2003 KIA SEDONA

4 recalls, 214 complaints - 30 TSBs

05V329000 Jul 20, 2005
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
Defect Description
ON CERTAIN MINI VANS, FREEZING CONDITIONS CAN CAUSE WATER ON THE THROTTLE CABLE TO FREEZE DURING NORMAL OPERATION. RESISTANCE TO MOVEMENT OF THE THROTTLE CABLE CAN OCCUR WHEN THE DRIVER LIFTS THEIR FOOT OFF OF THE GAS PEDAL.
Consequence
THIS CAN CAUSE THE CABLE TO STICK, THUS PREVENTING THE ENGINE FROM RETURNING TO IDLE AND CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO MAINTAIN SPEED OR ACCELERATE. SUCH AN EVENT CAN OCCUR WITHOUT WARNING AND COULD CAUSE A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL MODIFY A PROTECTIVE SLEEVE AROUND THE THROTTLE CABLE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 15, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
118,447 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
05V232000 May 19, 2005
WHEELS
Defect Description
ON CERTAIN MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH ALLOY WHEELS, MOISTURE CAN ACCUMULATE AROUND THE REAR HUB CAPS CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE OUTER WHEEL BEARING.
Consequence
WHEEL BEARING FAILURE MAY OCCUR WITHOUT WARNING WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR HUB CAPS FREE OF CHARGE. UPON INSPECTION, SOME VEHICLES WILL ALSO REQUIRE REPLACEMENT OF THE REAR OUTER BEARINGS AND/OR HUB ASSEMBLY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 13, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
37,358 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
05V013000 Jan 19, 2005
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
Defect Description
ON CERTAIN MINI VANS, DURING ASSEMBLY, THE THROTTLE CABLE WOULD TWIST ITSELF OUT OF POSITION.
Consequence
THIS CAN PERMIT THE CABLE TO BE HUNG UP, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE THROTTLE CABLE FREE OF CHARGE. VEHICLES PRODUCED FROM MARCH 20, 2001 THROUGH NOVEMBER 7, 2001 WILL HAVE A GUIDE CLIP INSTALLED ON THE THROTTLE BODY ASSEMBLY IN ORDER TO ENSURE THAT THE TENSION FORCE CABLE DOES NOT MOVE OUT OF POSITION. VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BEGINNING ON N... Read more
89,238 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
03V158000 Apr 25, 2003
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Defect Description
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THERE WAS A PROGRAMMING ERROR IN THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS) ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE LOGIC. THE PROGRAMMING ERROR COULD CAUSE REDUCED BRAKING FORCE AT SPEEDS BELOW 25 MPH, WHICH COULD RESULT IN INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES.
Consequence
SUCH INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE CONTROL MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MAY 19, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
3,375 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.

