Kia Sedona problems
The Kia Carnival (Korean: 기아 카니발) is a minivan manufactured by Kia since 1998. It was marketed globally under various nameplates, prominently as the Kia Sedona.
The first generation Carnival was introduced in January 1998, and was marketed in a single, short wheelbase version. Second generation models were marketed (2006–2014) in short and long wheelbase variants. A rebadged variant of the second generation was offered in North America as the Hyundai Entourage (2007–2009). Beginning in 2010, the second generation model received updated equipment, including Kia's corporate Tiger Nose grille, as introduced by its then new design chief, Peter Schreyer. Kia introduced its third generation minivan in 2014, solely in a long wheelbase format. The fourth generation was introduced in 2020, when Kia also began using the Carnival nameplate worldwide.
First generation (KV-II; 1998)
The first generation model was manufactured and marketed differently for specific regions, including under a joint venture in the Chinese market with Dongfeng Yueda Kia, as well as the Naza Ria in Malaysia.
In Indonesia and the Philippines, both Carnival/Sedona names were used. Initially introduced as the Carnival in 2001, from 2003 onwards, it was renamed as the Sedona.
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Kia Sedona model years
Common Kia Sedona problems
The Kia Sedona is a popular minivan that has been on the market for over two decades. While most Sedonas are known for their reliability and ability to last up to 250,000 miles with general maintenance, there are certain model years and common problems that owners should be aware of.
One of the most problematic model years for the Sedona is 2016, which is the only model year from the third generation to make the list of years to avoid. The 2016 Sedona has been plagued with electrical concerns, including blinkers that react with the wrong rear light and headlights that abruptly go off, significantly increasing the likelihood of a nighttime collision. Additionally, the 2016 Sedona has been known for expensive repair costs, making it not worth the money.
Another problematic model year for the Sedona is 2002, which was subjected to a slew of safety recalls immediately after its launch. The 2002 Sedona has been known for awkward handling, an underpowered engine, and faulty seat belts that were unable to offer effective restraint in the event of a collision. The most recent recall was issued in 2005 to repair wires that touched the metal beneath the front seats, causing occasional flames.
The 2012 Sedona was infamous for a low roof strength rating and safety concerns if the vehicle was to overturn. Additionally, the construction and safety rating for the vehicle cage only received a "satisfactory" grade. The 2012 model year has also been known for electrical wiring issues from soy-based material, which attracted animals to the undercarriage causing damage to the electrical system.
Common problems with the Sedona include trouble starting the engine, noisy AC, engine misfire, non-functioning gears, malfunctioning turn signals, noisy braking, leaking power steering pipes, air conditioning problems, poor engine idling, and fuel pump failure. These problems can be caused by a faulty switch in the selector lever, uneven brake callipers, leaking power steering pipes, a faulty condenser, a faulty throttle position sensor, and a defective vehicle immobiliser control module.
To fix these problems, owners can replace the switch, selector lever, brake system, power steering pipes, condenser, throttle position sensor, and vehicle immobiliser control module. These parts can be found on BreakerYard.com, where there are also tutorial videos available online to help with the installation process.
In conclusion, while the Kia Sedona is known for its reliability, there are certain model years and common problems that owners should be aware of. By being informed and taking the necessary steps to address these issues, Sedona owners can ensure that their minivans are safe, reliable, and running smoothly.
Do Kia Sedona have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely and always change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your Kia Sedona transmission will quickly slip.
Are Kia Sedona's reliable?
The Kia Sedona has a decent reliability rating. According to withclutch.com, the Sedona has a score of 59.2. This number makes it a vehicle with decent reliability and one of the better selections from the Kia brand. It's also ideal to have a secondary perspective on the reliability of the product.
What is the life expectancy of a Sedona?
What is Kia Sedona lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Kia Sedona is 226,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
Are Kia Sedonas expensive to repair?
A KIA Sedona will cost about $8,160 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for popular minivan models by $1,171.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Sedona years
We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Sedona cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Kia Sedona model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Sedona model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Sedona years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Kia Sedona car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Kia Sedona , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Air bags problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Sedona vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Sedona model years
A total of 122 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Sedona model years
There were a total of 135 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Sedona model years
There were a total of 167 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Sedona model years
There were a total of 8 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2324 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Sedona . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Sedona vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Kia Sedona 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: KNDMB5C14G6
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: I continued to loose engine oil at a rapid speed. Oil loss was excessive for the amount of driving.
