Kia Sedona research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Sedona is a roomy, comfortable minivan that usually costs less than an Odyssey or Sienna. The 2015-2021 version is the one to get, with a 276-hp V6, a quiet, upscale cabin, seating for seven or eight and second-row seats that slide and stow; 2019-2021 add an 8-speed automatic and refreshed styling. Most Sedonas with a turn-key ignition qualify for a free anti-theft software upgrade, so check the VIN.
Model years covered: 2011–2021. No 2013 Sedona was sold in the U.S., and the Sedona was replaced by the Kia Carnival for the 2022 model year; there are no 2022 or later U.S. Sedonas.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Spacious three row seating
- Strong V6 power
- Comfortable quiet ride 2015 and later
- Lower price than odyssey and sienna
- Seating for seven or eight
- Upscale sxl trim
Things to know before you buy
- No 2013 model year
- 2015 is a full redesign
- 8 speed automatic from 2019
- Fuel economy about 21 mpg combined
- No all wheel drive or hybrid
- Power sliding doors need checking
- Anti theft software upgrade for turn key vans
- Replaced by carnival for 2022
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 2 (2006–2014)
The second-generation Sedona was sold in the U.S. for 2006-2012 and again for 2014 (Kia skipped 2013). From 2011 it used a 3.5L V6 (about 271 hp) and 6-speed automatic in place of the original 3.8L and 5-speed, plus updated 'tiger nose' styling.
Buyer takeaway: A 2011-2014 Sedona is inexpensive family transportation; inspect it carefully, and consider a 2015 or later for a big jump in refinement.
Generation 3 (2015–2021)
The 2015 redesign brought a crossover-inspired look, a far nicer cabin, a 276-hp 3.3L direct-injected V6 and slide-and-stow second-row seats, with trims from L to SXL. A 2019 refresh added an 8-speed automatic and updated styling and infotainment. The Carnival replaced it for 2022.
Buyer takeaway: Choose 2019-2021 for the 8-speed and updates, or 2015-2018 for the best price; the EX and SX are the value sweet spots and the SXL is the luxury pick.
Kia Sedona by model year
2021 Kia Sedona
The 2021 Sedona is the last; Kia replaced it with the Carnival for 2022. It keeps the 276-hp 3.3L V6 and 8-speed automatic (about 18/24 mpg). As the newest Sedona, it is a good choice for buyers who want a lower price than a Carnival. Turn-key 2021 Sedonas are still eligible for Kia's anti-theft software upgrade.
- Engines: 3.3 liter gdi V6 276 hp 248 lb ft
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: Minivan
What changed:
- Final sedona model year
- Replaced by the kia carnival for 2022
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software upgrade if turn key ignition; Direct injected V6 oil change records; Check engine light and codes; Infotainment and rear camera; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Power sliding doors and liftgate operation; Rear climate control operation; Seat mechanisms and latches; Brakes and tires for a heavy vehicle; Suspension and steering; Maintenance history.
2020 Kia Sedona
The 2020 Sedona carries over the refreshed 2019 van with the 276-hp 3.3L V6 and 8-speed automatic (about 18/24 mpg). It remains a roomy, comfortable family van with a lower price than most rivals. Check the power sliding doors, the transmission's shift quality, oil-change records, and the anti-theft software upgrade.
- Engines: 3.3 liter gdi V6 276 hp 248 lb ft
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: Minivan
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2019
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software upgrade if turn key ignition; Direct injected V6 oil change records; Check engine light and codes; Infotainment and rear camera; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Power sliding doors and liftgate operation; Rear climate control operation; Seat mechanisms and latches; Brakes and tires for a heavy vehicle; Suspension and steering; Maintenance history.
2019 Kia Sedona
The 2019 refresh updated the Sedona's styling, cabin and infotainment, and replaced the 6-speed with an 8-speed automatic. The 276-hp 3.3L V6 continues, rated about 18/24 mpg (21 combined). More driver-assistance features became available; verify equipment by trim. Confirm the anti-theft upgrade and recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 3.3 liter gdi V6 276 hp 248 lb ft
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: Minivan
What changed:
- Refreshed front and rear styling
- New 8 speed automatic replaces the 6 speed
- Updated cabin and infotainment
- More driver assistance features available
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software upgrade if turn key ignition; Direct injected V6 oil change records; Check engine light and codes; Infotainment and rear camera; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Power sliding doors and liftgate operation; Rear climate control operation; Seat mechanisms and latches; Brakes and tires for a heavy vehicle; Suspension and steering; Maintenance history.