Complaint Statistics

214 total complaints 14 crashes 26 fires 25 injuries

Top Reported Components

ComponentComplaints
AIR BAGS20
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM20
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING9
TIRES9
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC8
SEAT BELTS7
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE6
WHEELS6
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL6
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH5
ENGINE Dec 10, 2022
Incident date: Nov 11, 2022
My Sedona keeps catching on fire not sure why but now if I get it up to temperature it automatically catches on fire I'm going into my second fire extinguishe
Fire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Dec 10, 2022
Incident date: Nov 11, 2022
My Sedona keeps catching on fire not sure why but now if I get it up to temperature it automatically catches on fire I'm going into my second fire extinguishe
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Dec 10, 2022
Incident date: Nov 11, 2022
My Sedona keeps catching on fire not sure why but now if I get it up to temperature it automatically catches on fire I'm going into my second fire extinguishe
Fire
STEERING Jun 1, 2021
Incident date: Jun 1, 2021
The contact owns a 2003 Kia Sedona. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the steering wheel became difficult to steer. The contact pulled over and left the vehicle. The contact returned 2 days later and drove the vehicle home. The contact stated that the check engine, brakes and air bag warning ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jul 14, 2020
Incident date: Dec 29, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND SHUT OFF THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SEAT HAD EXPERIENCED A FIRE AND MELTED. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED SMOKE AND SOOT PRESENT INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND A BURN HOLE IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. NO POLICE REPORT WAS TAKE... Read more
Fire
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER Jul 14, 2020
Incident date: Dec 29, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND SHUT OFF THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SEAT HAD EXPERIENCED A FIRE AND MELTED. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED SMOKE AND SOOT PRESENT INSIDE THE VEHICLE AND A BURN HOLE IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. NO POLICE REPORT WAS TAKE... Read more
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM May 8, 2020
Incident date: May 7, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND FAILED TO SHIFT INTO THE DESIRED GEAR WITH SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE HOME, PARKED THE VEHICLE, AND UPON OPENING THE HOOD SAW FLAMES. THE CONT... Read more
Fire
ENGINE May 8, 2020
Incident date: May 7, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND FAILED TO SHIFT INTO THE DESIRED GEAR WITH SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE HOME, PARKED THE VEHICLE, AND UPON OPENING THE HOOD SAW FLAMES. THE CONT... Read more
Fire
SERVICE BRAKES Aug 22, 2018
Incident date: Aug 10, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL SEIZED HALFWAY DOWN WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT SWERVED ONTO THE SIDEWALK AND STOPPED 30 YARDS IN A PARKING LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE ELECTRIC COMPUTER... Read more
TIRES Jul 18, 2018
Incident date: May 31, 2018
