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: 2003
It's definitely worth considering the $10,000.00 savings over the big 3, especially since it comes with the same equipment. I plan to keep it until the warranty expires.
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Vehicle year: 2007
We bought this van used with only 10,000 miles on it, and we got it for a great price! The Kia Sedona has a comparatively low resale value, but it's still a fantastic vehicle. It's incredibly spacious and comfortable, and it handles like a dream. It's perfect for long trips, and I usually get between 24-25 mpg on the highway. We haven't had any mechanical issues, but the suspension does make a creaking sound over small bumps, which unfortunately isn't covered by the warranty. While the materials quality isn't quite up to par with Japanese rivals, it's still a great vehicle overall. The dashboard is showing some fading in spots, and there are a few wear spots on the passenger seat, but it's still a comfortable and reliable ride.
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Vehicle year: 2021
When it came to choosing a car, we had to consider which one had all the creature comforts my wife wanted. We narrowed it down to the Honda Odyssey Elite and the Kia Sedona SX, both of which had the features we needed. Since we didn't have a preference for either brand, we based our decision on pricing and the offers we received. The Kia ended up being the more affordable option, so we went with that. I must say, I really enjoy driving this car because of all the amazing features it has. It was definitely a great value for the price we paid.
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Vehicle year: 2021
I never thought I would be a minivan mom, but life happened. Now, with two kids under the age of 5, an 80lbs dog, and a husband with physical disabilities, we needed a vehicle that could accommodate our needs. We considered a truck or van, but with a limited budget and my husband's specific requirements, finding the right vehicle was a challenge. That's when we discovered the Kia Sedona. We had compared it to the Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica, both of which were great options, but were out of our price range. The Sedona, on the other hand, was affordable and had everything we needed. Although it has a 6-speed transmission, we still get an average of 26 to 27mpg per tank of gas. The extra space is amazing for hauling around my little ones, and the automatic sliding doors make it easy to get them in and out of the vehicle. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, with the added bonus of being heated and cooled. My husband loves the cooled seat feature. The second-row captain's chairs are just the right size for two full-size car seats, and the third row is spacious enough for adults. We usually leave the third row down for extra hauling capacity, which is perfect for our dog and all our luggage. Another great feature is the built-in sunshades in all rear windows. Overall, the Sedona has been a fantastic choice for our family, and we couldn't be happier with our purchase.Looking back, I wish we had considered/made the move to the Kia Sedona sooner. UPDATE: I am still loving my Kia Sedona. Since purchasing the vehicle, we have not experienced any mechanical or technical issues. We are still easily getting an average of 26-27 mpg. Our van came in very handy during a sudden move to a new home. All in all, I am still very happy with our Sedona.
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Vehicle year: 2007
Hi there! I noticed that you bought your car used and it has over 117,300 miles on it. It's great to hear that it drives like it's still new! The only issue you mentioned is that the fuel economy is just okay, averaging 17mpg with mixed driving. I can imagine that too much city driving can drop it down to 11mpg, but on the highway, it averages 21mpg with mixed speeds. Overall, it sounds like you have a reliable car that still runs great!
Jed Hintz 2025-10-07
Vehicle year: 2015
At only 800 miles since bought new, the car engine stopped and the steering wheel locked by itself while driving with my 2 year old son and 9 month pregnant wife. The dealership has informed me that the car requires a new computer. I am currently awaiting their final response to see if it will be repaired. I am concerned about the safety of my family in the future. However, I am confident that the dealership will take the necessary steps to ensure the car is safe for my family to travel in.
Freddie Heaney 2025-10-05
Vehicle year: 2008
Sedona has most of the equipment that is expected. It can haul a lot of stuff and has a lot of room. However, there is a vibration in the front end that makes this vehicle a big disappointment. Although the tires have all been changed out, the vibration remains. As a friendly heads up, it may be worth contacting KIA to address this issue, as it could impact customer retention. Thank you for bringing this to our attention!
Rashawn McLaughlin 2025-10-02
Vehicle year: 2007
In 2002, I purchased a Kia van, which was the first model they made. It was okay and I drove it every day. However, the 2007 model did not meet my expectations. I was disappointed with it and I have decided that I will not be purchasing another Kia of any kind. I have noticed that Kia is not often rated as one of the best cars to buy. Although I like the exterior and the paint job lasts for 2 years, the engine light comes on in all of them. I have several friends who own Kia cars and the engine light has come on in all of their cars too. Unfortunately, Kia has not been helpful in addressing our complaints about their cars.
Eloy Jakubowski 2025-09-26
Vehicle year: 2006
My red Sedona was purchased used with 60,000 miles and is now used as a taxi. My customers absolutely love riding in it, especially because the engine is so quiet. Even with 239,000 miles on it, it's still running great! I didn't do a tune-up until 225,000 miles, but I made sure to keep up with all the regular maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. This one is an EX. The biggest issue I'm having now is with the electric doors not working, but I'm still trying to find someone outside of the dealership to fix them. I've also noticed that the headlights blow every 3 months, but I've replaced one whole light and that seems to have helped. The sway bar links have to be replaced every year, but I've found that it's hard to find good parts that last if you use aftermarket parts. I usually have to go online to find the best parts!
Lamont Hoppe 2025-09-18
Vehicle year: 2003
I've been driving my Kia Sedona for about 3 years now. Although I purchased it used, it has been pretty reliable and gets me where I need to go. However, I have noticed that it is not the most comfortable ride. Unfortunately, the AC has never worked, despite my husband's attempts to fix it. Additionally, the heat only worked well for the first 2 winters, and now in the coldest winter on record in our area, hot air only comes out of the rear heater and doesn't really warm up the front even after running for a while. The driver's door only opens from the outside due to a broken inside handle, and the driver side back door handle is broken on the outside. Lastly, the sunroof leaks. Overall, I would not recommend this car due to the various issues I have experienced.