Kia Sedona 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: KNDME5C17F6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Complete engine failure, knocking like crazy, fuel smell in the oil, The shop said the fuel in the oil broke it down and allowed the motor to fail. We were driving down the highway when it happened with family and kids which was not safe at all. No warning message at all, no check engine light, the shop has inspected and said it’s failed. The kia dealership has said many of the Kia’s have been recalled for engine failure but not ours? But others with the same motor have been.
Kia Sedona 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: KNDMB5C11G6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Air conditioning became less cool over the summer. Early October 2024, slight rattling noise heard in engine on acceleration. Approximately a week later, the battery died and was replaced. In the following days, rattling noise became louder and also heard a tapping sound. No warning lights, check engine light, etc. Taken to a local mechanic who inspected and informed us the timing chain is nearly completely worn and it has rubbed a hole in the side of the engine. A complete engine replacement is needed!
Kia Sedona 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: KNDMB5C19H6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My engine seized. When I took it to my mechanic they stated it was due to low compression and that Kia engines were known for this issue. He suggested I take it to a Kia dealer to have them replace the engine. I took it and I was denied the replacement. I did some research and found that this issue was in fact very popular among Kia owners. Some expressing their engines actually ignited. I also found there was a class-action lawsuit against Kia for this exact issue. I noticed all Kia models were included in the suit except for the Sedona. During my research I found a mass of Sedona owners who had the same compression issues. It baffles me why my car wasn't included when it has the exact isdues as the other models made by the same manufacturer. I would like to file a complaint in hopes that other Sedona owners have done the same, and we can bring light to this issue, and possibly a solution.
Kia Sedona 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: KNDME5C16G6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine is completely shot. I make all oil changes on time and the engine failed. It was burning oil. Only 111k miles.
Kia Sedona 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: KNDMB5C10K6
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: On [XXX] at [XXX] the following incident happen with my 2019 KIA Sedona. The ABS and Traction Control Warning lights came ON when I applied the brakes when approaching a 4 way stop sign intersection, I heard a loud grinding sound from the back of the Sedona. The Sedona took longer to come to a stop, a full vehicle length past the stop bar. I was put at risk by the Sedona being in the intersection, instead of stopping at the stop bar. After clearing the intersection, I pulled over the Sedona, turned it off and then restarted it. Both the ABS and Traction Control Lights came back ON. I called the Jackson Kia Dealer in Cocoa Florida and got an answering machine for the service department. I left a message letting them know about the alarm lights and that I had already has at least 2 ABS modules replaced. I asked for an appointment as soon as possible to fix the problem. I had been told previously by KIA that it was safe to drive, but that I would have manual brakes in the rear and to apply breaks earlier, plus get the Sedona in for repair at the next opportunity for an appointment. As of yet the dealership has not seen the Sedona to diagnose the exact problem and cause. This is when these systems first appeared, and I had no other indications of a problem. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Kia Sedona 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: KNDMB5C13H6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine had sudden unexplained loss of oil followed shortly after by Engine failure due to broken rod
Kia Sedona 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: KNDME5C19F6
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: When driving on freeways and using my cruise control….. If I need to use my brakes to disengage cruise control when traffic slows and then use the “resume” feature on the C.C. my vehicle continues to accelerate until I shut the cruise off and reset it. If I am resuming to say 65 MPH I can reach 85 MPH in a couple seconds. This happens more than 50 % of the times I use my C.C. As I continue to age and my reflexes slow, this issue becomes a safety issue for me.
Kia Sedona 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: KNDMA5C10H6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: my engine blew while driving on the highway April 2023. my connecting rod snapped. no check engine light or oil warning light ever came on prior to this happening. I had maintained oil changes every 2000 miles since purchase. oil levels were within normal range when this incident occurred. the car showed no symptoms of this happening prior to it happening. Kia has engine recalls but my vehicle was not listed in this recall.
Kia Sedona 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: KNDMB5C17F6
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I got an oil leak and it was covered but it caused a coolant leak and the dealership wants to charge me for this when it should be covered . Also I went a couple of times for my door coming open while I am driving and they didn’t fix it .