ON FEB. 25, 2018, WE PURCHASED A 2003 KIA SEDONA VAN FROM CITY START AUTO SALES IN PARADISE, CA. ALL FOUR TIRES AND THE SPARE WERE GOODYEAR INTEGRITY 215/70R15. THE TIRES READ MAX. PSI 44, BUT THE VAN SAID TO RUN AT 35 PSI. SO, ONCE A WEEK ON A COOL MORNING (BETWEEN 68-75 DEGREES OUTSIDE WITHOUT IT ... Read more
AIR BAGS Jun 12, 2017
Incident date: Jun 11, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. WHILE DRIVING 2 MPH, THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING OR IMPACT. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THERE WAS NO CRASH OR FIRE. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED CUTS ON THE FACE AND ARMS. THE PASSENGER SUSTAI... Read more
6 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY Dec 29, 2016
Incident date: Dec 6, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS RUSTED WHEN IT WAS WET. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.
AIR BAGS Dec 30, 2015
Incident date: Apr 1, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A DEER AND CAUSED SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END. DURING THE CRASH, THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNO... Read more
Crash
SEAT BELTS Sep 24, 2015
Incident date: Sep 15, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO BUCKLE THE SEAT BELT, THE SECOND ROW SEAT BELT ANCHOR CABLES SNAPPED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VE... Read more
AIR BAGS Sep 21, 2015
Incident date: Dec 27, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE IN PARK AND STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 132,000.
AIR BAGS Sep 9, 2015
Incident date: Mar 20, 2015
THE AIR BAG LIGHT CAM ON AND IS STILL ON. THIS AIR BAG NEEDS TO BE REPLACED....UPDATED 11/04/15 *BF
WHEELS Jul 30, 2015
Incident date: Mar 2, 2015
REAR WHEEL BEARING FREEZING UP MAKING TIRE COME OFF
SERVICE BRAKES Jul 29, 2015
Incident date: Jan 5, 2015
ABS LIGHT ON FRONT BRAKES ON DRIVERS SIDE NOT WORKING RIGHT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS Jun 12, 2015
Incident date: May 22, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, SMOKE APPEARED UNDER THE DRIVER SIDE DASHBOARD. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO CLEAR OUT THE SMOKE AND NOTICED THAT THE FUSE BOX CAUGHT FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEA... Read more
Fire
AIR BAGS Apr 3, 2015
Incident date: Mar 13, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED INDEPENDENTLY. AS A RESULT, THE WINDSHIELD SHATTERED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED TWO BROKEN FINGERS THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED ... Read more
1 injured
ENGINE Mar 18, 2015
Incident date: Feb 21, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE IN PARK, THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE W... Read more
Fire
SERVICE BRAKES Mar 9, 2015
Incident date: Apr 15, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE BRAKE FAILED TO RESPOND WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC, WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ABS SYSTEM FAILED TO ALLOW BRAKE FL... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER Jan 31, 2015
Incident date: Sep 1, 2014
I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE USED. IT DROVE JUST FINE FOR THE FIRST SEVERAL MONTHS, BUT EVENTUALLY IT WOULD START SPUTTERING LIKE IT WAS OUT OF GAS WHEN IT ACTUALLY HAD GAS IN THE VEHICLE. EVENTUALLY, IT CAME TO A POINT WHEN IT WOULD RUN WHEN IT WANTED TO AND STALL WHEN IT WANTED TO. I TOOK IT TO A SERVI... Read more
