Owners have filed 57 complaints
about the 2003 KIA Sedona EX with NHTSA between 2006 and 2018.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 of 3 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 45
Against the median year of the KIA Sedona EX. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
28.1% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 70
41% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade:
A
B
C
D
F
ungraded
What breaks on a 2003 KIA Sedona EX
Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.
Electrical System
915.8%
0 crashes, 6 fires · median 61,725 mi
Engine & Cooling
915.8%
0 crashes, 1 fires · median 55,000 mi
Brakes
712.3%
Median failure at 18,000 miles
Body & Structure
610.5%
Median failure at 17,000 miles
Steering
58.8%
Median failure at 67,132 miles
Transmission & Drivetrain
58.8%
Median failure at 30,000 miles
Wheels
35.3%
Median failure at 78,005 miles
Suspension
35.3%
Median failure at 72,000 miles
Equipment & Accessories
23.5%
Median failure at 32,000 miles
Doors, Latches & Locks
23.5%
Median failure at 41,000 miles
Seats
23.5%
0 crashes, 2 fires · median 24,500 mi
Airbags
23.5%
2 crashes, 0 fires · median 74,980 mi
Seat Belts
11.8%
Median failure at 17,000 miles
Fuel & Propulsion
11.8%
Median failure at 15,000 miles
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
36.1%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
1734.7%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
510.2%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
1428.6%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
48.2%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
48.2%
150,000+ miles
24.1%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Apr 2006peak 6Dec 2018
NHTSA investigations into the 2003 KIA Sedona EX
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
EA08017Opened 28 Aug 2008Closed 1 Jul 2009STEERING
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 EXPERIENCED THE ALLEGED DEFECT SHOWED THAT IN MOST CASES THE PROBLEM WAS PRECEDED BY MONTHS OR YEARS OF NOISE OR A GRADUAL INCREASE IN STEERING EFFORTS AND WAS MORE OF A NUISANCE CONCERN. THERE HAS BEEN ONE ALLEGATION OF A MINOR CRASH RELATED TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT, INVOLVING A MY 2003 KIA SEDONA WI...
PE08033Opened 28 Apr 2008Closed 28 Aug 2008STEERING
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 OF THE STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT WERE FIRST IDENTIFIED AND INVESTIGATED IN AUGUST 2002, IN VEHICLES SOLD IN INDONESIA.THIS INVESTIGATION RESULTED IN THE ADDITION OF A STIFFENING RIB TO THE BEARING CAP SEAL.IN JUNE 2003, KIA AGAIN INVESTIGATED OWNER COMPLAINTS OF STEERING NOISE AND HIGHER THAN NOR...
Recalls on the 2003 KIA Sedona EX
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
05V463000
SEATS
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH POWER SEATS, THE WIRING UNDER THE FRONT SEATS COULD BE MISROUTED, ALLOWING CONTACT WITH METAL SEAT COMPONENTS.
Risk: THIS CONTACT COULD EVENTUALLY RESULT IN A SHORT CIRCUIT CONDITION THAT MAY RESULT IN A FIRE IN THE JUNCTION BOX AREA OF THE VEHICLE.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 99,000 milesJensen Beach, FLCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 KIA SEDONA EX. WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN AT 5 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE REAR ENDED THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE SPUN OUT OF CONTROL. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED BY THE HIGHWAY PATROL AND SHERIFF. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BRUISING FROM THE SEAT BELT STRAP ACROSS THE CHEST, AND BRUISING ACROSS THE WAISTLINE AND BACK. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS RECEIVED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A POLICE HOLDING STATION AND LATER TO A BODY SHOP. THE VEHICLE WAS DECLARED TOTALED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 99,000. UPDATED 02/03/17*LJ
NHTSA complaint #10908243 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 125,000 milesVero Beach, FLFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
WE HAVE A DETACHED GARAGE, AT 4:00 AM OUR DOG WOKE US UP TO HER BARKING. SHE COULD HEAR THE VAN HORN BLOWING. WHEN I TOOK HER OUT, I SAW THE VAN LIGHTS FLASHING AND THE HORN WAS BLOWING. I COULD NOT STOP THE HORN WITH THE KEYLESS REMOTE. I WOKE UP MY HUSBAND, WHEN HE OPENED THE DOOR THE DASHBOARD WAS ALL MELTED, WINDSHIELD WAS CRACKED, THE A/C UNIT GOING UP THE DRIVER'S DOOR WAS ALL MELTED. HE FINALLY FOUND A PLACE TO OPEN THE HOOD TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY. THE MECHANISM TO OPEN THE HOOD WAS ALL MELTED AS WELL. THE VAN WAS TOTALED AND THE INSURANCE COMPANY SENT US $3900. THE VAN WAS IS GREAT SHAPE FOR BEING 11 YEARS OLD. WE HAD THE VAN SERVICED AS SCHEDULED AND IT WAS ALWAYS KEPT IN THE GARAGE. WE BOUGHT THE VAN NEW AND STILL LIVE IN THE SAME HOUSE AS WHEN WE BOUGHT IT. SO WE SHOULD HAVE RECEIVED ANY RECALLS ON THE VAN. WE WANTED TO CHECK AND SEE IF THERE WERE ANY CLASS ACTION LAWSUITS PENDING. WHEN WE RAN A SEARCH ON OTHERS HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM, THERE WERE SEVERAL LISTED. SOME JUST AS OURS WAS, DURING THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT. I DON'T HAVE THE VIN AT THIS TIME BUT I CAN FIND IT AT HOME IN OUR INSURANCE CLAIM. ANY INFORMATION YOU CAN GIVE US IS GREATLY APPRECIATED.
