🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Carnival

Year:

2004

Market Designation:

North America (Kia Sedona), Global (Kia Carnival)

Vin Prefix:

KN...

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Kia Carnival (or Sedona) for 2004 was positioned as a value-oriented, family-friendly minivan, competing with established players like the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and Dodge Grand Caravan.

Competitive Analysis:

While not always matching the refinement or feature set of its Japanese competitors, the Carnival offered a compelling price point and practical space, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families.

Key Features:

Spacious interior, versatile seating configurations, comfortable ride, and a focus on practicality for hauling passengers and cargo.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete factory service and repair procedures for Kia Carnival 2004 model year.

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostic, repair, overhaul, and component testing procedures for all engine variants.

Transmission:

Repair and maintenance for automatic transmission systems, including diagnosis, component replacement, and fluid service.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, including CV axles, differential, and related components.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., MacPherson strut, multi-link), including components, alignment, and troubleshooting.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum or disc/disc), ABS diagnostics, component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers, lines), and bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement (pump, rack and pinion, lines).

Electrical:

Comprehensive electrical system coverage, including wiring diagrams, component testing, fuses, relays, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, and body electrical.

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis and repair, including A/C system refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, heater core, and controls.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, seats, and related hardware.

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system diagnosis and component replacement, seat belt mechanisms.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and step-by-step diagnostic procedures for various systems.

Maintenance:

Detailed instructions for scheduled maintenance tasks, including oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, and fluid checks.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components of the vehicle.

Overhaul:

Procedures for complete engine and transmission overhauls, including disassembly, inspection, and reassembly.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides to identify and resolve common and complex vehicle issues.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for removing and installing specific parts and components.

Calibration And Adjustment:

Procedures for calibrating sensors, adjusting mechanical components, and setting specifications.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and illustrations for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF download, printable)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF download, printable)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text content within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Illustrations:

Includes diagrams, schematics, and illustrations to aid in understanding repair procedures.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variant:

3.5L V6 DOHC (G6CU)

Engine Displacement:

3.5 liters (3497 cc)

Cylinders:

6

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 valves

Horsepower:

Approx. 200-204 hp @ 5500 rpm (may vary slightly by market/spec).

Torque:

Approx. 217-220 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (may vary slightly by market/spec).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Engine Control Unit:

ECU/ECM (Electronic Control Unit/Module) with OBD-II diagnostics.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic transmission

Transmission Type:

N/A (Only automatic was standard for this generation in most markets).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification).

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual for the 4-speed automatic transmission.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4810 mm (189.4 in)

Width:

Approx. 1900 mm (74.8 in)

Height:

Approx. 1720 mm (67.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2860 mm (112.6 in)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Variable, but substantial for a minivan.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1950 - 2050 kg (4300 - 4520 lbs), depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

4 out of 5 stars for driver and front passenger in frontal crash tests (NHTSA data for similar model years may vary, check specific reports).

IIHS Front Crash Test Rating:

Good (for frontal offset) - but this vehicle was not consistently tested by IIHS for early model years, check specific reports.

Anti-Lock Braking System:

Standard on most trims.

Electronic Brake-Force Distribution:

Often paired with ABS.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger; side-impact airbags may be optional on some trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, with pretensioners for front seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic infotainment options typical for the era, likely including an AM/FM stereo with CD player. Higher trims may have a cassette player, premium sound system, or rear-seat entertainment options.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited driver assistance features; primarily ABS. Cruise control would be standard on most models.

Connectivity Options:

Minimal connectivity by modern standards. May include auxiliary input for audio on some later models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for exact recommendation).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), depending on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles for iridium or platinum plugs (verify type in manual).

Engine Oil Type:

5W-30 or 10W-30 API SJ/SL or ILSAC GF-3 (refer to manual for exact spec and capacity).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (Asian Red/Pink type often recommended, verify in manual).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (verify in manual).

Known Issues:

Potential issues include transmission solenoids failing, power window motor failures, A/C system leaks, and occasional engine sensor issues. Some models may experience exhaust manifold cracking or alternator problems. Refer to the manual for specific troubleshooting.

Common DTCs:

The manual will provide extensive lists of OBD-II DTCs and their probable causes/solutions for all major systems.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Kia, as a South Korean automaker, has a history of producing reliable and increasingly sophisticated vehicles, often focusing on value and practicality since its introduction to global markets.

Model Evolution:

The 2004 model year represents the first generation of the Kia Carnival/Sedona, which debuted globally in the late 1990s. This generation was Kia's first foray into the minivan segment, aiming to capture market share with competitive pricing and a practical design.

Production Plant:

Primarily produced at Kia's Hwaseong Plant in South Korea.

Production Years:

First Generation: 1998-2005 (with facelifts).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Kia Carnival/Sedona has been recognized for its value proposition and practicality. Specific awards may vary by year and market, often focusing on affordability and family utility rather than performance or luxury.

Ratings:

Consumer satisfaction ratings often reflect its value, with some critiques regarding long-term reliability compared to segment leaders. However, maintenance and repair are simplified with access to detailed service information.