Faults:

I had alternator problem!

Most of the time, ABS light is on.

Sometimes, airbag light also on.

CD player not reliable.

General Comments:

This minivan is a good choice at its current price. However, I had a bad day with this van 3 weeks ago, alternator problem!

Interior is pretty good.

Faults:

Black smoke is very evident when one is caught in traffic. The certified dealer changed the whole muffler system with no charge, but after a few months the smoke was again obviously catching the eye of the traffic enforcers and anti-smoke belching officers. Because of this I bring the van to the dealer to clean my exhaust system. They could not permanently solve the problem.

The fuel pump always accumulates air. Everyday before going to office I have to pump out the air. One day I made a test not to pump out the air. On the fifth day the van could not start, and I had to call the authorized mechanic from the dealer. He loosened some bolts and cranked the engine so the air would come out. I had to pay for that service and I could not work for that day.

Plastic guides on the sliding doors make noises which are irritating when you drive long distances.

General Comments:

The van is comfortable.

It is roomy and relaxing.

It has a smooth ride when cruising.

The engine noise is bearable since it is a diesel engine.

Engine performance is quite commendable except for the smoke that it emits.

Workmanship is below par considering the irritating noises from doors, hinges, and other mechanical assemblies within the cabin.

Air conditioning system is alright, although this has no thermostat control. I have to manually turn off the aircon switch to limit the coldness inside the cabin. Not driver-friendly.

Faults:

At 33,000 kilometers My timing chain broke.

2x replaced rotor discs.

Replaced brake pads every 5,000 kilometers.

Brakes rattles when braking.

Airbag light indicator goes on.

Steering oil pump always replaced.

General Comments:

Kia Carnival might be a good quality and comfortable car.

However the car should always be maintained for possible break outs in the parts and engine.

Faults:

The middle seat tilt levers bent easily.

Moisture seeped into the fog light lens.

There was a rattling sound coming from the middle seat.

The digital clock stopped working.

The rubber seals inside the door handle assembly came loose.

General Comments:

I took it for a long drive in the country and acceleration was good when overtaking.

Automatic transmission worked smoothly, especially when you floor the accelerator.

Sound system is good.

The air conditioning works well and vents are generously provided throughout the interior.

Nice creature comforts.

Faults:

A bit hard to engage the first gear, but it eventually went away. I can't see the front so it's hard to park and weave thru traffic.

There was a squeaking sound near the sliding doors, but it also went away.

General Comments:

The problems were nothing compared to what I get from the Carnival. The power is awesome for a diesel, I can leave gasoline powered vehicles behind yet its very economical. Climbing power is very good, Pajeros and other SUVs are left behind. The interior space and ride is so comfortable, my daughters always fall asleep when they ride it.

The stereo is OK, just needed a sub woofer to enhance the quality of the sound. Dashboard design is very impressive especially at night and there are so many features not found in other cars, lockable drawer, cup holders, eyeglass holder, etc.