Target Audience:
Family vehicle, versatile people mover
Competitors 2003:
Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Town & Country, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture
Strengths 2003:
Spacious interior, competitive pricing, flexible seating configurations
Manual Advantage:
Provides detailed factory-level information for accurate and efficient repairs, superior to generic online guides.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU), cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (transaxle), torque converter, differential, drive shafts, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and indicators, body electrical (wiper/washer, horn, power accessories), audio system, climate control system wiring
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, roof systems, body sealing
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, refrigerant system, components
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, calibrations, overhaul procedures
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), scan tool usage, sensor testing, actuator testing
Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, measurement specifications
Level Of Detail:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to complete engine/transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers use of standard hand tools, specialized tools, and diagnostic equipment (scan tools)
Diagrams:
Includes detailed wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, and exploded views
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Overdrive
Transmission Model:
Kia-specific F4A51 or equivalent
Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up
Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine ATF-SP-II M or SP-III / Dexron III
Capacity Approx:
7.0 - 8.0 Quarts (without torque converter drain)
Length:
195.7 inches (4970 mm)
Width:
74.6 inches (1895 mm)
Height:
67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Wheelbase:
118.1 inches (3000 mm)
Front Track:
63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Rear Track:
63.2 inches (1605 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
4200 - 4400 lbs (1905 - 2000 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
5800 lbs (2630 kg) (approx.)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
39.0 cubic feet (1104 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
85.0 cubic feet (2407 liters)
Cargo Volume Max Seats Folded:
145.5 cubic feet (4119 liters)
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
Five Stars (for model year)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:
Five Stars (for model year)
IIHS Ratings:
Varies by test and year, generally acceptable to good for frontal impact.
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on higher trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player, multi-speaker system.
Rear Entertainment:
Optional rear-seat entertainment system with video cassette player (VCP) or early DVD capability was available on some trims.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power locks, power mirrors.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available on most trims
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed, based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (Long-life iridium plugs typically installed)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or more frequently under severe driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 50,000 - 60,000 miles or 4-5 years.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Quarts (4.2 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based, Asian vehicle type (e.g., Toyota Pink or equivalent long-life coolant)
Common Problems:
Occasional transmission solenoid issues, power window motor failures, potential for aging suspension components (bushings, struts), ABS sensor issues, minor electrical glitches.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check and clean the Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF), inspect serpentine belt and tensioner, ensure proper cooling system maintenance to prevent overheating.
Kia Introduction Usdm:
Kia established presence in the US market in the mid-1990s, growing its model lineup significantly.
Sedona Launch:
The Kia Sedona (also known as Kia Carnival in some markets) was first introduced globally in 1998 and entered the US market for the 2002 model year.
2003 Updates:
Minor revisions for 2003, often focusing on interior features, packaging, and minor styling tweaks. Safety features were continually refined.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily South Korea (Kia Hwaseong Plant)
Initial Reception:
The Sedona, as a value-oriented minivan, often received positive remarks for its affordability and utility, though less frequently awarded than its more established competitors.
Consumer Reports:
Ratings varied annually, with some years showing average or below-average reliability predictions compared to segment leaders.
Safety Certifications:
Meets all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) applicable for 2003.