ENGINE Jan 31, 2015
Incident date: Sep 1, 2014
I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE USED. IT DROVE JUST FINE FOR THE FIRST SEVERAL MONTHS, BUT EVENTUALLY IT WOULD START SPUTTERING LIKE IT WAS OUT OF GAS WHEN IT ACTUALLY HAD GAS IN THE VEHICLE. EVENTUALLY, IT CAME TO A POINT WHEN IT WOULD RUN WHEN IT WANTED TO AND STALL WHEN IT WANTED TO. I TOOK IT TO A SERVI... Read more
AIR BAGS Nov 19, 2014
Incident date: Nov 17, 2014
MY AIRBAG LITE HAS BEEN TURNING OFF AND ON AT DIFFERENT TIMES..EG. LITE TURNS ON AND IS ON FOR ABOUT 15 TO 20 SECONDS THEN TURNS OFF. NOW, 11/17/2014 WHEN I STARTED TO DRIVE IT, THE LIGHT WENT ON AND HAS STAYED ON EVER SINCE WHEN THE IGNITION IS ON. I WANTED TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I... Read more
EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY Nov 19, 2014
Incident date: Nov 17, 2014
MY AIRBAG LITE HAS BEEN TURNING OFF AND ON AT DIFFERENT TIMES..EG. LITE TURNS ON AND IS ON FOR ABOUT 15 TO 20 SECONDS THEN TURNS OFF. NOW, 11/17/2014 WHEN I STARTED TO DRIVE IT, THE LIGHT WENT ON AND HAS STAYED ON EVER SINCE WHEN THE IGNITION IS ON. I WANTED TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Nov 12, 2014
Incident date: Oct 20, 2014
FUSE PANEL CAUGHT FIRE AND BURNT WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND NOT IN USE. VEHICLE IS NO LONGER FUNCTIONAL. *TR
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Apr 9, 2014
Incident date: Apr 8, 2014
WHILE DRIVING TO THE GAS STATION TO GET SOME GAS THE CAR DIED. AFTER A TWO MINUTE WAIT, WE RESTARTED THE CAR WITH NO PROBLEM.. THIS DID HAPPEN ONE OTHER TIME TWO WEEKS BEFORE AND IT SHUT OFF APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION. THERE WAS PLENTY OF FUEL IN THE SYSTEM. AGAIN, WAITED A MINUTE AND IT RESTA... Read more
AIR BAGS Mar 24, 2014
Incident date: Jan 31, 2014
I BOUGHT A USED 2003 KIA SEDONA WITH 136000 MILES. THE DAY AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE, THE SRS INDICATOR LIGHT STARTED STAYING LIT ON THE DASH. MY MECHANIC FOUND THAT THE CODE WAS B1513, WHICH INDICATED A PROBLEM WITH THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT BUCKLE (FEMALE END). THEY ORDERED THAT PART NEW FROM ... Read more
SEAT BELTS Mar 24, 2014
Incident date: Jan 31, 2014
I BOUGHT A USED 2003 KIA SEDONA WITH 136000 MILES. THE DAY AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE, THE SRS INDICATOR LIGHT STARTED STAYING LIT ON THE DASH. MY MECHANIC FOUND THAT THE CODE WAS B1513, WHICH INDICATED A PROBLEM WITH THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT BUCKLE (FEMALE END). THEY ORDERED THAT PART NEW FROM ... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES Aug 3, 2013
Incident date: Jul 3, 2008
I BOUGHT A 2003 SEDONA USED IN 2007 WITH ABOUT 50000 MILES AND HAVE NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS EVER SINCE. 1ST IN 7/08 I WENT TO A LOCAL SHOP (NOT KIA) BECAUSE MY ENGINE SEEMED VERY LOUD. THE MECHANIC TOLD ME I NEEDED NEW MOTOR MOUNTS N THAT IT WAS KIND OF UNUSUAL FOR A CAR TO NEED THEM SO SOON. I DID CAL... Read more
ENGINE Aug 3, 2013
Incident date: Jul 3, 2008
I BOUGHT A 2003 SEDONA USED IN 2007 WITH ABOUT 50000 MILES AND HAVE NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS EVER SINCE. 1ST IN 7/08 I WENT TO A LOCAL SHOP (NOT KIA) BECAUSE MY ENGINE SEEMED VERY LOUD. THE MECHANIC TOLD ME I NEEDED NEW MOTOR MOUNTS N THAT IT WAS KIND OF UNUSUAL FOR A CAR TO NEED THEM SO SOON. I DID CAL... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Aug 3, 2013
