fill out our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation.
