Kia Carnival 2001 Problems

KIA replaced defective engines in Carnivals that were covered by warranty, but offered owners of cars out of warranty short motors at part-cost, taking into account the number of owners the vehicle had, its service history, its age and the kilometres it had done. Should they have recalled the Carnival and fixed it when they knew it was such a widespread problem? They probably should have.

INTERMITTENT faults can be hard to trace, so you have to go back to the basics and check everything. I doubt it's a transmission problem. It sounds more like an electrical or even a fuel problem, perhaps something as simple as an earth connection on a coil pack or clogged injectors. Take it to a Kia dealer and have it thoroughly checked.

UNLESS you are doing high mileage I find it difficult to believe the engine is tired. In normal circumstances I would expect your car to have done 70,000-80,000km and it shouldn't be anywhere near worn out. The Carnival is renowned for engine problems, so I would have it checked, particularly if you have noticed a loss in performance. I wouldn't consider installing an alternative engine, and I wouldn't consider switching to an auto. The costs are too high. Trade it in.