Incident date: Jul 3, 2008
I BOUGHT A 2003 SEDONA USED IN 2007 WITH ABOUT 50000 MILES AND HAVE NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS EVER SINCE. 1ST IN 7/08 I WENT TO A LOCAL SHOP (NOT KIA) BECAUSE MY ENGINE SEEMED VERY LOUD. THE MECHANIC TOLD ME I NEEDED NEW MOTOR MOUNTS N THAT IT WAS KIND OF UNUSUAL FOR A CAR TO NEED THEM SO SOON. I DID CAL... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jun 22, 2013
Incident date: Oct 1, 2012
I PURCHASED THE 2003 KIA SEDONA IN JUNE OF 2012 AND BY OCTOBER OF 2013 WE HAD TO REPLACE THE ALTERNATOR TWICE IN LESS THEN A MONTH DUE TO IT LOSING POWER NOW THE CAR CONTINUES TO LOOSE POWER WHEN DRIVING AND WHILE IT IS STOPPED. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO 3 DIFFERENT MECHANICS AND NO ONE CAN FIGURE OUT WHAT... Read more
AIR BAGS Jun 12, 2013
Incident date: Feb 7, 2013
SRS LIGHT STAYS-ON CAUSED BY BROKEN SEAT-BELT BUCKLE WIRING UNDER PASSENGER AND DRIVER SEATS. BUCKLE SENSOR WIRING IS VULNERABLE TO SHEARING AND DAMAGE AS ANY OF BOTH SEATS IS ADJUSTED BACK AND FORTH. NEW PARTS COST MORE THAN $300, PLUS LABOR. AFTER REPAIRS, THE SRS CAN BE RESET ONLY AT THE DEALERSH... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY Feb 19, 2013
Incident date: Jul 5, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT OVER THE COURSE OF A YEAR, THE FRONT DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER INTERIOR DOOR HANDLES FAILED ALONG WITH THE REAR PASSENGER AND FRONT DRIVER SIDE EXTERIOR DOOR HANDLES. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT OFFERED ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Nov 30, 2012
Incident date: Nov 25, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE PARKED, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE FROM UNDER THE DRIVER'S SIDE DASHBOARD AREA. PRIOR TO THE FIRE, THE HORN ACTIVATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND WAS NOT INSPECTED FOR THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE. THE FAILURE AND THE CU... Read more
Fire
SEAT BELTS Aug 1, 2012
Incident date: Jul 24, 2012
I HAVE A 2003 KIA SEDONA AND MY 8 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER WENT TO BUCKLE HER SEAT BELT, 2ND ROW DRIVERS SIDE, AND THE BUCKLE PART CAME OFF THE SEAT. UPON INSPECTION I FOUND THAT THE BUCKLE WAS BROKE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STEEL CABLE THAT HOLDS THE BUCKLE TO THE SEAT, THERE IS THE BUCKLE, CABLE, THEN BOLTS ... Read more
AIR BAGS Apr 10, 2012
Incident date: Jul 5, 2006
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT ON THE PASSENGER?S SIDE THIRD ROW SEAT SEIZED AND WOULD NOT RELEASE THE PASSENGER. THE SEAT BELT HAD TO BE CUT FROM AROUND THE PASSENGER. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT FOR THE THIRD ROW SEAT ON THE DRI... Read more
SEAT BELTS Apr 10, 2012
Incident date: Jul 5, 2006
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT ON THE PASSENGER?S SIDE THIRD ROW SEAT SEIZED AND WOULD NOT RELEASE THE PASSENGER. THE SEAT BELT HAD TO BE CUT FROM AROUND THE PASSENGER. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT FOR THE THIRD ROW SEAT ON THE DRI... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Mar 20, 2012
Incident date: Mar 19, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START AND WOULD HAVE TO BE JUMP STARTED EVERY THREE HOURS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED TO THE CONTACT THAT THE BATTERY WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. A REPLACEMENT BATTERY WAS INSTALLED YET THE VE... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY Dec 6, 2011
