US owners sue Kia over Carnival sliding doors, alleging unsafe design after safety sensor removal. Get the latest on the lawsuit – read now.
The popularity of the Kia Carnival’s electric sliding doors has long been touted as a convenience feature for families. However, a new class action filed in a federal court in Maryland is raising serious safety concerns about the 2022‑2023 model year.
What the Plaintiffs Claim
According to the complaint, Kia quietly removed a key safety component that was standard on the earlier Kia Sedona: a high‑sensitivity sensor strip running along the door edge. The strip would detect even a light touch—such as a hand, foot, or a child’s finger—and immediately reverse the door’s motion.
In the latest Carnival, Kia replaced that strip with a torque‑based sensor built into the motor. The new system only stops the door when it encounters a relatively high resistance, meaning it may not react quickly enough to prevent pinching.
Real‑World Incidents
Several owners have described painful experiences. One plaintiff recounted that her husband’s hand was bruised after the door failed to stop, while another tested the door with his own arm and reported that it continued to close hard enough to cause noticeable bruising.
Kia’s Defense
Kia filed a motion to dismiss, arguing that the plaintiffs have not demonstrated a genuine defect because no serious injuries—such as broken bones—have been reported. The automaker also maintains that its sliding‑door system complies with all applicable safety standards.
The Court’s Response
The judge rejected Kia’s motion, stating that “the risk does not have to wait for a broken bone before it is considered unsafe.” The ruling emphasized that the replacement of a highly responsive sensor with a less sensitive torque‑based system creates an “unreasonable danger,” especially for young children.
What Comes Next?
The lawsuit is proceeding, and the outcome could have implications for future Kia designs and possibly trigger broader industry scrutiny of sliding‑door safety mechanisms.
Stay tuned for updates as the case develops.