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2022 Kia Carnival VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

The 2022 KIA Carnival has excellent reliability. There are 5 recalls and 123 owner complaints on file for the 2022 KIA Carnival. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Structure (28), Unknown Or Other (26), Electrical System (20).

Carnival reliability snapshot

80/100
Latest model-year reliability score
4.0/5
RepairPal rating (good)

Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.

Used-car research

Research the KIA Carnival before checking the VIN

Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.

Most-reported 2022 KIA Carnival issues

Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.

  • Structure28
  • Unknown Or Other26
  • Electrical System20
  • Visibility Wiper10
  • Engine7
  • Visibility7

Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2022 KIA Carnival

Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.

  • 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

What owners reported

2022 KIA Carnival owner complaints in detail

Owners have reported 3 crashes and 34 injuries to NHTSA for the 2022 KIA Carnival. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.

Owner complaints28

STRUCTURE

Owners 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.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 0 fire, 12 injury reports

Owner complaints26

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners 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.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 9 injury reports

Owner complaints20

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners 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.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 0 fire, 3 injury reports

Owner complaints10

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Owners 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.

Owner complaints7

ENGINE

Owners 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.

Owner complaints6

POWER TRAIN

Owners 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.

Owner complaints4

SEATS

Owners 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.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 0 fire, 3 injury reports

Owner complaints4

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

Owners 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.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 0 fire, 2 injury reports

Owner complaints3

STEERING

Owners 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.

Owner complaints2

AIR BAGS

Owners 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.

Severity signals: 2 crash, 0 fire, 4 injury reports

2022 Carnival recalls (5)

Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2022 Carnival. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

  1. LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES, STRUCTURENHTSA 21V908000Nov 19, 2021

    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.

  2. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 21V277000Apr 21, 2021

    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.

  3. STRUCTURENHTSA 24V025000Jan 18, 2024

    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.

  4. STRUCTURENHTSA 23V236000Mar 31, 2023

    Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling all 2022 and certain 2023 Carnival vehicles. The auto-reverse feature for the power sliding doors (PSD) may not activate in all situations.

    Consequence: A power sliding door that does not auto-reverse can close on an occupant, increasing the risk of injury.

    Remedy

    Dealers will update the power sliding door control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 28, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC266.

  5. TRAILER HITCHESNHTSA 23V179000Mar 17, 2023
    Park outside until repaired

    Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Carnival vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Water accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.

    Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

    Remedy

    Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and verify whether the vehicle is equipped with a Genuine Kia accessory trailer tow hitch assembly. If equipped, dealers will install a new fuse and wire extension kit. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 16, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC265.

2022 KIA Carnival on the road

678,485 2022 KIA Carnival units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.

How the 2022 KIA Carnival stacks up against rivals

The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.

Reliability verdict for the 2022 Kia Carnival

The 2022 KIA Carnival demonstrates solid reliability, with a score of 80 out of 100, placing it above the segment average. This indicates a generally dependable vehicle, though not without some concerns. The first year of a new generation often presents challenges, yet the Carnival manages these reasonably well.

Complaints are somewhat concentrated, with structure and electrical system issues being the most reported. The presence of five recalls suggests an elevated level of manufacturer attention, though not excessively high. Overall, the distribution of complaints across categories indicates no single overwhelming flaw.

For buyers, the Carnival presents a moderate risk level, with reliability above the segment norm. While some areas warrant attention, the overall reliability remains solid.

What you get in a 2022 Kia Carnival report

Available title brand history
Odometer readings & rollback detection
Accident & damage records
Auction sales with photos
Open safety recalls
Theft & stolen vehicle check

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2022 Kia Carnival — Frequently asked questions

Is the 2022 Kia Carnival reliable?

The 2022 KIA Carnival demonstrates solid reliability, with a score of 80 out of 100, placing it above the segment average. This indicates a generally dependable vehicle, though not without some concerns. The first year of a new generation often presents challenges, yet the Carnival manages these reasonably well.

How many recalls does the 2022 Kia Carnival have?

5 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2022 Kia Carnival. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

What are the most common 2022 Kia Carnival problems?

The most-reported 2022 Kia Carnival problem areas are: Structure (28), Unknown Or Other (26), Electrical System (20).

Should I run a VIN check on a 2022 Kia Carnival?

Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2022 Kia Carnival, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.