Incident date: Dec 6, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR DOOR WAS UNABLE TO BE OPENED FROM THE INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURREN... Read more
SEAT BELTS Sep 20, 2011
Incident date: Dec 15, 2010
SEAT BELTS (FEMALE PART) THE PIECE THAT YOU SNAP THE SEAT BELT INTO, BROKE TOTALLY OFF ALL THE WAY. NOT 1 BUT 2 SEAT BELTS IN MY VAN HAS DONE THIS. AND NOT ONLY THAT THE DOOR HANDLES BROKE OFF ON THE OUTSIDE AND INSIDE. I'VE CALLED KIA TO REPORT THESE PROBLEMS AND THEY WANT ME TO PAY FOR ALL THIS. S... Read more
TIRES Dec 1, 2010
Incident date: Jan 15, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA EQUIPPED WITH BRIDGESTONE FIRESTONE FR380 TIRES, TIRE SIZE P215/70/R15. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, AND THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE AND STEERING WHEEL BEGAN TO SHAKE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A TIRE CENTER WHERE THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE AND ... Read more
WHEELS Oct 1, 2010
Incident date: Aug 23, 2010
THE BACK RIGHT WHEEL CAME OFF OF OUR 2003 KIA SEDONA VAN. MY WIFE HEARD A LOUD NOISE AS SHE WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD. SHE APPLIED THE BRAKES BUT THE CAR HAD DIFFICULTY STOPPING. SHE MANAGED TO PULL THE VAN OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. WHEN THE TOW TRUCK CAME, IT PULLED THE VAN ABOUT A FOOT BEFORE... Read more
AIR BAGS Sep 20, 2010
Incident date: Sep 16, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE FELL ASLEEP BEHIND THE WHEEL WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, WHICH RESULTED IN THE VEHICLE CRASHING INTO A TREE. THE CONTACT STRUCK THE FRONT WINDSHIELD AND SUSTAINED SEVERE HEAD INJURIES. THE CONTACT'S SEAT BELT WAS SECURED AND... Read more
Crash 1 injured
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Sep 17, 2010
Incident date: Sep 7, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS ABNORMALLY LOOSING COOLANT FLUID. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL REPAIR FACILITY WHERE THE FAILURE WAS DIAGNOSED AS A CORRODED HEATER COOLING PIPE. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WA... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Sep 11, 2010
Incident date: Jun 15, 2010
2003 KIA SEDONA RAN GREAT FOR THE 3 YEARS WE OWNED IT. WENT TO GO HOME FROM WORK AND IT MADE A LOUD NOISE AND THE MOTOR SHUT OFF. HAD A VERY HARD TIME PULLING OVER. NOW IT WONT TURN OVER AT ALL. NOT EVEN WITH A JUMP. CHECKED OILS ,WATER , BATTERY,CABLES AND EVERYTHING APPEARED GOOD. REGULAR OIL CHAN... Read more
WHEELS Jul 13, 2010
Incident date: May 1, 2007
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, A LOUD NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE FRONT WHEELS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL BEARING AND HUB CAP WERE REPLACED. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON EACH WHEEL ON THE VEHICLE ... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Jul 12, 2010
Incident date: Jul 11, 2010
2003 KIA SEDONA EX CAUGHT ON FIRE 07/11/10. VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR MORE THAN AN HOUR AND NOT RUNNING. RESULTANT VEHICLE DESTROYED AND SURROUNDING VEHICLES HAD MELTED COMPONENTS, DRIVER SIDE MIRRORS, ROOF RACK, BUMPERS, HEADLIGHTS AND CRACKED WINDSHIELD DUE TO EXPLOSION AND LAUNCH OF A REACH STRUT.... Read more
Fire