NHTSA complaint #10702907 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 108,000 milesCherryville, KSFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA EX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A RESIDENTIAL DRIVEWAY WHEN HE HEARD THE ANTI-THEFT ALARM SOUNDING. THE CONTACT WAS INSIDE HIS HOME AND OBSERVED THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW GLOWING FROM AFAR. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION HE FOUND THAT THE VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 108,000.
NHTSA complaint #10471289 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 105,000 milesBaltic, CTFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ON 12/26/2011 WE WENT OUT TO THE VAN (2003 KIA SEDONA) AND THE CAR WOULDN'T START. THE WHOLE VAN SMELLED LIKE MELTED PLASTIC. I LOOKED AT THE FUSE BOX AND THE ENTIRE THING WAS MELTED ALONG WITH THE TRIM AND CARPET. I HAVE PICTURES AND A MOVIE TO SHOW THE EXTENT OF THE DAMAGE. KIA OF PUTNAM CONNECTICUT REFUSED RESPONSIBILITY. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. WE WERE NOT EVEN DRIVING THE CAR WHEN IT HAPPENED THE ISSUE HAPPENED OVERNIGHT. IF PICTURES ARE REQUESTED PLEASE EMAIL ME AT [XXX] THANK YOU. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #10441440 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wapakoneta, OHFire
SEATS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA EX. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE RESIDENCE GARAGE AND THE CONTACT NOTICED THE FRONT INTERIOR AND ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL MELTED SEVERELY. THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL MELTED AND WAS DISTORTED TO THE POINT THAT THE STRUCTURE AND GAUGES WERE NOT VISIBLE. THERE WAS A STRONG ODOR OF BURNING WIRE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED FROM THE GARAGE TO A NEARBY LOCATION. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS NOT CALLED DUE TO THE FACT THAT THERE WAS NO SMOKE PRESENT OR FLAMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED SEVERAL TIMES IN WHICH THEY ADVISED THE CONTACT TO TOW THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE. THE CONTACT WAS DISPLEASED TO KNOW THERE WAS NO RESOLUTION OR ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY THE MANUFACTURER. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. UPDATED 09/24/10. *LJ ACCORDING TO THE CONSUMER, A RECALL WAS ISSUED REGARDING THE SEATS. UPDATED 09/27/10
NHTSA complaint #10343622 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wapakoneta, OHFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA EX. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE RESIDENCE GARAGE AND THE CONTACT NOTICED THE FRONT INTERIOR AND ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL MELTED SEVERELY. THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL MELTED AND WAS DISTORTED TO THE POINT THAT THE STRUCTURE AND GAUGES WERE NOT VISIBLE. THERE WAS A STRONG ODOR OF BURNING WIRE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED FROM THE GARAGE TO A NEARBY LOCATION. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS NOT CALLED DUE TO THE FACT THAT THERE WAS NO SMOKE PRESENT OR FLAMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED SEVERAL TIMES IN WHICH THEY ADVISED THE CONTACT TO TOW THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE. THE CONTACT WAS DISPLEASED TO KNOW THERE WAS NO RESOLUTION OR ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY THE MANUFACTURER. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. UPDATED 09/24/10. *LJ ACCORDING TO THE CONSUMER, A RECALL WAS ISSUED REGARDING THE SEATS. UPDATED 09/27/10
