Kia Carnival Reference Library

Kia Carnival: Seat / Headrest (for rear seat)

The rear seating area of your Kia Carnival is equipped with adjustable headrests in all positions, specifically designed to provide essential support for the head and neck while ensuring passenger comfort.

Standard headrest design for Kia Carnival rear passenger seats

* Note: 2nd-row center headrest applies to 8-seat Kia Carnival configurations.

To ensure maximum safety in the event of a collision, the headrest must be correctly adjusted so that the center of the headrest is aligned with the center of gravity of the occupant's head. Generally, this means the headrest height should be aligned with the top of the passenger's eyes. We recommend keeping the headrest as close to the head as possible; avoid using aftermarket back cushions that push your body away from the seatback, as this reduces the protection provided by the Kia Carnival headrest system.

Adjusting the height up and down

2nd row seat

Manual height adjustment mechanism for 2nd row headrests in the Kia Carnival

3rd row seat

Manual height adjustment mechanism for 3rd row headrests in the Kia Carnival

To raise the headrest:

  1. Pull the headrest upward to the desired height (1).

To lower the headrest:

  1. Press and hold the release button (2) located on the headrest support pillar.

  2. Slide the headrest downward to the preferred position (3).

Removal and re-installation

2nd row seat

Headrest removal and installation guide for the 2nd row seat of the Kia Carnival

3rd row seat

Headrest removal and installation guide for the 3rd row seat of the Kia Carnival

To remove the headrest for cleaning or adjustment:

  1. Raise the headrest to its maximum height, then press the release button (1) while simultaneously pulling the headrest upward (2) to detach it from the seatback.

To reinstall the headrest properly into your Kia Carnival:

  1. Align the headrest poles (3) with the guide holes in the seatback while pressing the release button (1).

  2. Lower the headrest and adjust it to your preferred height for optimal comfort and safety.

Always verify that the headrest locks firmly into a set position after adjustment to provide proper neck support for occupants. When reinstalling the headrest, ensure it is facing the correct direction—the support cushion should be positioned towards the front of the vehicle. Installing the headrest in reverse may significantly increase the risk of whiplash injury during a rear-end collision in your Kia Carnival.

Safety confirmation symbol for correct Kia Carnival headrest locking WARNING

Always ensure the headrest is audibly locked into position after adjustment to provide the intended safety protection for occupants.