2019 Kia Sedona

The 2019 Kia Sedona is a minivan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology. It is powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine producing 276 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. People generally like the Sedona for its value, practicality, and comfortable seating. Common dislikes include its relatively bland styling and lower fuel economy compared to some competitors.

Engine

3.3L V6

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of the engine stalling unexpectedly while driving, particularly at lower speeds or when idling. This can be a safety concern.
  • Solution: Diagnosis can be complex, ranging from faulty sensors (crankshaft position sensor, mass airflow sensor) to issues with the fuel system or vacuum leaks. Repair involves replacing the faulty component and potentially reprogramming the engine control unit (ECU).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+ depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks have been reported from various locations on the engine, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. Signs include visible oil drips, the smell of burning oil, and low oil level.
  • Solution: The repair involves identifying the source of the leak and replacing the affected gasket or seal. In some cases, more extensive repairs may be needed if the leak is due to a cracked component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the source and severity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Knocking Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a knocking noise coming from the engine, which can indicate serious internal engine damage. This could be due to worn bearings, low oil pressure, or other issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is crucial and often involves an engine teardown. Repairs can range from replacing individual components to a complete engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the cause and extent of damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Many drivers experience harsh or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears. This can feel like a noticeable “clunk” or hesitation during acceleration and deceleration.
  • Solution: Some owners have found that a transmission software update can improve shifting smoothness. In other cases, the issue may be related to low transmission fluid, worn solenoids, or valve body issues. A transmission flush and fluid change can sometimes resolve the problem. More significant issues may require valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $1,500+ (valve body replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip, causing a momentary loss of power or an increase in engine RPM without a corresponding increase in speed. This is most often noticed during acceleration.
  • Solution: This can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutch packs, or a faulty torque converter. A transmission flush might temporarily improve the situation, but often the transmission requires repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: A delay in engagement, especially when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse, is a common complaint. This can be accompanied by a noticeable thud.
  • Solution: This can be due to low transmission fluid, internal wear, or valve body problems. In some cases, a transmission flush can help, but often the issue indicates more serious internal damage requiring professional diagnosis and repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $3,000+ (transmission repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Often caused by worn sway bar bushings, stabilizer end links, or failing shocks. Replacing the worn components typically resolves the noise.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the components replaced
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sliding Door Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The power sliding doors may fail to open or close properly, or may exhibit intermittent operation. This can be caused by faulty door motors, sensors, or wiring issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosis involves checking the door motor, sensors, wiring harness, and control module. Replacing the faulty component usually resolves the problem.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the component needing repair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use. This can lead to difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Diagnosis involves checking for parasitic draws on the battery. Common causes include a faulty alternator, a malfunctioning infotainment system, or a problem with the vehicle’s electrical system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, glitch, or become unresponsive. This can include problems with the touchscreen, navigation, and audio functions.
  • Solution: Sometimes a software update can resolve the issue. If not, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Liftgate Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or may exhibit intermittent operation.
  • Solution: This can be caused by a faulty liftgate motor, sensors, or wiring issues. Diagnosis involves checking the motor, sensors, wiring harness, and control module. Replacing the faulty component usually resolves the problem.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the component needing repair
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Upholstery Concerns
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the quality of the upholstery, including premature wear and tear on cloth and leather surfaces.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn sections of the upholstery, which may be costly to replace.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the damage to the upholstery
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Kia Sedona can have some issues, with the most common complaints centering around transmission performance (harsh shifting, slipping) and engine issues (stalling, oil leaks). Electrical problems with the sliding doors and infotainment system also occur. While some issues are minor and easily resolved, others, such as transmission or engine problems, can be costly to repair. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history before making a purchase.