NHTSA complaint #10343622 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 155,000 milesSusanville, CA
WHEELS
THE BREAKS WERE CHANGED DUE TO GRINDING COM TO FIND OUT THERE WAS 1BOLT ON THE BREAK CALIBERS PUT THEM ON AND IT STILL GRINDS AND CAN NOT STOP
NHTSA complaint #11157157 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 155,000 milesSusanville, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
THE BREAKS WERE CHANGED DUE TO GRINDING COM TO FIND OUT THERE WAS 1BOLT ON THE BREAK CALIBERS PUT THEM ON AND IT STILL GRINDS AND CAN NOT STOP
NHTSA complaint #11157157 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mchenry, IL
STEERING
THERE BEEN WHINING NOISE DURING ACCELERATING AND DE-ACCELERATE SPEED, I HAD SOMEONE LOOK AND THOUGHT I WAS BRAKING SYSTEM. YESTERDAY MY SON WAS DRIVING IT AND TURNING RIGHT AND WE HEARD A POP, AND THE WHOLE STEERING WENT OUT. WE WERE ALMOST KILLED ON 134, HE ABLE BACK IT UP. HAD SOMEONE ELSE LOOKS AT IT RACK AND PINION. THERE BEEN MSNY CLAIMS AND NO RECALL WHY
NHTSA complaint #11097709 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 55,000 milesCharleston, SC
POWER TRAIN
I HAVE A 2003 KIA SEDONA. I HAVE HAD TO HAVE THE ALTERNATOR REPLACED 2 TIMES IN A MONTHS TIME. THE DEALERSHIP IS SAYING NOW THAT THE CONNECTOR TO THE FAN HAS MELTED BECAUSE THE FAN IS PULLING TOO MUCH VOLTAGE. BUT FROM WHAT I UNDERSTAND FROM OTHERS, THE ISSUE IS THE CONNECTOR AND NOT THE FAN? I HOPE THEY ARE ABLE TO FIND OUT WHAT KEEPS CAUSING THESE ISSUES AND CAN FIX THIS ASAP! I AM SICK OF SPENDING MY NIGHTS STRANDED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD! NOT TO MENTION THE FINANCIAL STRAIN IT IS PLACING ON MY FAMILY. NOW I KNOW WHY THE PREVIOUS OWNER TRADED IN THIS JUNK WITH ONLY 53,000 MILES ON IT!
NHTSA complaint #10909962 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 55,000 milesCharleston, SC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I HAVE A 2003 KIA SEDONA. I HAVE HAD TO HAVE THE ALTERNATOR REPLACED 2 TIMES IN A MONTHS TIME. THE DEALERSHIP IS SAYING NOW THAT THE CONNECTOR TO THE FAN HAS MELTED BECAUSE THE FAN IS PULLING TOO MUCH VOLTAGE. BUT FROM WHAT I UNDERSTAND FROM OTHERS, THE ISSUE IS THE CONNECTOR AND NOT THE FAN? I HOPE THEY ARE ABLE TO FIND OUT WHAT KEEPS CAUSING THESE ISSUES AND CAN FIX THIS ASAP! I AM SICK OF SPENDING MY NIGHTS STRANDED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD! NOT TO MENTION THE FINANCIAL STRAIN IT IS PLACING ON MY FAMILY. NOW I KNOW WHY THE PREVIOUS OWNER TRADED IN THIS JUNK WITH ONLY 53,000 MILES ON IT!
NHTSA complaint #10909962 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 55,000 milesCharleston, SC
ENGINE
I HAVE A 2003 KIA SEDONA. I HAVE HAD TO HAVE THE ALTERNATOR REPLACED 2 TIMES IN A MONTHS TIME. THE DEALERSHIP IS SAYING NOW THAT THE CONNECTOR TO THE FAN HAS MELTED BECAUSE THE FAN IS PULLING TOO MUCH VOLTAGE. BUT FROM WHAT I UNDERSTAND FROM OTHERS, THE ISSUE IS THE CONNECTOR AND NOT THE FAN? I HOPE THEY ARE ABLE TO FIND OUT WHAT KEEPS CAUSING THESE ISSUES AND CAN FIX THIS ASAP! I AM SICK OF SPENDING MY NIGHTS STRANDED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD! NOT TO MENTION THE FINANCIAL STRAIN IT IS PLACING ON MY FAMILY. NOW I KNOW WHY THE PREVIOUS OWNER TRADED IN THIS JUNK WITH ONLY 53,000 MILES ON IT!
