2003 Kia Sedona: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2003 Kia Sedona: 4 recalls, 163 owner complaints and up to 16 mpg combined.
Recalls
4 vehicle recalls from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Brakes (air) Vehicle recall #03V158000 · 2003 · 3,375 vehicles
What's wrong: On certain passenger vehicles, there was a programming error in the anti-lock braking system (ABS) electronic control module logic. The programming error could cause reduced braking force at speeds below 25 mph, which could result in increased stopping distances.
Why it matters: Such increased stopping distances could result in a crash.
The fix: Dealers will reprogram the control module. Owner notification began May 19, 2003.
Speed control / throttle Vehicle recall #05V013000 · 2005 · 89,238 vehicles
What's wrong: On certain MINI vans, during assembly, the throttle cable would twist itself out of position.
Why it matters: This can permit the cable to be hung up, which could result in a crash.
The fix: Dealers will replace the throttle cable free of charge. Vehicles produced from March 20, 2001 through November 7, 2001 will have a guide clip installed on the throttle body assembly in order to ensure that the tension force cable does not move out of position. Vehicles manufactured beginning on…
Wheels Vehicle recall #05V232000 · 2005 · 37,358 vehicles
What's wrong: On certain MINI vans equipped with alloy wheels, moisture can accumulate around the rear hub caps causing damage to the outer wheel bearing.
Why it matters: Wheel bearing failure May occur without warning which could result in a crash.
The fix: Dealers will replace the rear hub caps free of charge. Upon inspection, some vehicles will also require replacement of the rear outer bearings and/or hub assembly. The recall began on June 13, 2005.
Speed control / throttle Vehicle recall #05V329000 · 2005 · 118,447 vehicles
What's wrong: On certain MINI vans, freezing conditions can cause water on the throttle cable to freeze during normal operation. Resistance to movement of the throttle cable can occur when the driver lifts their foot off of the gas pedal.
Why it matters: This can cause the cable to stick, thus preventing the engine from returning to idle and causing the vehicle to maintain speed or accelerate. Such an event can occur without warning and could cause a crash.
The fix: Dealers will modify a protective sleeve around the throttle cable. The recall began on August 15, 2005.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 21 mention a fire, 24 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Electrical (29): the most common themes are electrical failure (18), fire / smoke (17).
- Airbags (25): the most common themes are fails to deploy (8), warning light on (4).
- Engine & cooling (20): the most common themes are fire / smoke (4), leaks (3), stalls / loses power (3).
- Brakes (hydraulic) (17): the most common themes are noise or vibration (4), brake failure / soft pedal (4).
The 2003 Kia Sedona has 163 owner complaints, ranking #7 of 20 Sedona model years for complaints (about average; the typical year has 121). Complaints peaked in 2005 (31 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 3 years old, at a median of 48,000 miles. Neighboring years: 2002 (198 complaints, 3 recalls), 2004 (176 complaints, 2 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 L 6-cyl | Automatic 5-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 14 | 18 | 16 | Regular |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2003 Kia Sedona.
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FAQ
Does the 2003 Kia Sedona have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 4 vehicle recalls for the 2003 Kia Sedona. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2003 Kia Sedona problems?
Owners have filed 163 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are electrical (29), airbags (25), engine & cooling (20).
What gas mileage does the 2003 Kia Sedona get?
EPA ratings run up to 16 mpg combined (3.5 L, Automatic 5-spd), across 1 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2003 Kia Sedona repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.