How Reliable Is the Kia Sedona? The anticipated reliability rating for the 2021 Kia Sedona is 81 out of 100. A predicted reliability score from J.D. Power of 91 to 100 is regarded as the best, 81 to 90 as great, 70 to 80 as medium, and 0-69 as fair and below average.
In This Article...
What issues is the Kia Sedona experiencing?
Principal Kia Sedona Issues
- Unusual startup sounds.
- Initially Complicated.
- defective battery
- Clutch assembly for the air conditioner that isn’t working.
- Software Issues Affecting Transmission.
- Issues with Exterior Lighting.
- Crankshaft Position Sensor failure.
- Failure of the alternator too soon.
When should you stay away from Sedona?
Since its introduction in 1998, the Kia Sedona has served as the brand’s iconic minivan model for more than 20 years. It served as the forerunner to Kia’s rebranded and redesigned minivan, the Carnival, which made its debut in 2022. Until the more SUV-like Carnival took its place, the Sedona served as Kia’s main offering in the minivan market.
Although not very sophisticated, most Sedonas were said to have few problems and could travel up to 250,000 miles with regular maintenance and proper upkeep. Despite being somewhat successful, it still had shortcomings. These Kia Sedona years should be avoided.
Short Answer: 2002, 2003, 2005, 2012, 2016
The Sedona had been a fixture in the minivan market for 20 years prior to the Carnival. The Sedona is generally thought of as a nice minivan for a reasonable price. However, some particular years have a number of issues, including recalls and owner-reported customer complaints. The first and third versions of the Kia Sedona are mostly the ones to steer clear of.
Common problems and grievances
- An abundance of recalls
- low engine output
- Fire risks
- Ratings of average safety
- Costly repair work
The Sedona has seen a series of significant recalls since its launch shortly after 2000 for each model year. The only vehicles with just one significant recall were those from 2014 and the most recent model year in 2020. Recalls are a factor to take into account, although they do not always make or break a car.
- 4 in 2002
- 5 in 2003
- 3 in 2004
- 2 in 2005
- 8 in 2006
- 9 in 2007
- 6 in 2008
- 6 in 2009
- 6 in 2010
- 6 in 2011
- 5 in 2012
- 2013 not applicable
- 1 in 2014
- 3 in 2015
- 3 in 2016
- 3 in 2017
- 3 in 2018
- 1 in 2020
In addition to recalls, Kia has replied to over 200 recorded bulletins with common troubleshooting concerns reported by drivers and consumers. Due to the fact that the 20062012 models were recalled numerous times for the same issues, they have a comparable number of recalls. Due to the Kia Sedona’s absence in 2013 the 2013 model is also lacking.
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Kia Sedona Years to Avoid: 2002, 2003, and 2005
A used 2002 Kia Sedona would probably cost less than $3,000 if you were looking for one today. There have been concerns about the difficult handling and weak engine in this model year. In addition, the 2002 Sedona was the target of numerous safety recalls right away after the model’s introduction. It encountered comparable difficulties in 2003 and 2005 as a result of inadequate front seat assembly and seat belt concerns.
The seatbelts’ shoddy construction prevented them from providing reliable restraint in the event of a collision. Wires that touched the metal underneath the front seats were the subject of the most recent recall, which was issued in 2005. This was one of the most hazardous risks since it occasionally sparked flames.
Common problems
- inadequate engine power
- defective seatbelts
- numerous recalls
- Under the chairs, there are fire risks
- inadequate handling skills
There are several cars available that allow you to tower above obstacles without sacrificing the comfort of a compact automobile. Because of this, we’ve compiled a list of our top new sedans with high ground clearance.
Kia Sedona Years to Avoid: 2012
The 2012 Sedona gained notoriety for a relatively unusual cause. It had a weak roof rating and presented potential safety risks in the event of an accident. Furthermore, the car cage’s design and safety rating only obtained a “satisfactory grade. The best cars on the market right now, even older Sedona models, frequently have great overall IIHS ratings.
