Market Position:
The Kia Carnival Sedona (MPV/Minivan) for 2002 positioned itself as a value-oriented and practical family vehicle in a segment often dominated by larger, more expensive competitors. It aimed to offer a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and a good feature set for its price point.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against established players like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan, and Ford Windstar. The Sedona sought to differentiate through aggressive pricing and a strong warranty, while offering comparable practicality and family-friendly features.
Key Features:
Spacious seating for up to seven or eight passengers, flexible interior configurations, comfortable ride quality, a generous cargo area, and a focus on affordability and reliability.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Management (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Air Intake System, Turbocharging System (if applicable), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS), Wheels & Tires, Body & Chassis, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Body Electronics, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Troubleshooting Procedures
Procedures Included:
Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Component Removal & Installation, Component Overhaul & Rebuild, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Faults, Electrical System Diagnosis, Wiring Harness Repair, Fluid Changes & Checks, Brake Service, Suspension Alignment, Steering Linkage Adjustment, HVAC System Servicing, Engine Tune-up, Emission Controls Servicing
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance tasks to advanced diagnostic and repair procedures, including detailed component specifications, torque values, and step-by-step instructions for complex operations. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for digital viewing and printing of individual pages or sections.
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Primary Engine:
3.5L V6 (G6CU/G6CU-G)
Horsepower:
Approx. 195-200 hp @ 5500 rpm (Varies slightly by market/specific tune)
Torque:
Approx. 215-225 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm (Varies slightly by market/specific tune)
Fuel System:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Code Example:
G6CU
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 93.0 mm x 82.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 9.4:1
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Optional:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (Less Common)
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, Overdrive, Torque converter lock-up clutch
Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon
Transmission Fluid Capacity
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.0 Liters (dry fill)
Overall Length:
Approx. 193.1 inches (4905 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 118.1 inches (3000 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 150+ cubic feet
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 20-30 cubic feet (Varies by seat configuration)
Cargo Volume Max:
Approx. 120-140 cubic feet (with 2nd & 3rd rows folded/removed)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4300 - 4600 lbs (1950 - 2087 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5900 - 6000 lbs (2676 - 2722 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-Star (for 2002 model year, typical rating for vehicles of this era)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-Star (for 2002 model year, typical rating for vehicles of this era)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (for 2002 model year, typical rating for vehicles of this era)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) - Optional on some trims
Passive Features:
Front Airbags (Driver & Passenger), Side-impact Airbags (Optional), 3-point Seatbelts for all occupants, Child Seat Anchors (LATCH)
Brake System:
Front: Ventilated Disc, Rear: Solid Disc
Tire Size Standard:
P215/65R16
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
Infotainment System:
Base models typically featured a standard AM/FM/CD player. Higher trims may have offered a cassette player, premium sound systems with more speakers, and optional rear-seat entertainment systems.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Standard features included ABS. Optional features like Traction Control were available on some models. Cruise control was standard on most trims.
Connectivity Features:
No advanced connectivity options like Bluetooth or USB ports. Auxiliary input jacks for audio devices may have been available on higher trim levels.
Instrument Cluster Features:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and engine temperature. Warning lights for various vehicle systems. Typically no digital displays beyond an odometer.
Service Intervals Oil Change
Service Intervals Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil)
Service Intervals Tire Rotation
Service Intervals Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid Change
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)
Service Intervals Coolant Change
Service Intervals Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API SM or higher)
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Fluid Specifications Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based, Asian vehicle formula (e.g., Toyota Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent)
Known Issues:
Premature wear on suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings), potential for transmission solenoid issues, minor electrical gremlins (e.g., power window motors), occasional cooling system leaks (hose connections), and some reports of dashboard trim degradation. The V6 engine is generally robust but requires adherence to maintenance schedules.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for Iridium type spark plugs
Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually
Drive Belt Inspection:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km); replace as needed based on condition.
Brand Heritage:
Kia, founded in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Initially producing bicycles, motorcycles, and trucks, Kia entered the passenger car market with licensed models before developing its own designs. The brand has grown significantly since its privatization and alliance with Hyundai Motor Group.
Model Evolution:
The Kia Carnival, known as the Sedona in North America and some other markets, debuted in 1998. It represented Kia's entry into the burgeoning minivan segment. The 2002 model year falls within the first generation (1998-2005), characterized by its distinct styling and focus on practicality. Later generations saw significant redesigns and platform updates.
Production Locations:
Primary production for the first-generation Carnival/Sedona was at Kia's Hwasung Plant in South Korea. Some assembly may have also occurred in other Kia overseas plants depending on the market.