2018 Kia Sedona
The 2018 Sedona is the last before the 2019 refresh and the last with the 6-speed automatic, paired with the 276-hp 3.3L V6 (about 18/24 mpg). It can be a good value if priced below a refreshed 2019. Check sliding doors, the transmission, oil-change records and the anti-theft software upgrade.
- Engines: 3.3 liter gdi V6 276 hp 248 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: Minivan
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Last year of the 6 speed automatic
- Last year before the 2019 refresh
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software upgrade if turn key ignition; Direct injected V6 oil change records; Check engine light and codes; Infotainment and rear camera; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Power sliding doors and liftgate operation; Rear climate control operation; Seat mechanisms and latches; Brakes and tires for a heavy vehicle; Suspension and steering; Maintenance history.
2017 Kia Sedona
The 2017 Sedona continues with the 276-hp 3.3L V6 and 6-speed automatic (about 18/24 mpg). Changes are minor, so shop on condition, mileage and equipment: the EX and SX add comfort and convenience features, while the SXL is the most luxurious. Confirm recalls, the anti-theft upgrade and sliding-door operation.
- Engines: 3.3 liter gdi V6 276 hp 248 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: Minivan
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Minor trim and equipment changes
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software upgrade if turn key ignition; Direct injected V6 oil change records; Check engine light and codes; Infotainment and rear camera; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Power sliding doors and liftgate operation; Rear climate control operation; Seat mechanisms and latches; Brakes and tires for a heavy vehicle; Suspension and steering; Maintenance history.
2016 Kia Sedona
The 2016 Sedona carries over the redesigned van with the 276-hp 3.3L V6 and 6-speed automatic (about 18/24 mpg; 17/22 for the SXL). It offers a comfortable ride, a quiet cabin and good value against the Odyssey and Sienna. Check the power sliding doors, oil-change records on the direct-injected V6, and the anti-theft upgrade.
- Engines: 3.3 liter gdi V6 276 hp 248 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: Minivan
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2015
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software upgrade if turn key ignition; Direct injected V6 oil change records; Check engine light and codes; Infotainment and rear camera; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Power sliding doors and liftgate operation; Rear climate control operation; Seat mechanisms and latches; Brakes and tires for a heavy vehicle; Suspension and steering; Maintenance history.
2015 Kia Sedona
The all-new 2015 Sedona has an SUV-like look, a much nicer cabin and a 276-hp 3.3L direct-injected V6 with a 6-speed automatic (about 18/24 mpg; SXL about 17/22). Trims run from L to the luxurious SXL, with seating for seven or eight and second-row seats that slide and stow upright. Confirm the anti-theft upgrade and recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 3.3 liter gdi V6 276 hp 248 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: Minivan
What changed:
- All new third generation design
- New 276 hp 3.3 liter direct injected V6
- Trims l lx ex sx and sxl
- Slide and stow second row seats
- Seating for seven or eight
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software upgrade if turn key ignition; Direct injected V6 oil change records; Check engine light and codes; Infotainment and rear camera; 6 speed automatic shift quality; Power sliding doors and liftgate operation; Rear climate control operation; Seat mechanisms and latches; Brakes and tires for a heavy vehicle; Suspension and steering; Maintenance history.
2014 Kia Sedona
After a one-year break (no 2013 model), the Sedona returned as a 2014 model with minor updates and the same 3.5L V6 (about 271 hp) and 6-speed automatic, rated about 17/23 mpg. It is the last of the older design; the all-new 2015 Sedona is far more modern, so price a 2014 accordingly. Confirm the anti-theft upgrade by VIN.
- Engines: 3.5 liter V6 271 hp
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: Minivan
What changed:
- Sedona returns after skipping 2013
- Minor updates
- Last year of the second generation
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software upgrade if turn key ignition; 6 speed automatic shift quality; V6 oil leaks and oil change records; Rust and underbody condition; Power sliding doors and liftgate operation; Rear climate control operation; Seat mechanisms and latches; Brakes and tires for a heavy vehicle; Suspension and steering; Maintenance history.
2012 Kia Sedona
The 2012 Sedona carries over the 3.5L V6 (about 271 hp) and 6-speed automatic, rated about 18/24 mpg. Kia then skipped the 2013 model year in the U.S. The second-generation Sedona is a roomy, simple minivan at a low price, but it is older and less refined than the 2015 redesign; check sliding doors, the transmission and the anti-theft upgrade.