NHTSA complaint #10909962 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 99,000 milesJensen Beach, FLCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 KIA SEDONA EX. WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN AT 5 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE REAR ENDED THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE SPUN OUT OF CONTROL. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED BY THE HIGHWAY PATROL AND SHERIFF. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BRUISING FROM THE SEAT BELT STRAP ACROSS THE CHEST, AND BRUISING ACROSS THE WAISTLINE AND BACK. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS RECEIVED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A POLICE HOLDING STATION AND LATER TO A BODY SHOP. THE VEHICLE WAS DECLARED TOTALED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 99,000. UPDATED 02/03/17*LJ
NHTSA complaint #10908243 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 125,000 milesVero Beach, FLFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
WE HAVE A DETACHED GARAGE, AT 4:00 AM OUR DOG WOKE US UP TO HER BARKING. SHE COULD HEAR THE VAN HORN BLOWING. WHEN I TOOK HER OUT, I SAW THE VAN LIGHTS FLASHING AND THE HORN WAS BLOWING. I COULD NOT STOP THE HORN WITH THE KEYLESS REMOTE. I WOKE UP MY HUSBAND, WHEN HE OPENED THE DOOR THE DASHBOARD WAS ALL MELTED, WINDSHIELD WAS CRACKED, THE A/C UNIT GOING UP THE DRIVER'S DOOR WAS ALL MELTED. HE FINALLY FOUND A PLACE TO OPEN THE HOOD TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY. THE MECHANISM TO OPEN THE HOOD WAS ALL MELTED AS WELL. THE VAN WAS TOTALED AND THE INSURANCE COMPANY SENT US $3900. THE VAN WAS IS GREAT SHAPE FOR BEING 11 YEARS OLD. WE HAD THE VAN SERVICED AS SCHEDULED AND IT WAS ALWAYS KEPT IN THE GARAGE. WE BOUGHT THE VAN NEW AND STILL LIVE IN THE SAME HOUSE AS WHEN WE BOUGHT IT. SO WE SHOULD HAVE RECEIVED ANY RECALLS ON THE VAN. WE WANTED TO CHECK AND SEE IF THERE WERE ANY CLASS ACTION LAWSUITS PENDING. WHEN WE RAN A SEARCH ON OTHERS HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM, THERE WERE SEVERAL LISTED. SOME JUST AS OURS WAS, DURING THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT. I DON'T HAVE THE VIN AT THIS TIME BUT I CAN FIND IT AT HOME IN OUR INSURANCE CLAIM. ANY INFORMATION YOU CAN GIVE US IS GREATLY APPRECIATED.
NHTSA complaint #10702907 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 68,451 milesEdmonds,, WA
WHEELS
1)HAPPENED TWICE: CAR STOPPED SUDDENLY AFTER A BEEPING NOISE AND ENGINE LIGHT WENT ON BRIEFLY. THERMOSTAT, THERMOSTAT GASKET HAD TO REPLACED TWICE IN 7 MONTHS (REPAIRS DONE ON 5/11/10 AND 12/13/2010). NOTE: ENGINE FLUSH 11/24/09; COOLING SYSTEM PRESSURE TESTED 2/22/10, RADIATOR FLUSHES 6/8/09 AND 7/30/10 IN ADDITION TO LOF EVERY 3,000 MILES) COOLING SYSTEM /CORROSION ISSUES/COOLING SYSTEM CORROSION CONTROL KIT INSTALLED: 12/30/05 & 4/8/08, 2) CAR CAREENING AND TIPPING WHEN STEERING HARD TO RIGHT: FRONT HUB AND WHEEL BEARING, SEAL HAD TO BE REPLACED AS WELL - 3 TIMES (1/2/09; 12/13/10, 8/1/2011). 3) CAR LOST POWER ON FREEWAY DUE TO BAD ALTERNATOR WHICH DISCHARGED BATTERY 6/23/06.
