This page covers 2 recalls, 19 owner complaints and EPA fuel economy for the 2026 Kia Carnival.
21–32 mpg combined
7.4–11.2 L/100km
Minivan - 2WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
Complaints from 2026 Carnival owners center most heavily on vehicle speed control and powertrain behavior, particularly in the hybrid variant. Several owners report an unexpected loss of power accompanied by a "Check Hybrid System" warning, causing the vehicle to slow abruptly and stop, incidents described as occurring on highways and at intersections. Powertrain complaints follow a similar theme, with owners describing the hybrid system cutting out without clear warning. A handful of owners also report instrument cluster screens going blank while driving, which they say eliminates the speedometer and warning indicators simultaneously. Separate reports mention automatic door locking with the key fob still inside the vehicle, and at least one owner describes a power sliding door failing to detect a child in its path. An isolated complaint involves the air conditioning never producing cold air from purchase.
19
Total Complaints
By System
The 2026 Kia Carnival has 2 recalls, the most serious being a fuel leak at the connection between the fuel pipe and fuel rail, which raises the risk of a fire.
A software error can also cause the instrument panel display to go blank or fail, potentially hiding critical information like vehicle speed, tire pressure warnings, or other warning lights while driving.
At a glance
What can fail
The connection between the fuel pipe and fuel rail may loosen or fail, allowing fuel to leak.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the connection, tighten it, or replace the fuel pipe if needed, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
At a glance
What can fail
A software error can cause the instrument panel display to fail, preventing you from seeing important controls and tire pressure information.
What the fix does
Kia will update the instrument panel display software through an over-the-air update or at a dealer, at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