For the 2012 model year, there have been a total of 5 significant recalls, raising more concerns about its safety. Even the 2012 model year was the target of a lawsuit because of the soy wire coating that had drawn animals to the undercarriage and harmed the electrical system. Consumer Reports only gave the 2012 model a 1 out of 5 owner satisfaction rating, which is a significant indicator of consumer unhappiness.
Most frequent problems:
- safety issues
- problems with soy-based electrical wiring
- a low score for customer satisfaction
Kia Sedona Years to Avoid: 2016
The most expensive and current model to appear on the list of years to stay away from is the 2016 Kia Sedona, but its issues show that it is not worth the money. According to Kia Complaints, the only Sedona model year from the third generation to stay away from is the 2016.
The 2016 Sedona has received the most NHTSA complaints involving electrical issues. The incorrect rear light would be produced by blinkers, posing a clear driving hazard. Headlights suddenly cut off and turn signals don’t work properly, greatly increasing the chance of a collision at night.
- Turn signal and electrical failure
- sudden failure of the headlights
You want to find the best bargain on the car you want, not actually purchase it. If a comparable vehicle is offered locally for less money, the CoPilot app will let you know, so you can be sure you received the best bargain.
What Kia Sedona Models are Good?
In the US, the Kia Sedona has been available for sale for about 20 years. In this regard, we were able to gather testimonials from long-term owners from a variety of Sedona forums. The Kia Sedona has received favorable reviews from numerous reputable sources, especially the most current model produced prior to 2016. These typically receive ratings from U.S. News of 4.5 out of 5 stars, indicating that they are reasonable choices for customers. Most of the newest generation cars have only a few recalls and minor complaints, with the exception of the 2016 model.
J.D. Power ranked the most recent Sedona second among the top four minivans with an 81 out of 100 quality and reliability rating. Most experts would advise extra rustproofing after the Sedona’s 5-year anti-perforation warranty has passed. Although the Sedona has since been replaced by the more contemporary Carnival, it still offers most families a reasonably reliable car at a reasonable cost.
To get a better sense of the ride, it’s usually a good idea to test out a few different model years. Even though each generation is generally similar, each year does have a distinctive mood and its own eccentricities. Most people looking for a minivan should consider the Sedona; you just need to look around a bit to get the one that’s right for you.
Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You
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Just seeking for more recent models? The search engine for virtually new vehicles is CoPilot Compare. only observe recentfive years or lessautos with little mileage. The greatest place to look for off-lease, early trade-in, and CPO vehicles is CoPilot Compare.
What’s best? We have more information on each vehicle than our rivals since CoPilot was developed using the same technologies that dealerships use to acquire and sell their inventories. Since CoPilot doesn’t partner with automakers, there aren’t any sponsored posts or other dubious tacticsjust the most information about the best vehicles. To learn more about CoPilot’s operation, see our About Us page.
How many miles can a Kia Sedona travel?
With no significant issues, the Kia Sedona can last up to 250,000 kilometers. If you drive 15,000 miles per year, that’s at least 16 years. Most Sedonas would reach this mileage or perhaps more with good maintenance and gentle use.
Has the Kia Sedona’s transmission experienced issues?
You can drive at the speed you want thanks to your transmission, which transfers power from the engine to the wheels.
Your transmission is in charge of translating the appropriate amount of power into the appropriate amount of speed, therefore
The 2017 Kia Sedona is dependable.
Is the 2017 Kia Sedona Reliable? According to J.D. Power, the 2017 Sedona has a below-average expected dependability rating of 2.5 out of 5.
The 2016 Kia Sedona is dependable.
J.D. Power has given the 2016 Kia Sedona a reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5. This is one of the lowest ratings among minivans and below average for a vehicle overall (a score of three is average).
Does snow fall in Sedona?
Sedona’s off-season is winter, when average highs only reach the mid-fifties. Although it doesn’t snow often, Sedona’s red rocks do occasionally receive a small dusting (around 3 1/2 inches per year).