NHTSA complaint #10485365 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 68,451 milesEdmonds,, WA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1)HAPPENED TWICE: CAR STOPPED SUDDENLY AFTER A BEEPING NOISE AND ENGINE LIGHT WENT ON BRIEFLY. THERMOSTAT, THERMOSTAT GASKET HAD TO REPLACED TWICE IN 7 MONTHS (REPAIRS DONE ON 5/11/10 AND 12/13/2010). NOTE: ENGINE FLUSH 11/24/09; COOLING SYSTEM PRESSURE TESTED 2/22/10, RADIATOR FLUSHES 6/8/09 AND 7/30/10 IN ADDITION TO LOF EVERY 3,000 MILES) COOLING SYSTEM /CORROSION ISSUES/COOLING SYSTEM CORROSION CONTROL KIT INSTALLED: 12/30/05 & 4/8/08, 2) CAR CAREENING AND TIPPING WHEN STEERING HARD TO RIGHT: FRONT HUB AND WHEEL BEARING, SEAL HAD TO BE REPLACED AS WELL - 3 TIMES (1/2/09; 12/13/10, 8/1/2011). 3) CAR LOST POWER ON FREEWAY DUE TO BAD ALTERNATOR WHICH DISCHARGED BATTERY 6/23/06.
NHTSA complaint #10485365 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 68,451 milesEdmonds,, WA
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
1)HAPPENED TWICE: CAR STOPPED SUDDENLY AFTER A BEEPING NOISE AND ENGINE LIGHT WENT ON BRIEFLY. THERMOSTAT, THERMOSTAT GASKET HAD TO REPLACED TWICE IN 7 MONTHS (REPAIRS DONE ON 5/11/10 AND 12/13/2010). NOTE: ENGINE FLUSH 11/24/09; COOLING SYSTEM PRESSURE TESTED 2/22/10, RADIATOR FLUSHES 6/8/09 AND 7/30/10 IN ADDITION TO LOF EVERY 3,000 MILES) COOLING SYSTEM /CORROSION ISSUES/COOLING SYSTEM CORROSION CONTROL KIT INSTALLED: 12/30/05 & 4/8/08, 2) CAR CAREENING AND TIPPING WHEN STEERING HARD TO RIGHT: FRONT HUB AND WHEEL BEARING, SEAL HAD TO BE REPLACED AS WELL - 3 TIMES (1/2/09; 12/13/10, 8/1/2011). 3) CAR LOST POWER ON FREEWAY DUE TO BAD ALTERNATOR WHICH DISCHARGED BATTERY 6/23/06.
NHTSA complaint #10485365 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 68,451 milesEdmonds,, WA
ENGINE
1)HAPPENED TWICE: CAR STOPPED SUDDENLY AFTER A BEEPING NOISE AND ENGINE LIGHT WENT ON BRIEFLY. THERMOSTAT, THERMOSTAT GASKET HAD TO REPLACED TWICE IN 7 MONTHS (REPAIRS DONE ON 5/11/10 AND 12/13/2010). NOTE: ENGINE FLUSH 11/24/09; COOLING SYSTEM PRESSURE TESTED 2/22/10, RADIATOR FLUSHES 6/8/09 AND 7/30/10 IN ADDITION TO LOF EVERY 3,000 MILES) COOLING SYSTEM /CORROSION ISSUES/COOLING SYSTEM CORROSION CONTROL KIT INSTALLED: 12/30/05 & 4/8/08, 2) CAR CAREENING AND TIPPING WHEN STEERING HARD TO RIGHT: FRONT HUB AND WHEEL BEARING, SEAL HAD TO BE REPLACED AS WELL - 3 TIMES (1/2/09; 12/13/10, 8/1/2011). 3) CAR LOST POWER ON FREEWAY DUE TO BAD ALTERNATOR WHICH DISCHARGED BATTERY 6/23/06.
NHTSA complaint #10485365 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 108,000 milesCherryville, KSFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA EX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A RESIDENTIAL DRIVEWAY WHEN HE HEARD THE ANTI-THEFT ALARM SOUNDING. THE CONTACT WAS INSIDE HIS HOME AND OBSERVED THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW GLOWING FROM AFAR. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION HE FOUND THAT THE VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 108,000.