Kia Sedona 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-05
- VIN: KNDMB5C14G6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Car seemed to be running as normal except for a slight rattle sometimes when starting. No warning lights, overheating etc. After listening to radio while parked, Car acted as if battery was dead. AAA couldn't get it started. Had it towed to dealership and was told it was a catastrophic engine failure.
Kia Sedona 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: KNDMC5C11G6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Car would not accelerate while driving, while this did not cause an accident in this incident there was definitely the potential for that outcome. Upon inspecting the vehicle, found the vehicle was low on oil by 4 quarts, and no warning lights were on indicating there was a problem with the vehicle. Monitored the vehicle over the next several days to determine if there were any visible oil leaks and there was not. Further inspection by the dealership confirmed there was no visible oil leak and was followed by an oil consumption test by the dealership. Dealership determine that 2 quarts of oil were consumed by the engine over the course of 1,000 mile which is indicates a failure of the test and problems within the engine.
Kia Sedona 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: KNDMC5C13J6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I took the vehicle to get serviced to check the engine light coming on. The Kia dealership stated that the CVVT Assembly and Oil Control Valve had to be replaced. The entire engine would have to be replaced if there was engine damage. The check engine would turn off for a couple of days and then turn back on. When the light would turn off, there was a lack of power, causing a lag in the throttle control.
Kia Sedona 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: KNDMB5C14G6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine Seized
Kia Sedona 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: KNDMB233286
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sedona. The contact stated that while driving 20 MPH and attempting to stop the vehicle, there was an abnormal sound coming from the steering wheel. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the control arm was damaged and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 160,000.
Latest 5 recalls Kia Sedona
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 68 recalls for different components of the Kia Sedona.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Kia Sedona 2016
- Report Received Date: 2022-08-10
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016 Sedona and Sorento vehicles. The vehicles may have been manufactured with faulty automatic transmission shift lever assembly components, preventing the shift lever from locking, which can allow the vehicle to rollaway.
- Consequence: A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of a crash and injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the automatic transmission shift lever assembly components, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 7, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC246.
- Model: Kia Sedona 2019
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-25
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
- Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the ACU, and either update the software or replace the unit, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC226.
- Model: Kia Sedona 2017
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-25
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
- Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the ACU, and either update the software or replace the unit, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC226.
- Model: Kia Sedona 2018
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-25
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
- Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the ACU, and either update the software or replace the unit, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC226.
- Model: Kia Sedona 2017
- Report Received Date: 2021-09-17
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Sedona vehicles. The Smart Junction Box (SJB) software logic may not properly interpret the signals received from the multifunction switch, which could cause the turn signal to activate in the opposite direction of what the driver intended.
- Consequence: A turn signal activating in the opposite direction of what was intended by the driver increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the SJB software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 12, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC217.
Latest negative Kia Sedona car reviews
Latest positive Kia Sedona car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2007
I'm surprised to see negative reviews about the 2007 Kia Sedona. In my experience, it's the most comfortable, luxurious, and spacious vehicle I've ever driven. Whether you're taking a short trip or a long one, you'll feel like you're instantly transported in this car. The ride is incredibly smooth, and the audio system is top-notch. I've been to some of the best concert venues in the country, but I'd choose this surround sound system any day. The climate control is also impressive, and I've heard that NASA even contracted with Kia to design climate systems for manned trips to Mars. It's no wonder why. Driving a 2007 Kia Sedona makes you feel energized, focused, and wise beyond your years. Your friends and family will thank you if you buy one now.
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Vehicle year: 2016
This is definitely the best family vehicle we have ever owned! It is incredibly spacious with ample storage. We absolutely adore the front console, and our kids are thrilled with the captain's chairs. On our last road trip, it got fantastic mileage and handled snowy and icy conditions with ease. The only downside, if you can even call it that, is that Kia doesn't offer a stock DVD/Entertainment system. However, we made do with our portable devices. The Sedona was much more affordable than its competitors, making it an excellent purchase overall. Seriously, parents, if you're deciding between a van and an SUV (like I was), this vehicle will far exceed your expectations with its style, comfortable seating, great mileage, ample storage, and lower insurance rates. Happy shopping!