Is July in Sedona too hot?
Sedona experiences only a few inches of rain per month on average throughout the months of July and August. The hottest months here are July and August, which have average highs of 94F97F (34C36C), with June coming in second. Expect a 4.96.7 MPH average wind speed, which will feel like a gentle breeze.
- Average July high temperature: 97 F (36C)
- Average August high temperature: 94 F (34C)
Sedona is warm in July and August but not oppressively so. You can schedule the tough exercises for the mornings because it is cooler here than in Phoenix or Tucson. Because to the mountain winds, it also becomes cooler later in the day.
Local advice: Is it unwise and unpleasant to visit Sedona in July or August? What you define as hot and unpleasant will vary! Compared to Hawaii, it is not as humid. Just keep in mind to drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and loose fitting clothing. Avoid eating large meals for lunch. It is best to go hiking in the morning or late in the day. Have fun instead of worrying about the heat.
You may have a good time in Sedona throughout the summer even if you engage in outdoor pursuits like hiking. Choose simple, short paths with plenty of cover, and avoid hiking between noon and 4 PM when it’s hot outside.
In general, Sedona’s summer heat won’t be as awful as you would anticipate. It is more tolerable at higher elevations and in the breeze. Because you can easily become dehydrated, make sure to drink enough of water!
With an average high temperature of 97F in July, Sedona is warm (36C). It is not until later in the afternoon that this heat strikes. The mornings are cooler, with temperatures only rising to roughly 73F (23C) around seven in the morning. The best time of day to engage in outdoor activities is early in the morning.
typical daytime temperatures in early July:
- 7 AM: 73F
- 12 PM: 90F
- 3 PM: 95F
The afternoon high reaches 90F around midday, and the morning high reaches 80F. The temperature is 95F or greater at 3 pm. The greatest place to be at this time of day to stay cool and swim in a pool or body of water is nearby.
In the Sedona region, the average high temperature in August is 94F. (34C). Similar to July, lower temperatures are available in the morning, however the change in temperature is much less noticeable. At seven in the morning, the temperature should be about 74F (23C).
mid-August daytime average temperatures (not average high):
- 7 AM: 74F
- 12 PM: 87F
- 3 PM: 89F
By noon, the temperature has risen to roughly 87F, and by three o’clock, the high will have reached 89F.
The midday temps will feel considerably colder than they are because there is little humidity each day.
Rainfall and Monsoons
Every year, Sedona and its surroundings receive a fair amount of precipitation in the months of July and August. The average rainfall in July is roughly 1.5, while the maximum rainfall in August is 2. Even with this much rain, the humidity level is relatively low.
It’s good to know that Arizona’s low humidity causes temperatures to feel roughly 10 to 15 degrees cooler than they actually are on hotter days.
In Sedona, the monsoon season lasts from June to August. Even though it might seem frightening, the rain showers pass quickly. It is advised to stay inside during severe storms because they can involve lightning and heavy downpours.
Monsoons typically occur in the afternoons. The fact that these storms often only last a few days should be kept in mind.
There is a good chance that at least half of your days in Sedona in July and August will feature dry afternoons.
What to Wear
You should dress differently in the mornings of July and August due to Sedona’s lower temperatures compared to the midday and evenings. Wear lighter clothing that you can take off as the day goes on. For outdoor activities during a rainfall, bring a lightweight rain jacket.
A light jacket and light-colored slacks are ideal for this time of day because morning temperatures in July and August average in the 70s. The best choice for outdoor activities will be cargo pants that can be transformed into shorts.
If not, layer up with tank tops and shorts and wear closed-toed footwear like sneakers or hiking boots. By doing this, you can stay cool while the temperature rises.
You should wear tank tops or t-shirts with shorts in Sedona as July and August have the warmest daytime and nighttime temperatures. Since there isn’t much cloud cover, pack a sun hat or cap to protect your skin from sunburn when hiking.
