My Experience with Findlay Kia - Extremely Disappointing
I purchased a brand-new 2023 Kia Carnival in the summer of 2022 for $48,645.93 (paid in cash).
Unfortunately, my experience has been one disappointment after another.
Shortly after purchasing the vehicle, I discovered that it did not include the communication system that was discussed during the sales process. When I raised the issue, I was simply told that verbal agreements don't count. In other words, I was left with no solution.
Later, while the vehicle was parked in my own driveway, the windshield suddenly cracked. The incident was captured on my dashcam, yet Kia's response was simply that it was not covered under warranty.
On top of that, this vehicle has already been subject to multiple recalls, including serious safety recalls such as:
"A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire."
I use this vehicle commercially for guided tours, so every recall means downtime and lost revenue. Although the recall repairs are free, the vehicle is unavailable during that time. The last recall alone kept my vehicle in the shop for more two days (overnight), forcing me to cancel tours and lose income.
The final straw came after a routine oil change at Findlay Kia.
When I picked up the vehicle, the steering wheel was suddenly crooked. If I held the steering wheel perfectly straight, the vehicle would drift toward the curb. "See picture"
During my next visit for a recall, I pointed out the issue. I was told they would inspect it. When I picked up the vehicle, I specifically asked whether everything had been fixed and was assured that it had.
It hadn't.
The steering wheel was still crooked the moment I drove off the dealership lot. I returned immediately and was told I would need to wait another two hours for someone to inspect it. I agreed. Then I was informed that it would cost me $130.
At that point, I had enough. I told them I would be contacting Kia's corporate headquarters. The employee's response was simply: "Okay, do it. This is the Customer Service at FINDLAY KIA in Las Vegas. Unbelievable!
There are two additional practices at Findlay Kia that I found particularly concerning:
1. Constant offers to buy your vehicle.Every time I drop my vehicle off for service, I receive a text message saying they are "very interested" in buying my car. If you respond, the offer is far below market value. My advice to anyone servicing their vehicle there: be cautious before accepting any offer.
2. The complimentary Multi-Point Inspection.During one inspection, I was told:
"Engine oil level/condition may require attention."
The interesting part? Just 510 miles (about three days) earlier, the vehicle had received a fresh oil change using Mobil 1, one of the highest-quality motor oils available. That inspection result seriously made me question how carefully these inspections are actually performed.
Final Thoughts:
I have owned this vehicle since new and expected much better from a nearly $50k purchase.
Between the missing features, repeated recalls, warranty issues, lost business due to repair downtime, the unresolved steering problem after service, and my overall experience with the dealership, I have completely lost confidence in both Kia and Findlay Kia.
Kia has just lost a long-term customer.
I am genuinely disappointed by what I have experienced with a brand-new vehicle at this price point. read more