Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact spec)
Fluid Capacities
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (total fill)
Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4705 mm (185.2 in)
Width:
1950 mm (76.8 in)
Height:
1740 mm (68.5 in)
Wheelbase:
2800 mm (110.2 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1900-2050 kg (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, consult vehicle placard.
Interior
Seating Capacity:
7 or 8 passengers
Cargo
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Varies by seat configuration; refer to manual for specific figures.
Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Refer to specific model year NHTSA reports; generally designed to meet 1999 safety standards.
IIHS Crash Test:
Refer to specific model year IIHS reports.
Active Features
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners for front seats, 3-point for rear seats.
Structural
Body Construction:
Unibody construction with integrated safety cage.
Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette with optional CD player. Speaker configuration varies by trim.
Display:
Basic analog gauges, climate control displays, and indicator lights. No integrated navigation or advanced color screens.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available cruise control system.
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking sensors were not a common factory option for this model year.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically equipped with factory auxiliary audio input or USB ports.
Climate Control
HVAC System:
Manual or Automatic Climate Control with rear HVAC vents and fan speed control.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (recommend specific plug type from manual).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Refer to manual. Some V6 engines of this era used timing belts that required replacement around 90,000-100,000 miles. Crucial for preventing catastrophic engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, protected to -37°C (-35°F). Refer to manual for specific Kia coolant specification or compatible type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Kia Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF (refer to manual).
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
CV joints, ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings due to vehicle weight and typical usage.
Engine Potential Issues:
Premature wear on timing belt tensioner and water pump if not replaced at recommended intervals; potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets.
Transmission Potential Issues:
Slipping or harsh shifting in automatic transmissions may indicate worn clutches or solenoids, often exacerbated by infrequent fluid changes.
Electrical Potential Issues:
Corrosion on connectors, faulty window regulators, and HVAC blower motor issues are not uncommon in vehicles of this age.
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia History:
Kia Corporation, founded in 1944, has a long history in Korean automotive manufacturing, diversifying from bicycles to trucks and eventually passenger vehicles. Entering the global market in the early 1990s.
Model Evolution
Carnival Introduction:
The Kia Carnival (known as Sedona in North America) was introduced in 1998 as Kia's first minivan, aiming to capture a share of the growing family vehicle market.
First Generation:
The 1999 model represents the first generation (VQ) of the Kia Carnival, characterized by its distinctive styling for the era and a focus on interior space and practicality.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea (e.g., Hwaseong Plant).
Production Years
Generation 1 Years:
1998-2005
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Early Reviews:
The Carnival received mixed reviews upon its launch, often praised for its value and interior space but criticized for ride quality and engine refinement compared to established competitors.
Ratings
Value For Money:
Consistently marketed as a budget-friendly alternative in the minivan segment.
Certifications
Emissions Compliance:
Meets Federal emissions standards for the 1999 model year.