NHTSA complaint #10471289 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Baltimore, MD
STRUCTURE:BODY
MY KIA SEDONA 2003 EX WAS A GREAT VEHICLE , UNTIL 12/20/2011 WHEN THE DOOR HANDLE ON THE SLIDING SIDE DOOR BEHIND THE DRIVER BROKE OFF IN MY HAND WHEN I OPENED IT. THIS WAS A HUGE SURPRISE TO ME BECAUSE I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT CAME OFF IN MY HAND. THEN ON 12/31/2011 , I OPENED THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT DOOR AND THE SCREW CAME OUT AND HIT THE GROUND AND I COULD NOT FIND IT.WHAT GOING ON , I'VE OWNED 4 CARS AND NONE OF THEM HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE DOOR HANDLES. THEN THE SILVER BUMPER ON THE FRONT AND THE REAR IS FADING TERRIBLY, THIS A WONDERFUL VEHICLE BUT, I HAVE NEVER OWNED A CAR THAT THE DOOR HANDLES FELL OFF . NOW IT IS VERY INCONVENIENT FOR ME TO OPEN THESE 2 DOORS. THIS CAR HAS NO CHILDREN PLAYING ON THE DOORS BECAUSE I DON'T HAVE ANY CHILDREN , MOST OF THE TIME ITS JUST ME ....IS THERE ANY REMEDY FOR THIS PROBLEM. I'M HOPING THAT THEIR IS SOMETHING YOU CAN DO TO HELP ME WITH THIS MATTER.... I WOULD LIKE TO THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR TIME CONCERNING THIS MATTER....
NHTSA complaint #10442840 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 105,000 milesBaltic, CTFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ON 12/26/2011 WE WENT OUT TO THE VAN (2003 KIA SEDONA) AND THE CAR WOULDN'T START. THE WHOLE VAN SMELLED LIKE MELTED PLASTIC. I LOOKED AT THE FUSE BOX AND THE ENTIRE THING WAS MELTED ALONG WITH THE TRIM AND CARPET. I HAVE PICTURES AND A MOVIE TO SHOW THE EXTENT OF THE DAMAGE. KIA OF PUTNAM CONNECTICUT REFUSED RESPONSIBILITY. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. WE WERE NOT EVEN DRIVING THE CAR WHEN IT HAPPENED THE ISSUE HAPPENED OVERNIGHT. IF PICTURES ARE REQUESTED PLEASE EMAIL ME AT [XXX] THANK YOU. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #10441440 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kansas City, KS
STEERING
ON MY 2003 KIA SEDONA, I HAVE REPLACED OVER 3 WHEEL BEARINGS AND HAVE ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE THE STEERING HAS LOCKED UP WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS.
NHTSA complaint #10395180 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kansas City, KS
SUSPENSION
ON MY 2003 KIA SEDONA, I HAVE REPLACED OVER 3 WHEEL BEARINGS AND HAVE ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE THE STEERING HAS LOCKED UP WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS.
NHTSA complaint #10395180 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 85,000 milesRacine, WI
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING FLUIDS ABNORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHO ADVISED THAT THE REAR COOLING PIPES WERE CORRODED AND LEAKING ANTI-FREEZE. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS AND OFFERED NO ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 85,000. UPDATED 03/30/11
NHTSA complaint #10389788 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wapakoneta, OHFire
SEATS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA EX. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE RESIDENCE GARAGE AND THE CONTACT NOTICED THE FRONT INTERIOR AND ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL MELTED SEVERELY. THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL MELTED AND WAS DISTORTED TO THE POINT THAT THE STRUCTURE AND GAUGES WERE NOT VISIBLE. THERE WAS A STRONG ODOR OF BURNING WIRE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED FROM THE GARAGE TO A NEARBY LOCATION. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS NOT CALLED DUE TO THE FACT THAT THERE WAS NO SMOKE PRESENT OR FLAMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED SEVERAL TIMES IN WHICH THEY ADVISED THE CONTACT TO TOW THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE. THE CONTACT WAS DISPLEASED TO KNOW THERE WAS NO RESOLUTION OR ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY THE MANUFACTURER. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. UPDATED 09/24/10. *LJ ACCORDING TO THE CONSUMER, A RECALL WAS ISSUED REGARDING THE SEATS. UPDATED 09/27/10