- Engines: 3.5 liter V6 271 hp
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: Minivan
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2011
- No 2013 model year followed
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software upgrade if turn key ignition; 6 speed automatic shift quality; V6 oil leaks and oil change records; Rust and underbody condition; Power sliding doors and liftgate operation; Rear climate control operation; Seat mechanisms and latches; Brakes and tires for a heavy vehicle; Suspension and steering; Maintenance history.
2011 Kia Sedona
For 2011 the second-generation Sedona got a new 3.5L V6 (about 271 hp) and a 6-speed automatic in place of the older 3.8L and 5-speed, plus Kia's new 'tiger nose' grille. It is rated about 18/24 mpg city/highway. Sedonas through 2021 with a turn-key ignition qualify for Kia's anti-theft software upgrade, so check the VIN.
- Engines: 3.5 liter V6 271 hp
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: Minivan
What changed:
- New 3.5 liter V6 replaces the 3.8 liter
- New 6 speed automatic replaces the 5 speed
- Updated tiger nose grille and taillights
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software upgrade if turn key ignition; 6 speed automatic shift quality; V6 oil leaks and oil change records; Rust and underbody condition; Power sliding doors and liftgate operation; Rear climate control operation; Seat mechanisms and latches; Brakes and tires for a heavy vehicle; Suspension and steering; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- Anti-Theft Software Upgrade (Turn-Key Ignition Models) (2011–2021)
Kia offered a free anti-theft software upgrade for 2011-2021 Sedona models with a traditional turn-key ignition (no push-button start) after a wave of thefts targeting cars without an engine immobilizer. The update extends the alarm and requires the key fob to unlock the car before it can be started. Eligibility depends on the vehicle's ignition type and VIN.
What to do: If the car has a turn-key ignition, confirm the free anti-theft software upgrade was done (a Kia dealer can install it) and check your insurer's requirements. - Power Sliding Door and Liftgate Operation (2011–2021)
Minivan power sliding doors and liftgates get heavy use. Motors, cables, rollers and sensors can wear, causing doors that stall, reverse, or fail to latch.
What to do: Open and close each sliding door and the liftgate several times during the test drive. - Automatic Transmission Shift Quality (2011–2021)
The Sedona uses a 6-speed automatic through 2018 and an 8-speed from 2019. A heavy, often fully loaded minivan works its transmission hard, so check shift quality and service history.
What to do: Road test with attention to smooth shifts, especially under load. - V6 Engine Maintenance and Oil Level (2011–2021)
The 2015-2021 Sedona's 3.3L V6 is direct-injected, which can build intake carbon over time; both V6s benefit from on-time oil changes. Kia has run engine-related recalls and campaigns on various models, so check the VIN.
What to do: Favor vans with documented oil changes and no warning lights. - Family-Use Interior and Seat Wear (2011–2021)
Minivans often carry kids, pets and cargo. Check seat tracks, the second-row slide-and-stow mechanism (2015-2021), third-row fold mechanisms, rear climate control and interior electronics.
What to do: Test every seat, latch and the rear climate control before buying. - Sedona Generation, Model Year and Carnival Disambiguation (2011–2021)
There was no 2013 Sedona in the U.S. 2011-2014 vans use a 3.5L V6 and 6-speed automatic; 2015-2021 vans use a 276-hp 3.3L V6, with a 6-speed through 2018 and an 8-speed from 2019. The Kia Carnival replaced the Sedona for 2022.
What to do: Confirm the year, trim and transmission before comparing prices.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, transmission, equipment, and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls, service campaigns, and completed remedies. For turn-key ignition Sedonas, also confirm the anti-theft software upgrade.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Honda Odyssey
- Toyota Sienna
- Chrysler Pacifica
- Dodge Grand Caravan
- Chrysler Town & Country
- Nissan Quest
- Kia Carnival
- Kia Sorento
Questions this guide answers
- What generation is this Kia Sedona?
- Was there a 2013 Kia Sedona?
- What engine and transmission does this Sedona have?
- Does this Sedona need the anti-theft software upgrade?
- How many people does the Sedona seat?
- What changed on the 2019 Sedona?
- Is the Sedona the same as the Kia Carnival?
- What should I inspect on a used Sedona?
- What recalls should I check by VIN?
- What similar minivans should I consider?