Since there are numerous swimming pools nearby, it’s smart to pack a swimsuit, sunscreen, and towel in case your plans suddenly change. The best course of action in the event of sudden monsoon storms is to seek shelter, but if necessary, bring a light rain jacket in the afternoons to stay dry.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and hiking maps when you go hiking in Sedona in July and August. Wearing hiking boots, a hat, shorts, and a t-shirt is recommended (to avoid sunburned shoulders). You will recognize the value of shade, so put on a hat. It’s a good idea to have water shoes because certain sites, including Slide Rock State Park, have water that visitors can walk through.
You may get away with bringing fewer layers and less luggage if you want to spend the day browsing the stores in Sedona. Shoes that you can wear while walking for several hours, such as sneakers, flats, or other comfortable footwear, are a necessity.
Shorts, summery skirts, tank tops, t-shirts, and tank tops are all appropriate while seeing Sedona’s downtown. You should pack drink to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen, just like when hiking.
Wineries, which have a distinct dress code than other outdoor activities, are also popular in Sedona. When visiting a winery, wear dresses, skirts, blouses, and casual footwear like flats.
Men can put on finer shorts, short-sleeve button-down shirts or polos, and casual yet elegant shoes. While sipping wine in Sedona, these clothing will keep you cool and adequately dressed.
- a raincoat (necessary for rainy evenings)
- Suitable footwear (different depending on activity)
- Lightweight layers and jacket (early morning activities)
- T-shirts and tank tops
- Shorts
- Convertible cargo pants for outdoor sports and hiking
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Sunscreen
- hat or sunhat
- Dressier attire (for vineyards and upscale restaurants)
How Busy is Sedona in July and August?
In Sedona, July and August are a little bit hectic. Since peak season is typically in March, April, and May (during the spring) and in October, there aren’t many people around at this time. Even though people travel to other towns to escape the heat, there are still very few people there.
It’s good to know that weekends are always busy. Plan some activities for the week. It’s advisable to start your activities early on the weekends because parking lots and trailheads are congested.
Crowds increase as the weather continues to drop toward the end of August. Expect a sizable crowd around this time because families are coming before the start of the school year. If you want a quieter, less crowded excursion, avoid going from the middle to the end of August.
Due to demand, Sedona’s hotel prices and airfare are modestly priced in July and August. Although rates are not at their lowest at this time of year, most people can afford them. Rates will rise at the end of August because more individuals will be traveling at this time.
The best deals on hotels and flights can be found while traveling in July and early August.
Things To Do
While visiting Sedona in July and August, there are a lot of things to do. Although there are some indoor attractions, the majority of things to do are outside because there are so many breathtaking natural locations to explore. Particularly the Chapel of the Holy Cross, the Sedona Heritage Museum, or taking a hike on one of the simple paths.
Our locals in Sedona heartily endorse the tours listed above. Making a reservation will get you a coupon (printed or mobile via phone). Excellent comfort.
- When: All year long (except Christmas, Thanksgiving, Good Friday, and Easter)
- Where: Sedona, Arizona 86336, 780 Chapel Rd.
- Cost: Free
One of Sedona’s most visited and well-known destinations is this attraction. Built in 1956, this chapel is perched atop buttes in Sedona. Numerous visitors come each year for tours and services because of its distinctive position.
Remember that pets, food, and beverages are not permitted inside. To avoid the throngs that are present in the afternoon, come here in the morning. After a tour, it’s worthwhile to browse the gift shop on the lower floor to find products manufactured by regional artisans.
- When: All year long (depending on weather)
- Where: Sedona, Arizona, 86336, 204 North State Road 89A
- Price per person: $87.22 plus tax
Locals strongly advise anyone visiting Sedona to take one of these trips, particularly in the months of July and August. Visitors can see Sedona’s Red Rocks and the lowland desert while taking Pink Jeep tours.
For people who prefer to engage in outdoor activities without being directly exposed to the sun, this is the ideal activity. Each jeep may accommodate up to nine passengers, and the journey lasts two hours. There are numerous opportunities for photo stops along the way and information is supplied for each spot.