NHTSA complaint #10343622 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wapakoneta, OHFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA EX. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE RESIDENCE GARAGE AND THE CONTACT NOTICED THE FRONT INTERIOR AND ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL MELTED SEVERELY. THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL MELTED AND WAS DISTORTED TO THE POINT THAT THE STRUCTURE AND GAUGES WERE NOT VISIBLE. THERE WAS A STRONG ODOR OF BURNING WIRE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED FROM THE GARAGE TO A NEARBY LOCATION. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS NOT CALLED DUE TO THE FACT THAT THERE WAS NO SMOKE PRESENT OR FLAMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED SEVERAL TIMES IN WHICH THEY ADVISED THE CONTACT TO TOW THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE. THE CONTACT WAS DISPLEASED TO KNOW THERE WAS NO RESOLUTION OR ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY THE MANUFACTURER. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. UPDATED 09/24/10. *LJ ACCORDING TO THE CONSUMER, A RECALL WAS ISSUED REGARDING THE SEATS. UPDATED 09/27/10
NHTSA complaint #10343622 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 67,000 milesIndianapolis, IN
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
THE ICV VALVE CLIP IN MY 2003 KIA SEDONA CAME LOOSE AND DAMAGED THE ENGINE. KIA RECALLED THE SAME CLIP IN ALL SORENTOS FROM 2003-2005. MY VEHICLE AS LESS THAN 70,000 MILES. THE ENGINE MADE A LOUD NOISE AND STALLED AS I WAS DRIVING. LUCKILY I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND NOT CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. KIA DOES NOT BELIEVE THIS IS A SERIOUS ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #10342082 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 67,000 milesIndianapolis, IN
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE
THE ICV VALVE CLIP IN MY 2003 KIA SEDONA CAME LOOSE AND DAMAGED THE ENGINE. KIA RECALLED THE SAME CLIP IN ALL SORENTOS FROM 2003-2005. MY VEHICLE AS LESS THAN 70,000 MILES. THE ENGINE MADE A LOUD NOISE AND STALLED AS I WAS DRIVING. LUCKILY I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND NOT CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. KIA DOES NOT BELIEVE THIS IS A SERIOUS ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #10342082 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,000 milesAntelope, CA
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
2003 KIA SEDONA EX PASSENGER SIDE SLIDING REAR DOOR OUTSIDE HANDLE BROKE. CAR ONLY HAS 65,000 MILES AND IS GARAGE KEPT. I WAS UNABLE TO TAKE MY CHILD OUT OF THE CAR SEAT PROMPTLY, AND HAD TO USE THE OTHER SLIDING DOOR, WHICH WAS IN THE LINE OF TRAFFIC. I FOUND OUT EVEN WITH THE EXTENDED WARRANTY I PURCHASED. ONCE THE HANDLE WAS REMOVED FROM VAN, I FOUND OUT IT WAS MADE PLASTIC, NO WONDER IT BROKE, IT NEEDS TO BE MADE OF STRONGER MATERIAL, LIKE METAL.
NHTSA complaint #10285699 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,000 milesAntelope, CA
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
2003 KIA SEDONA EX PASSENGER SIDE SLIDING REAR DOOR OUTSIDE HANDLE BROKE. CAR ONLY HAS 65,000 MILES AND IS GARAGE KEPT. I WAS UNABLE TO TAKE MY CHILD OUT OF THE CAR SEAT PROMPTLY, AND HAD TO USE THE OTHER SLIDING DOOR, WHICH WAS IN THE LINE OF TRAFFIC. I FOUND OUT EVEN WITH THE EXTENDED WARRANTY I PURCHASED. ONCE THE HANDLE WAS REMOVED FROM VAN, I FOUND OUT IT WAS MADE PLASTIC, NO WONDER IT BROKE, IT NEEDS TO BE MADE OF STRONGER MATERIAL, LIKE METAL.
NHTSA complaint #10285699 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 72,000 milesGrand Haven, MI
SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SEDONA EX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING SHE WOULD HEAR A LOUD NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, AND THE TECHNICIAN REPLACED THE WHEEL BEARINGS. AFTER THE REPAIR THE PASSENGER FRONT TIRE EXPLODED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL REPAIR FACILITY FOR INSPECTION. UPON INSPECTION A MECHANIC CONCLUDED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED AN ALIGNMENT. HOWEVER, HE ADDED THAT BECAUSE THE WHEEL BEARINGS WERE NOT ONLY DEFECTIVE, THEY WERE IMPROPERLY INSTALLED, THEREFORE NO REPAIRS WERE MADE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 72,000.
NHTSA complaint #10284874 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.