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Vehicle year: 2015
Please note that my previous vehicle was a Z71 Silverado, and I've never owned anything but GM vehicles! But I have now converted to being a Kia MUV Mom (multi-use vehicle). The smart lift gate is amazing with little ones because I never have any free hands. On a trip out of state, we rented a Yukon, and within a half a day, I was wishing for my Sedona, which I NEVER expected. But the height of it is perfect for car seats, especially infant seats. The sliding doors are ideal with kids. I could go on and on, but suffice it to say, Kia has converted a truck driving country girl to a Sedona-loving mama!!
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Vehicle year: 2018
So glad to hear that you're enjoying your Sedona! It sounds like you made a well-informed decision. You really put it to the test with that long trip, and it outperformed all the other minivans on the market. Impressive! The inclines on the Grapevine can be tough, but it sounds like the Sedona handled them like a champ.
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Vehicle year: 2006
This is the second Kia Sedona that you have owned. It's great to hear that you find it very reliable with no problems at all. Additionally, it's wonderful to know that you find it a very comfortable van with lots of leg room.
Are you having problems with your Kia Sedona?
Freeman Rice 2025-05-16
Vehicle year: 2020
I carefully examined both vehicles and ultimately decided to purchase the Sedona for several reasons. Not only did it have all the features I was looking for, but it was also priced 6 thousand dollars less than the other option. Although I had read some reviews that mentioned a stiff and bumpy ride, I regret not taking a longer test drive to experience it for myself. Unfortunately, the ride was indeed quite uncomfortable and even aggravated my back. As a result, I made the difficult decision to sell the vehicle just three months after purchasing it, which resulted in a significant financial loss.
Rigoberto Brakus 2025-05-07
Vehicle year: 2006
Hello! I wanted to reach out and let you know that I have some concerns about the van you are considering purchasing. Based on my experience, it may end up costing you more to fix than it would to buy a new car. Unfortunately, this van has a few issues that I think you should be aware of. For example, after a certain amount of time, the transmission can start acting up and cause the whole vehicle to jump, which can be quite jarring for passengers. Additionally, the electrical components can be unreliable, with the side doors sometimes failing to open, the radio turning on and off, and the lights not working properly. I just wanted to give you a heads up so that you can make an informed decision. Let me know if you have any questions!
Fletcher Lebsack 2025-04-28
Vehicle year: 2005
I purchased my 2005 Kia Sedona from a private used car dealer, not from KIA. The dealer was a blessing! During the first year, the van had to be taken back and forth to fix the engine light issue. The dealer had a hard time getting the necessary parts, including the power steering, exhaust O2 sensors, and throttle repair. They even had to lube the manual sliding side doors multiple times, but they still had problems. The starter died, the driver's power window motor stopped working, and the valve cover gasket leaked oil into the spark plug well. Unfortunately, the van has some blind spots that can't be repaired. The right front view has a large blind spot where the rearview mirror and roof support are mounted, which has almost caused me to have multiple accidents. However, I still prefer my old Dodge Grand Caravan any day!
Floyd Brakus 2025-04-20
Vehicle year: 2005
This car has had multiple safety issues since we purchased it, including a frozen throttle cable that put my family in danger. Despite initial resistance from Kia, they eventually issued a mass recall due to the severity of our problem. We have also experienced issues with the brakes, windshield wipers, and air conditioning unit. While these issues have been concerning, we have taken appropriate action to address them. Moving forward, we will continue to prioritize safety and ensure that our vehicle is in top condition.
Jordy Stracke 2025-04-18
Vehicle year: 2005
I purchased my Sedona van back in 2005 and noticed that the fuel usage was higher than normal, averaging around 15 to 17. However, overall it wasn't too bad. I did have an issue with the air conditioning, which would turn on and off. I took it to the dealer and they said it had a leak, but unfortunately, the van was out of warranty by just 6 days and they refused to fix it. I was disappointed, but I put in a case number with Kia. They suggested taking it to another Kia dealer for a diagnostic, which cost me $112.00. The diagnostic revealed that the control head was bad in the dash and needed to be replaced, which would have cost $906.00 to fix. Instead of paying that much, I decided not to fix it and went home. I called a junk yard and found the control for the dash for only $43.00. It only took me 45 minutes to take out the old one and put the new one in, and now the air conditioning works perfectly fine. Unfortunately, Kia was not helpful in this situation, so I will not be buying from them again.