Showing 50 of 214 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 2003 KIA SEDONA

Trim / Engine City MPG Highway MPG Combined MPG Fuel Type Annual Fuel Cost
3.5L 6-cyl, Automatic 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) 14.0 18.0 16.0 Regular $3,900

CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Minivan - 2WD)

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2003 KIA SEDONA

30 manufacturer communications from 20 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

ComponentBulletins
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE3
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY3
162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR2
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM2
036100 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE1
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER1
021600 SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING1
183000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES1
TSB_BOD055_R1 Sep 13, 2021
160000 STRUCTURE
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b
TSB_BOD055_R1 Sep 13, 2021
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b
PS539 Mar 2, 2018
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
PITSTOP - ENGINE COMPONENT RE-USE GUIDELINES - In general, parts and components removed during engine repairs should be considered serviceable, and should be thoroughly cleaned and transferred to the new engine.
TSB-GEN085R1 Jan 18, 2017
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various Kia models and are strictly intended for ?one time use.? Some example
TSB-GEN085R1 Jan 18, 2017
354000 EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various Kia models and are strictly intended for ?one time use.? Some example
TSB-GEN085 Nov 4, 2016
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners utilized in various Kia models are strictly intended for ?one time use?. Though not limited to the following, some examples are: axle shaft nuts with sta
TSB-GEN085 Nov 4, 2016
170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners utilized in various Kia models are strictly intended for ?one time use?. Though not limited to the following, some examples are: axle shaft nuts with sta
PS443 Apr 4, 2016
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
PS443 Apr 4, 2016
350000 EQUIPMENT
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
PS443 Apr 4, 2016
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
TSBTRA046 Dec 6, 2013
100000 POWER TRAIN
TSB: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE CORRECT AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUIDS THAT ARE REQUIRED FOR EACH KIA MODEL. REFER TO THE SHOP MANUAL ON KGIS FOR THE SPECIFIC KIA MODEL
TSB-068 May 1, 2010
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
KIA: INTERMITTENT MIL ON WITH NO FAULT CODE STORED; INFORMATION ABOUT DTC P1330. PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO CERTAIN VEHICLES. IN AFFECTED VEHICLES AN INTERMITTENT SHORT TO GROUND IN A CIRCUIT ONLY INTENDED FOR TESTING PURPOSES MAY C
TSB-044 Nov 1, 2009
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
KIA: ECM UPGRADE WITH TP SENSOR REPLACEMENT-MIL ON WITH DTC P2135/P0638. INFORMATION RELATED TO ECM SOFTWARE AND TP SENSOR UPGRADE ON SOME VEHICLES WITH 2.7L ENGINES WHICH MAY EXPERIENCE A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED WITH
TSB-044 Nov 1, 2009
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
KIA: ECM UPGRADE WITH TP SENSOR REPLACEMENT-MIL ON WITH DTC P2135/P0638. INFORMATION RELATED TO ECM SOFTWARE AND TP SENSOR UPGRADE ON SOME VEHICLES WITH 2.7L ENGINES WHICH MAY EXPERIENCE A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED WITH
TSB-048 Sep 1, 2009
162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
KIA: POWER SLIDING DOOR REMOE CONTROLLER MOTOR REPLACEMENT. ON SOME VEHICLES, A POWER SLIDING DOOR (PSD) MAY NOT OPEN WHEN USING AN OVERHEAD CONSOLE SWITCH, B PILLAR SWITCH OR REMOTE CONTROL BUTTON. *PE
TSB-048 Sep 1, 2009
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
KIA: POWER SLIDING DOOR REMOE CONTROLLER MOTOR REPLACEMENT. ON SOME VEHICLES, A POWER SLIDING DOOR (PSD) MAY NOT OPEN WHEN USING AN OVERHEAD CONSOLE SWITCH, B PILLAR SWITCH OR REMOTE CONTROL BUTTON. *PE
TSB-019 Oct 1, 2008
010000 STEERING
KIA: INCREASED STEERING EFFORT. IN AREAS WHERE HEAVY ROAD SALT USE OCCURS, INCREASED STEERING EFFORT AND NOISE (FROM STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT) FOR SOME SEDONA. *PE
KT-2008082201 Aug 28, 2008
125000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
KT-2008082201 Aug 28, 2008
123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
KT-2008082201 Aug 28, 2008
053000 PARKING BRAKE:INDICATOR LIGHT
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
013 May 1, 2008
063200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
SEDONA (GQ) CORRODED HEATER COOLANT PIPES - ON SOME BUILT FROM MAY 1, 2001, TO AUG. 30, 2005. *NJ UPDATED 6/17/08. *NJ
013 Apr 1, 2007
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR W/ 3.5L ENGINES. *KB
049 May 1, 2005
021600 SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN FOR THE REAR WHEEL BEARINGS THAT MAY HAVE WATER INTRUDING INTO THE BEARING AREA THROUGH THE JOINT BETWEEN THE HUBCAP AND HUB AND MAY CONTAMINATE THE GREASE OR DAMAGE THE REAR WHEEL BEARING(S).
008 Apr 1, 2005
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
AIR CONDITIONING (A/C) DIAGNOSIS AND PERFORMANCE TESTING. *TT
042 Mar 1, 2005
183000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
THROTTLE CABLE ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT RECALL CAMPAIGN. *TT
81 Jan 1, 2005
022000 SUSPENSION:REAR
REAR WHEEL BEARING TORQUE UPDATE. *TT
82 Jan 1, 2005
162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
IMPROVED CENTER SLIDING DOOR ROLLER ASSEMBLY. *TT
006 Dec 1, 2004
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
ENHANCED DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR FOR P0446/P2422. *TT
010 May 1, 2003
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
CHARGING SYSTEM CHANGES TO IMPROVE ALTERNATOR OUTPUT DURING HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURE SEVERE OPERATING CONDITIONS. *TT
032 May 1, 2003
036100 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
RECALL CAMPAIGN TO REPROGRAM THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) CONTROL MODULE. *TT

NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA SEDONA

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

DP24002 Opened: Feb 27, 2024 , Closed: Mar 5, 2024
DP, Closed , Model Year: 2016
3.3L Engine Loss of Motive Power (LOMP)
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a petition on February 20, 2024, requesting the opening of an investigation into an alleged defect of the "engine" on the following vehicle model stated by the petitioner: 2016 Kia Sedona vehicles equipped with the 3.3L V-Shaped GDI Lambda-II engine... Read more
EA08017 Opened: Aug 28, 2008 , Closed: Jul 1, 2009
EA, Closed , Model Year: 2002
STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT BINDING
ODIS ANALYSIS OF WARRANTY DATA SHOWS THAT THE ALLEGED DEFECT HAS OCCURRED AT A RELATIVELY HIGH FREQUENCY IN SALT-BELT STATES (5.9 PERCENT).HOWEVER, THE TESTS CONDUCTED BY ODI AND KIA HAVE SHOWN THAT THE ALLEGED DEFECT HAS A MINIMAL EFFECT ON STEERING EFFORTS.IN ADDITION, ODI INTERVIEWS OF OWNERS WHO... Read more
PE08033 Opened: Apr 28, 2008 , Closed: Aug 28, 2008
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2002
STEERING BINDING
ON APRIL 28, 2008, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED PRELIMINARY EVALUATION PE08-033 TO INVESTIGATE COMPLAINTS ALLEGING STEERING BINDING IN MODEL YEAR 2002 THROUGH 2004 KIA SEDONA MINIVANS.KIA'S RESPONSE TO ODI'S REQUEST FOR INFORMATION IN PE08-033 INDICATED THAT CONCERNS WITH BINDING... Read more
PE05035 Opened: Jun 28, 2005 , Closed: Oct 19, 2005
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2003
ELECTRICAL FIRE
BY LETTER DATED OCTOBER 4, 2005, KIA NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT IS CONDUCTING A SAFETY RECALL (NHTSA RECALL NO. 05V463) INVOLVING ALL MODEL YEAR (MY) 2002, 2003 KIA SEDONA EX VEHICLES AND CERTAIN MY 2004 KIA SEDONA EX VEHICLES.KIA?S RECALL COVERS 74,276 VEHICLES.KIA REPORTS THAT FIRES WERE CAUSED B... Read more
PE04067 Opened: Sep 24, 2004 , Closed: Jan 27, 2005
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2002
THROTTLE CABLE BINDING
KIA PROVIDED INFORMATION DESCRIBING A WATER ENTRY POINT AT THE RUBBER SEALING BOOT LOCATED AT THE THROTTLE BODY END OF THE THROTTLE CABLE, ADVISING THAT WATER COULD ENTER THE CABLE SHEATH DURING NORMAL VEHICLE OPERATION.IN LOW TEMPERATURES, THE WATER FREEZES AND MAY IMPEDE THE MOVEMENT OF THE THROTT... Read more

KIA SEDONA - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the KIA SEDONA across all model years (2002, 2020).

69 Total Recalls
3,391 Total Complaints
5 Investigations
181 Reported Crashes
163 Reported Fires
13 Reported Deaths

KIA SEDONA - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year Recalls Complaints
2021 0 15 View
2020 1 26 View
2019 2 45 View
2018 3 63 View
2017 4 180 View
2016 4 368 View
2015 3 178 View
2014 1 54 View
2013 1 0 View
2012 5 146 View
2011 6 88 View
2010 5 49 View
2009 5 75 View
2008 5 246 View
2007 6 234 View
2006 7 579 View
2005 2 272 View
2004 2 226 View
2003 (current) 4 214
2002 3 328 View

Other KIA Models

Model Recalls Complaints
SORENTO 188 13,593 View
SPORTAGE 165 6,601 View
OPTIMA 100 10,128 View
TELLURIDE 70 2,186 View
SOUL 66 7,233 View
SOUL EV 62 50 View
SORENTO HYBRID 62 159 View
FORTE 56 3,494 View