2003 Kia Sedona ex problems

General information about Kia-Sedona ex
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

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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Common 2003 Kia Sedona ex problems

The Kia Sedona EX 2003 has been reported to have several common problems by its owners, particularly with the engine and electrical system.

One of the most common problems with the Kia Sedona EX 2003 is the main engine mount, which is located on the top, belt side. This mount tends to be noisy over time, producing creaking and vibration sounds. This issue may be caused by the engine mount's deterioration due to wear and tear, which can lead to engine movement and noise.

Another common problem with the Kia Sedona EX 2003 is the coolant pipes to the heater core. These pipes can leak or crack, causing a coolant leak and reducing the vehicle's heating efficiency. This issue may be caused by the pipes' exposure to extreme temperatures and vibrations, which can lead to their degradation over time.

The Kia Sedona EX 2003 has also been reported to have electrical system problems. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2003 Kia Sedona has 20 complaints for the electrical system at an average of 57,807 miles. The electrical system problems include the battery dying, the power windows and doors not working, and the dashboard lights flickering. These issues may be caused by faulty wiring, blown fuses, or a malfunctioning alternator.

In summary, the Kia Sedona EX 2003 has several common problems, including noisy engine mounts, leaking coolant pipes, and electrical system issues. These problems may require regular maintenance and repairs to ensure the vehicle's longevity and reliability.

What problems does the Kia Sedona have?

Is the Kia Sedona reliable?

The severity of repairs is low, and these issues are less frequent than average, so the Sedona is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.

Why is my Kia Sedona overheating?

The most common reasons a Kia Sedona is overheating are a coolant leak (water pump, radiator, hose etc.), the radiator fan, or a failed thermostat. Coolant leak (water pump, radiator, hose etc.)

Is there any recalls on a 2012 Kia Sedona?

Vehicles recalled: All 2011-2012 model year Kia Sedona vehicles manufactured from March 3, 2010, through Aug. 14, 2012. The problem: Heat generated in the engine compartment under certain conditions could cause the fuel rail to crack, leading to a fuel leak and possibly a fire.

2003 Kia Sedona ex complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Kia Sedona ex.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2003 Kia Sedona ex recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2003 Kia Sedona ex.

2005-10-05

Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
Components: SEATS
Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH POWER SEATS, THE WIRING UNDER THE FRONT SEATS COULD BE MISROUTED, ALLOWING CONTACT WITH METAL SEAT COMPONENTS.
Consequence: THIS CONTACT COULD EVENTUALLY RESULT IN A SHORT CIRCUIT CONDITION THAT MAY RESULT IN A FIRE IN THE JUNCTION BOX AREA OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND RE-ROUTE THE WIRES UNDER THE POWER SEATS, IF NECESSARY, AS WELL AS INSTALL PROTECTIVE SEAMING WELTS AROUND THOSE WIRES TO BETTER INSULATE THEM. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 28, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2003 Kia Sedona ex problems:

common problems with sedona | Kia Forum

https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/common-problems-with-sedona.69807/

Jun 19, 2011 ... Coolant pipes to rear rust and leak. Have seen a lot of these engines with popped head gaskets, warped/cracked heads even after only one ...

2003 Kia Sedona Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues

https://repairpal.com/2003-kia-sedona/problems

Top 2003 Kia Sedona Problems · Starting difficulty due to defective anti-theft control module · Updated Timing Chain Tensioner to Correct Noise on Startup.

Q&A: 2003 Kia Sedona EX & LX - Common Issues & Solutions

https://www.justanswer.com/kia/5yqi6-kia-sedona-ex-2003-kia-sedona-ex-3-5-l-i-wire.html

Dec 14, 2011 ... Look on top of the power steering pump and see if there is a single wire plugged in there. If there is post a picture of what you are seeing.

2003 Kia Sedona Reliability - Consumer Reports

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/kia/sedona/2003/reliability/

Get reliability information for the 2003 Kia Sedona from Consumer Reports, which combines extensive survey data and expert technical knowledge.

Common Kia Sedona Problems: Q&A on 2006 Model & Electrical ...

https://www.justanswer.com/kia/8ufe3-kia-sedona-ex-2006-kia-sedona-electrical-problems.html

Dec 29, 2014 ... My 2006 Kia Sedona has had many electrical problems in 8 years. The latest started with both the battery and brake - Answered by a verified ...