🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Carnival Sedona

Model Years Covered:

2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Chassis Code:

GQ (First Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Minivan / MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)

Target Audience:

Families, individuals requiring versatile passenger and cargo space, commercial use.

Key Competitors:

Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country, Ford Windstar.

Vehicle Type:

Front-engine, front-wheel drive, 7 or 8 passenger minivan.

Design Philosophy:

Practicality, spaciousness, comfort, and family-oriented features.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (Likely PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (mechanical), emission control systems.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control module (ECM) operation, sensor diagnostics, wiring diagrams.

Transmission Mechanical:

Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, valve body, internal components, gearsets, clutch packs, bands, cooling lines.

Transmission Electrical:

Transmission Control Module (TCM) operation, shift solenoids, speed sensors, position sensors, transmission wiring diagrams.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, drive shafts, differential.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), brake hydraulics, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link or independent), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic), steering gear, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection, structural repair.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, components, refrigerant charging, troubleshooting, cabin air filter replacement.

Electrical Systems:

Lighting systems (headlamps, taillamps, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, horn, wiper system, fuse box layouts, relay functions, body control module (BCM) diagnostics.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system components and diagnostics, seat belt mechanisms, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) wiring.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, brake pad inspection, tire rotation.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides for various systems (engine, transmission, brakes, electrical).

Component Replacement:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major and minor components across all covered systems.

Rebuilding Procedures:

Disassembly and reassembly instructions for engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical units.

Technical Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, pressures, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameters.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring schematics for all electrical systems, including component location and wire routing.

Depth:

Comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls and complex electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for easy navigation and information retrieval.

Digital Quality:

High-resolution scans or professionally formatted digital documents, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Type:

V6 (Naturally Aspirated)

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3497 cc)

Engine Name:

Kia/Hyundai V6 (G6CU or similar)

Bore X Stroke:

96.0 mm x 81.0 mm (approximate)

Horsepower:

Approximately 195-200 hp @ 5500 rpm (depending on specific model year and market).

Torque:

Approximately 215-220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (depending on specific model year and market).

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Optional Transmission:

Not applicable for this generation and model.

Transmission Control:

Electronically controlled with adaptive shift logic.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia Genuine ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or equivalent SP-III specification.

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7.0-7.5 liters (dry fill).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4840-4920 mm (190.5-193.7 inches), varies slightly by year/trim.

Width:

Approx. 1990 mm (78.3 inches).

Height:

Approx. 1750-1760 mm (68.9-69.3 inches).

Wheelbase:

Approx. 3020 mm (118.9 inches).

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 150 mm (5.9 inches).

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1950-2100 kg (4300-4630 lbs), varies by trim and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 2600-2700 kg (5730-5950 lbs).

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 300-500 liters (10-18 cu ft).

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 1000-1500 liters (35-53 cu ft).

Cargo Volume Max With Seats Folded:

Approx. 2500-3000 liters (88-106 cu ft).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4-Star (Driver) / 4-Star (Passenger) - typical for 2002 model year, actual ratings may vary by specific year and testing protocols.

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

4-Star (Front Seat) / 4-Star (Rear Seat) - typical for 2002 model year.

IIHS Offset Frontal Rating:

Good (for models tested)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Traction Control:

Optional or standard on higher trims for some model years.

Airbags:

Standard dual front airbags. Side curtain airbags may be optional or standard on higher trims.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts for all seating positions, including pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player. Optional cassette player or premium sound systems with more speakers.

Display:

Basic dashboard display for audio, climate control, and vehicle status. No integrated navigation or complex infotainment screens typical of modern vehicles.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control.

Aux Input:

Rare for this era, typically no standard AUX or USB inputs. Aftermarket solutions would be necessary.

Bluetooth:

Not available from the factory for these model years. Aftermarket installations possible.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km), depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), depending on usage and manufacturer recommendation.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles (48,000 to 80,000 km).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 API SM or higher.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.0-5.5 liters (5.3-5.8 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific Kia coolant part number.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to owner's manual; often Dexron III or equivalent ATF is used.

Engine Mounts:

Premature wear of engine mounts leading to vibration and noise, especially at idle.

Transmission Shifting:

Intermittent rough shifts or delayed engagement, potentially due to internal wear or solenoid issues.

HVAC Blower Motor:

Blower motor failure leading to no cabin air circulation.

Suspension Components:

Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends, leading to steering looseness and tire wear.

Power Window Motors:

Failure of power window regulator or motor mechanisms.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Origin:

South Korea

Generation Introduction:

The Kia Carnival (and its rebadged North American version, the Sedona) was first introduced globally in 1998, with the first generation (GQ) spanning from 1998 to 2005. The model years covered in this manual represent the later part of this first generation, often featuring updates and refinements.

Design Updates 2002-2005:

While the core platform remained the same, minor styling refreshes, interior trim updates, and potential powertrain optimizations were introduced during these years.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily South Korea (Hwaseong Plant), with some assembly potentially occurring in other global locations depending on market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Common Awards:

While not a recipient of major "Car of the Year" awards, the Sedona was generally regarded as a competent and value-oriented minivan. Its strengths lay in its spacious interior and affordability compared to some competitors.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied. While some components were robust, common issues like those listed under 'known_issues' could impact overall long-term reliability if not addressed.