KIA CARENS (2018)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 2,703 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,637
£136/month
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Good
Road Tax
£195
Flat rate/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1685cc Diesel
Solid Option
83% pass rate, £1637/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~48 mpg
Flat rate (post-2017)
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 8 years old, 83% of KIA CARENSs from 2018 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 2,703 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 52,577 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
52,577
Average miles
59,200
Expected for age
The average 2018 KIA CARENS has 52,577 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 59,200 miles for a 8-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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KIA CARENS by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 83% | 139 | 51,500 mi | |
| 2018 | 83% | 2,703 | 52,577 mi | |
| 2017 | 82% | 3,168 | 61,814 mi | |
| 2016 | 79% | 3,019 | 70,759 mi | |
| 2015 | 79% | 3,585 | 80,429 mi | |
| 2014 | 78% | 3,824 | 87,028 mi | |
| 2013 | 77% | 2,513 | 94,445 mi | |
| 2012 | 71% | 188 | 91,805 mi | |
| 2011 | 69% | 664 | 98,764 mi | |
| 2010 | 73% | 601 | 99,736 mi | |
| 2009 | 69% | 2,077 | 100,124 mi | |
| 2008 | 68% | 1,934 | 102,459 mi | |
| 2007 | 66% | 855 | 106,122 mi | |
| 2006 | 62% | 554 | 95,903 mi | |
| 2005 | 57% | 275 | 89,214 mi | |
| 2004 | 66% | 195 | 79,548 mi | |
| 2003 | 63% | 97 | 71,057 mi |
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2018 KIA CARENS
The 2018 KIA CARENS is a family car with a 1685cc diesel engine. 2,703 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 90% of 2018 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 52,577 miles at 8 years old, KIA CARENS owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2018 KIA CARENS Fuel Costs
The 1685cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2018 KIA CARENS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,637 (£136/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £195 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 83% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
KIA CARENS Reliability Trend
Newer KIA CARENSs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 12 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2018 KIA CARENS
At 8 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2018 KIA CARENS's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Watch outShort journeys clog the DPF. Replacement costs £1,000-£2,500. Check the DPF warning light and ask about driving patterns.
Turbo Wear
Watch outDiesel turbos work harder and wear faster. Listen for whining noises and check for oil leaks around the turbo housing.
AdBlue System
Medium riskPost-2015 diesels use AdBlue for emissions. Sensor failures and tank heater issues are common. Budget £200-£500 for repairs.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Suspension Wear
Medium riskShock absorbers, springs, and anti-roll bar links typically need attention around this age. Listen for clunks over bumps and check for uneven tyre wear.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2018 KIA CARENS stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KIA CARENS(2018) | 83% | £1037 | £195 | Grp 18-32 | £1637 |
| VOLKSWAGEN GOLF(2017) | 91% | £905 | £190 | Grp 12-25 | £1350-£287 |
| FORD FOCUS(2019) | 89% | £905 | £190 | Grp 12-25 | £1500-£137 |
| MERCEDES A(2019) | 91% | £905 | £190 | Grp 12-25 | £1350-£287 |
| MERCEDES A-CLASS(2017) | 88% | £905 | £190 | Grp 12-25 | £1500-£137 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Kia Models
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VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
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FORD FOCUS
2019 · 1499cc Diesel
MERCEDES A
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