2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
One of the years to avoid
With 86 complaints filed to NHTSA — about 1.7 times the median Carnival Hybrid year — the 2025 model ranks #1 of 2 Carnival Hybrid years for complaint volume. It lands on the years-to-avoid list.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across speed control (20), engine (18), and electrical system (16), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.
86
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
3
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 2025 compare to other Carnival Hybrid years?
What are the most common 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed Control | 20 | 23% | new |
| Engine | 18 | 21% | new |
| Electrical System | 16 | 19% | new |
| Transmission | 12 | 14% | new |
| Fuel System | 8 | 9% | new |
| Other | 6 | 7% | new |
| Driver Assistance | 3 | 3% | new |
| Seats | 1 | 1% | new |
| Brakes | 1 | 1% | new |
| Body & Structure | 1 | 1% | new |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“On a day which had a high temperature of 16F our Kia Carnival Hybrid SXP, after not being used most of the day, when driving would not exceed 31 miles per hour. The engine would not rev loudly or give any indication of an error but would not go over 31 mph even with the gas pedal fully depressed.…”
“Van made a loud pop noise and lost power. The HSG belt tensioner spring fell off it's seat loosing tension on the HSG belt. Was unsafe but luckily it happened before getting on the freeway, and coasted into a parking lot. Yes, it's at the dealership getting a replacement tensioner and belt. I…”
“The vehicle shows a Driver Assistance System Warning randomly. Then the vehicle is unable to accelerate past ~30MPH. We almost got hit when this happened. The warning does not show up in notifications nor does it show up in diagnostics. It gets reverts back to normal when the vehicle is turned off…”
“The vehicle shows a Driver Assistance System Warning randomly. Then the vehicle is unable to accelerate past ~30MPH. We almost got hit when this happened. The warning does not show up in notifications nor does it show up in diagnostics. It gets reverts back to normal when the vehicle is turned off…”
“The car gave alert of "hybrid system failure" and showed a picture of a drained battery. After about 20 seconds, we were unable to drive over 30 mph. After about 30 more seconds, the car shut off and had to be jumped to work again. Luckily we were pulling over into a parking lot when it shut off,…”
2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid — common questions
Is the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid reliable?
NHTSA data argues against it: 86 complaints put the 2025 model at #1 of 2 Carnival Hybrid years. It is one of the Carnival Hybrid years to avoid.
What are the most common 2025 Carnival Hybrid problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are speed control (20 complaints), engine (18 complaints), electrical system (16 complaints).
Does the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid.
Which Kia Carnival Hybrid years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Carnival Hybrid years to avoid are 2025.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.