🇩🇪 Deutsch
Kia · Van · 2013–2019

Kia Carens RP

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Kia Carens RP is available with 2 engine variants — from 116 to 141 hp.

1.7 CRDi · Diesel· 136–141 PS
2013 2019
Be Careful 7 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
1.6 GDi · Benziner· 132–135 PS
2013 2019
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Kia 1.7 CRDi (Diesel, 136–141 PS) has the D4FD (1.7L CRDi (U2)) — rated: "Be Careful", 7 known weaknesses.

The Kia 1.6 GDi (Benziner, 132–135 PS) has the G4FD (1.6L GDi (Gamma)) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖DCT dual-clutch gearbox judders and fails

The optional 6-speed DCT in the Carens RP tends to judder when pulling away and produces delayed gearshifts. In extreme cases the entire gearbox including the mechatronic unit fails at higher mileage.

Symptoms: Judder when pulling away below 30 km/h, shift delays, in the worst case complete gearbox failure with warning light.
from 100,000 km
Ad Kia Carens DCT clutchKia Carens MechatronicDoppelclutch Kia Carens RP
 High

Alternatives

Same Segment

Ford Galaxy III

Van (2015–2023)

Same Segment

Ford S-Max II

Van (2015–2023)

Same Segment

VW Touran II

Van (2015–2024)

Same Segment

BMW 2er Active Tourer F45

Van (2014–2021)

Same Segment

Fiat 500L 330

Van (2012–2022)

Same Segment

Ford Ranger III

Van (2011–2022)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 19 weaknesses have been documented for the Kia Carens RP (2013–2019) — 11 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, HVAC, Electronics, Suspension.

Carens (D4FD, 2013–2019) — Be Careful: EGR valve seized by soot deposits, Injectors and sealing washer wear, DPF blockage from approx. 150,000 km. Power: 136–141 PS.

Carens (G4FD, 2013–2019) — Be Careful: High-pressure fuel pump failed, Carbon deposits on intake valves, Timing chain noise and elongation. Power: 132–135 PS.

What to watch out for with the Kia Carens? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Kia Carens RP have? +
The Kia Carens RP has 11 known engine weaknesses and 8 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Kia Carens RP? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: G4FD (1.6L GDi (Gamma)), D4FD (1.7L CRDi (U2)). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the D4FD (1.7L CRDi (U2)).
Which Kia Carens RP engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Kia Carens RP — rated: "Decent". {description} 141 hp diesel in the Carens — the sensible family drivetrain with good torque.
Is the Kia Carens RP worth buying used? +
The Kia Carens RP requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Kia Carens RP? +
The Kia Carens RP is available with engine variants from 116 to 141 hp. Petrol: G4FD (1.6L GDi (Gamma)). Diesel: D4FD (1.7L CRDi (U2)).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee