Just bought my Kia EX one week ago, paid about 900 above invoice then minus rebate. I think it was a great value for the money. I have 250 miles on it already. Anyways, On trips greater than 15 minutes my wife and I seperately noticed a strange odor. It was kind of sweet smell kind of like a hint of antifreeze, coming from the engine bay. A thorough check with the engine running and still could not trace origin, no sign of liquid leaks or any other. Seller thought might be preservative/protectant they spray the engine with at the factory burning off but also said smell should have abated after 50 miles or so. Service didn't feel there was any reason to keep it since there was no obvious problems. Anyone have the same problem or sensation?
Strange odors "burning off" in new cars is pretty common. Unless someone here specifically relates that smell to a known problem, I'd give it a few weeks to see if it fades away. Steve Host SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Hi all, I am about to purchase EX in Chicagoland area with abs,sunroof,homelink. I got an offer of $300 over invoice which gives me total with rebate -> $19,910.00. Not including tax, title,doc fees... Is this a good deal ? Since, it's so closed to the year end for the 02 models. Would Kia come up with more rebates near the 08/2002 when 03 model comes out ? I am not in a hurry to buy the van. By reading this forum, I have not found any price info in recent days. Any advice on anything before purchasing this van. Thanks in advance for any input,
I too think it's the normal new car odor. There is a lot of undercoating on the Sedona. In my experience, some of it is just melting and gives off a slight odor. It took a good month for the new car smell to disappear. This is all of course exterior odor and not interior.
robertw284, we too had a coolant-type smell the first few weeks of ownership. It wasn't really a coating "burning off" plastic smell, we had that, too. Suspect it was either that the coolant was overfilled at the factory (level dropped initially, then stabilized), or that the windshield wiper fluid was contaminated, and fluid running back off the windshield and onto the engine was causing the smell. The factory mix of wiper fluid was very strong and seemed to have its own sort of coolant smell, and left obvious thick crystals all over the windshield and front windows where it dried. Smell seemed to go away after I flushed it with water and added new fluid.
skoo10edm, as someone who paid $18,900 for an LX with nothing 5 months ago, I'd say that's a GREAT deal. It's all relative - right now that sounds like a price that would be hard to beat. Since you're not in a hurry, you may find a little better price on an '02 a month or two down the road as the '03s hit, but keep in mind that most shoppers have had a hard or impossible time obtaining an EX with ABS, but without having to pay for leather. Hopefully ABS will be standard on the '03s.
We purchased our EX last weekend at Johnson's Kia in Crystal River Florida. We paid dealer invoice which included approx. $550 dealer holdback and $450 marketing/advertising that Kia charges the dealers. The van came with leather. moonroof and homelink. We received the rebate. Total cost of the van including tax, tag, title and dealer prep fees ($299) was $22,411. I felt it was a pretty fair deal. We only have about 200 miles on it thus far and are very pleased with the exception of the A/C. We often experience 90 plus degrees here and in the middle of the day the air conditioner seems to really struggle. The recirculate button doesn't help much. I've talked to the local dealer and he suggested that possibly the a/c heater control isn't closing properly. I plan on taking it in after we've driven it a little more to see if anything else needs to be adjusted. If anyone else has had their a/c problems resolved please let me know how. Thanks!
Where would one find the vehicles' production date? Does the VIN # have the date buried within the 'stream'? All I can find in the paper work is date of entry into the USA.
Not a Sedona Owner, but I am a Sportage Owner, but you can go to http://www.kiausaparts.com and enter your VIN number and find the production date there.
The production date on my driver side door pillar shows Feb. 7. The one I received initially doesn't work consistently anyway, so two of them probably wouldn't do me much good. I read here that someone had an aftermarket remote entry system installed. I will probably do the same.
Sorry to hear about the A/C problems many are having. It's been 90+ here and our van's A/C has been great. In fact, the only issues we have with the van are the keyless entry being flaky and an annoying rattle coming from the back seats.
Finally had the EX loaded with passengers (4 adults and 2 kids) on a 260 mile round trip. The temps were 90-95 in SoCal. Had the A/C on and it kept the van cold. The rear passengers were even complaining of it being too cold so I turned it down for the rear.
Last week, a strange clicking noise starting coming from the AC/fan. Long story short, the AC blower motor needs replaced (technical word for fan???) Part is on back order (not a good sign) and it will be about a week til we get the van back.
On a different note, the dealer gave us a 2002 Kia Optima as a loaner. Nice little car.
OK, Sedona owners, I need your opinions. I've been following this discussion for some time, as well as others, because I've found the Sedona EX to be an intriguing mix of price and features. However, I'm concerned about dependability, or, if you prefer, reliability.
My spouse has grown weary of shoe-horning three kids (two in car seats) in the back of our very dependable '93 Camry, so the time has come to take the minivan plunge. I've sort of narrowed the search to a new Sedona EX or a used (shudder) Toyota Sienna (2000-2001, preferably XLE). I'm well-aware of the Toyota engine oil sludge/gel issue, and I really don't need any additional commentary on the subject.
While the Kia warranty is a plus, I find having a vehicle in the shop to be frustrating, at best, especially when you're paying ~$400 a month for the privilege to do so. So, owners, what are your experiences with respect to the dependability of Sedonas? Also, please state your odometers, so I'll have an idea for how you're holding up. Kindest regards.
I had the same concern with buying a Sedona, but the long warranty tipped the scales. We've had our Sedona EX since February. 4,600 miles later, it hasn't been back to the dealer for anything (I changed the oil and filter myself around 2,000 miles). Little things I'll have them look at when I get around to it:
* a definite left pull (I keep the tires at 35 psi, but the van pulls left even in the right lane of an expressway)
* cracked plastic strip in cargo area floor , just inside the tailgate. I dropped one of the seats while removing it, and I'm hoping the dealer will fix it as a warranty item.
* would like to get the potential low-speed impact airbag deployment issue resolved by having the computer reprogram that was mentioned in a letter to Kia owners a couple months back.
I think that's it. Our 2002 Sedona EX, green/tan outside and tan leather inside, with all options except rear spoiler was $1,000 off MSRP-- $23,930 - $1,000 = $22,930. No trade-in involved. It seems that prices are now even better than a few months ago. Even though we were paying far less for this van than for competing new vans, and even though I was expecting to really like this vehicle, it has exceeded our expectations.
The van is a great value. It has lots of nice options and performs quite well. Smooth, quiet, and comfortable. We are doing just fine without power rear doors, and I doubt that the absence of traction control or all-wheel drive will be a big deal here in Michigan winters. We don't need a rear-seat TV/VCR/DVD system yet, plus I wouldn' have paid the inflated price for a factory-installed unit anyway. Those are the 3 biggest features that minivan buyers won't find on Sedona but will find on certain competitors.
Good luck with your choice. The Sienna is an excellent van, but for my money I think I'd take a new Sedona instead of a 2 year-old Sienna. Not to belabor the sludge issue, but that would concern me more than the relatively unknown Sedona reliability.
From what most folks are reporting here, the Sedona is well put together with relatively few problems in the first year of ownership. Only time will tell how reliable/durable the Sedona is in the long-term, but I am becoming more optimistic with each passing mile.
To Ringlord I have 13,000 miles on my EX now and only trips back to dealer have been for oil changes. Mine was built Aug 2001 and the build date is in the drivers door sticker. My only rattles are slight ones from the rear seats when empty, which is probally somewhat normal since all the seats are removable. The van steers straight as an arrow down the road and with three trip from Virginia to Flordia has been a joy to drive. Airconditiong seem to do a pretty good job. Mileage has been in the 23- 24 MPG range on the highway.
I read a newspaper ad today and seems like they increase Kia's rebate tomorrow by $1K.
Rio $2K Spectra forgot Optima/Sedona/Sorento are $3K
Too bad, i just bought my 2nd Kia few days ago, which is a RIO with AT/AC for $6995 after all rebates, including $1K fatory rebate and $1K loyalty rebate.
My Sedona only has 3500 miles on it. I had one problem at about 700 miles that was a bad ignition coil that was fixed promptly at no charge for anything including the tow, which wasnt necessary... You wont be dissapointed if you decide to purchase a Sedona.. you probably can get a real good deal on a 2002 model ( go for the EX ).. I had lots of people offer compliments on the van and couldnt believe the price paid with all of the extras included.. Toyota's are great , I had a Camry for 12 years and it's still chugging along but if you've priced a new Sienna you will save thousands by going with the Sedona.. We even have Ody01 on board with us now...good luck with your decision..... :>)
I have over 11,000 miles on my EX. The only significant complaint I have thus far is the wimpy air conditioning in mine. Make sure you check it out on the model before you buy.
Our family (me, my wife and two boys 10 & 11 yo) went van shopping in April to replace a 1994 Ford Aerostar. I've always looked at vehicles as a way to get from point A to point B and I am very price conscience. Had a poor salesman at the local Chrysler dealer brow-beat down to $14,900 for a basic Voyager with very few extras and I was ready to make a deal. At that point the wife and kids vigorously protested that they wanted more, so to maintain family harmony I agreed to at least look for something with a few bells and whistles.
Extensive research on Edmunds led me to the Sedona (which I had never heard of before). After taking a test drive, the entire family fell in love with this van. The last week in April we bought a Ruby Red EX with leather, sunroof and Homelink for $22,000 (a little more than $1000 off the sticker).
To date we have 2200 miles and our only problem has been that the power passenger seat will no longer adjust (probably just a short in the switch). I will have the dealer address it when I take it in for an oil change next week. The other problems discussed on this message board have not been an issue for us. AC works great, no seat rattle, no pulling to the left or right. Customer Service has been great so far (overnight delivery to our house of a missing floor mat). I hope the dealer service is as responsive.
So far our experience has been very positive and the entire family still loves this van. My only regret is that I didn't get the rebate (was not offered in April). If I were you, I'd forget about the used Sienna and buy a Sedona before the rebate ends.
So far with 4200 miles on our EX, we've only had it in once to replace a faulty rear cargo lamp. And the keyless remote works only most of the time. In town gas mileage seems consistent at around 15 mpg. Most folks are reporting 22-23 on highway. But take a look at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's website on the "Damage Repair Costs in Low-Speed Crash Tests at 5 MPH" at
Repair costs appear much higher than most other vans. I've noticed the sheet metal is thinner than most vehicles I've seen.
As mentioned earlier, it may be a little tight for a family of more than four. For trips, we fold the rear seats for plenty of cargo room. With a third child in a rear seat, this compromises some of this room for there is not much room behind these seats. Also, the roof rack is rated at only 100 lbs.
All problems thus far (big and small): 1. Leaking windshield wiper fluid pump: pump replaced, no further problems 2. Check engine light 3x: each time, the dealer said it was a "loose gas cap".....don't really believe that story, but never caused a severe problem other than the annoyance 3. Front tires have needed balancing 2x 4. As of last week, AC blower motor needs replaced. 5. rear seat rattles: self remedied. Long story ("system" change). Just secured the seat back to the frame with a strap.
Other issues: Power steering pump has a considerable whine....similar to GM p/u's of early 90's.
Took our EX out for the family vacation 3 kids 2 adults. Removed one of the rear seats to make for room ( 5 day trip 500 miles). Thought room would be a concern at first, but had plenty with the one seat removed. So far, we love the van. No problems at this point( 4400 miles). AC on ours works great. Had fan on 1 and was cold at times. Turned it off twice for a little while on trip because I started to get cold. 85 - 90 degree weather. Seems to make a big difference when you have the rear air on as well. Sister bought a 2002 Odyssey just after we got our Sedona. They went on the same trip with us. I like the Honda's extra room and slightly more refined ride. But having three kids the split rear seats is the better option for us. They only have two, so they folded down the rear seat. Don't know why, but the Sedona to me just feels better. Its a very pleasant feeling to sit in it and to drive it. The Honda just didn't feel the same way. We also have the moonroof which I think is great. It really relieves the feeling of being trapped in the car with the kids. Averaged about 23 mpg about 85% highway miles. Would definately recomend this van, especially at the prices available now. Make sure you buy it from a place that you trust will take care of you. That's propably as important as anything.
Coming up on 5000 miles with no problems - not even minor ones - to report. I'll be driving my LX from New York to Florida and back in the next couple of weeks and I'll report on the trip when I get back. I was not much of a van person (more of the 2-seater sports car type) but you can't get 7 people in a Miata. I must say that I've come to really enjoy driving this van. It feels solid on the road, maneuvers well and has excellent pick-up. It is quite comfortable to drive.
I forgot to mention to ringlord that Sedona comes standard with a roof rack (or is it standard only on the EX?). Even though it's rated for only 100 pounds, it's nice to have it standard, with a factory look, instead of needing to pay extra for one down the road.
Roof rack rating is pretty std for most vans. Common sense when you think about it...driving through the mountains or in the flatlands with large wind gusts, would you like to have lots of weight sitting up nice and high? (Ask SUV drivers who routinely do barrel rolls when they try to take curves like in their sports cars and the truck flips when the tires break free) When you add weight up high, you change your handling CG.
Anyone have any skinny on the '03 Sedona model? Other than the Aug date to dealers, I've heard nothing, and have found nothing on the 'net. For less than 2 months away, that is pretty tight. Still looking, but getting ready to jump in.
There is no subsitute for quality. If Kia includes a loaner, which you will need, go for it. Because Kia is dead last in quality, again. Get the motor flush ($100) and buy the Toyota, it'll be worth more in 3 years then the Sedona. Or go for a Honda, the are showing up in stock and under invoice I hear.
Toyota Tops Vehicle Quality Study
Thu May 30, 5:21 PM ET
By Michael Ellis
DETROIT (Reuters) - Toyota Motor Corp. (news - web sites) scored the best marks ever on a benchmark survey of vehicle quality, while General Motors Corp. climbed to third place, the highest ranking ever for a U.S. automaker, people familiar with the study said on Thursday.
Toyota again dominated the annual J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Survey, which polled more than 65,000 buyers during their first 90 days of ownership about their initial impressions and problems with 2002 model year vehicles.
Among major automakers, Toyota averaged 107 problems per 100 vehicles, down from 115 last year. Honda Motor Co. (news - web sites) Ltd. followed in second place again with 113, down from 133.
Hyundai Motor Co. Ltd. improved to 156 from 192, followed by Subaru at 157 versus 183, Isuzu at 195 from 192, Suzuki at 210 versus 234, and Kia at 212 versus 267.
Sedona LX more feature $10,000 less cost Toyota Sienna LE. Not read many problem Sedona in Town Hall. Read many problem Sienna also sludge problem all 3.0L Toyota V6 engine. Disagree darthpecker comment Toyota quality. Read too many Toyota problem Town Hall and newspaper last few years. Sienna quality much lower old Toyota. Odyssey LX nice van but $6000 more Sedona LX. Sedona best buy.
Smaller Sedona same size engine Odyssey, less power, less gas mileage, much lower price sell at discount. Sedona better space driver and front passenger leg and foot room. Sedona nice quiet ride as Odyssey. Unless need Magic Seat and lots room, Kia Sedona best buy for $6000 less. Large, comfortable Odyssey most power, most space luggage, almost best mileage still have waiting list to sell at MSRP.
On what are you basing your negative Sedona comments? The vehicle seems well built. The overall package is an excellent value.
Calling the Sedona a risky or poor choice based solely on a cumulative brand-level JD Power initial quality survey is doing the other participants here a disservice.
Agree early Kia, Hyundai, Daewoo quality not at top. Koreans learned fast to make quality vehicle. New Kia and Hyundai good quality. Kia low price with long warranty = good bargain.
Yes, indeed, we found our Sedona to be a very capable winter vehicle. As my compatriate Canuck Sedona owners can likely attest, the amount of weight over the driven wheels makes for little wheel spin. We found it very easy to start out at lights without spinning, even on very slippery surfaces. Even when braking, I had to deliberately invoke the ABS to see if it was working.
On winter highways the vehicle is extremely sure-footed, especially in bad conditions. This is the best vehicle in cross winds that I have ever driven. Absolutely rock solid.
So, no worries, Hokum. You have a great winter vehicle.
We have been looking at the Sedona for a couple months now.I've enjoyed reading all your posts and getting a feel for it through you all.
My question I'm wondering about is,that I think Atlanta where we live must be to into their Odysseys,Siennas and keeping up with the Jones because that is ALL you see around here.I have not seen 1 Sedona! The Kia dealer near us are selling the LX for $14,495 with a $2000 rebate and 0% financing! I don't think they can get rid of them here.We are interested in the Ex and will probaly purchase one in August.We really like them and it sounds like you all do too.Thanks for making it easier for us from your firsthand knowledge.
I appreciate everyone's insightful comments, with the possible exception of ody01, who, in my opinion, didn't have much constructive information to impart, considering that he doesn't own the Sedona.
After driving:
- a couple of new Sedona EX's (moonroof, leather, H/L, two-tone), - a Toyota-certified 2001 Sienna LE (18K miles), - a new 2002 Nissan Quest SE, - and a 2000 Honda Odyssey EX (35K miles),
we chose the Toyota for its ride quality, flexibility for our intended use, fit-and-finish, and the certified warranty.
I still have my doubts regarding the Sedona's longevity (5+ years), plus the wife simply found the interior too confining and "cheap" feeling. The A/C wasn't particularly inspiring in either of the Sedonas that we tested, though I suppose its inadequacies could have been corrected. It was also somewhat disconcerting to learn that BOTH vehicles that I selected to test drive could not be started due to an alleged problem with battery drain caused by the driver's side power lumbar adjustment; other vehicles had to be substituted. Not to mention that the local dealer likes to play the dealer-installed phantom options game, and that he's the only game in town.
All that said, there's no doubting the apparent value of the feature content of a new Sedona compared to its competitors. I wish all of you good luck with your vehicles. I would not be disappointed to see the Korean products' continue to improve with respect to long-term reliability.
PS: I was, frankly, disappointed with the Odyssey. Though it was by far the most roomy of the vehicles we tested, I was unimpressed by the road noise, ride comfort, and the "twitchy" power doors. Plus the example I drove had apparently been "ridden and put up wet", so to speak. The local dealers are still playing the new markup game on Odysseys, as well, not that I would have chosen or could have afforded a new one. There's not a particularly big used market in my locale, either.
Hey Everyone, we purchased our Sedona EX today!! We could not be happier! It's two-tone, white with silky beige, silky beige leather, ABS, Homelink, Sunroof. Drove out the door at Joe Myers Kia in Houston for $22,500. Thanks to everyone and their information on this post.
The dealer had 2 vans for us to choose from and I found out there IS a difference in the A/C units. With all the dials on full blast and the RECIRC button on, the first van cooled off, but it took a while and the force of the air coming out wasn't very strong. I started the 2nd van and the air coming from the vents was powerful and the van cooled off quickly! I would never have guessed to check the A/C if it wasn't for y'all!
As far as the price, living in a large city has it's advantages. I called all 6 dealers here in Houston and told them what I wanted and what price. Only 2 of them would meet my offer. The dealer we wanted to do business with, came down to match the other dealers when I gave him a signed price offer sheet from one of them. He had the 2 on the lot today, so we bought it from him.
All of the dealers I called wanted to work with me and they all did come down in price, 3 came down to our offer,so they will work with you.
We put the 3 carseats in the van with no problem. We purchased car seat protecters from "Babies r Us". Those are simply rubber mats that protect the seat and keeps the carseats from sliding around and damaging the leather.
Sorry,that ringlord went with the Sienna. Maybe the next time. Hokum, enjoy Colorado! I'm sure you'll miss the Houston heat!
Hey Bluedevils, GO WINGS!!!!!
We'll keep y'all informed on things that are happening!
Can't fault your choice. That's a fine vehicle with a good pedigree.
The only thing I find surprising is that your wife felt the Sedona's interior looked/felt 'cheap.' To me, the interior has a pleasantly upscale, though not totally luxurious, look and feel.
We must have one of the Sedonas with adequate A/C, because on a 90 degree, high-humidity 2 hour trip yesterday, we were plenty cool with the A/C on, recirculate button on, front fan on the lowest speed, and rear fan on the lowest speed. Actually, I had to change the front HVAC to the bilevel setting instead of just the upper vents because my wife was too chilly in the 2nd row. This good performance is in spite of the fact that our chocolate lab generates quite a bit of heat with her panting in the 3rd row! She never seems to settle down.
Good luck with your Sienna and make sure you change the oil at fairly short intervals to avoid any potential headaches with Toyota and the sludging issue. Toyota makes great reliable vehicles, but my personal gut feeling is that there is a design problem(s) in that 3.0L V6 and the engine is more sensitive to deteriorating oil than other engines.
What part of Atlanta are you in? I'm in Duluth and I see a couple of Sedonas around here--all with Mall of Georgia Kia logos--but not many. I can't understand why this whole city drives almost nothing but Odysseys. I have a Chrysler myself and you would think you'd see mostly Dodge or Chrysler vans as they are the best selling nationwide, but it's all Odyssey around here. I was picking up my daughter from camp last week and there were 6 Odysseys waiting with me. I once drove to the pediatricians office and 4 Odysseys practically in a row drove past in the opposite direction. I think it is a bad case of keeping up with the Joneses in Atlanta. Don't get me wrong, I think the Odyssey is a fine van, but it is unbelievable how many there are around here.However, don't let that be the determining factor in what you buy. If you like the Sedona, get it. You are making the payment, not them. You're buying the van for your use, not theirs. Get what you like and you'll do just fine.
I have passed the 500 mile mark and towed for the first time with the new Sedona this weekend. We pull 2 dirt bikes and 1 four wheeler on a 10 foot utility trailer. It doesn't come to the maximum tow weight for the Sedona but it is still a load. The Sedona was a much better tow vehicle compared to the Chrysler Town & Country with the 3.3l v6 that we traded. The extra weight of the Sedona makes it much more stable and that engine pulls very well. It was a great day except for me driving my 2 sons crazy about staying out of the van with their dirty clothes after riding. I would not even let them change clothes after riding inside the van, as usual. I made everyone strip down and change outside to keep the van clean. Try convincing a modest 12 year old boy to drop his drawers out in the open, not an easy sell. Don't remind me of how that will change in 4 to 5 years!
Hi! I'm new to Town Hall, but have been reading all I can about the Sedonas, Odysseys, Windstars, & Villagers. Thank you for sharing your experiences! We have a 95 Villager and are ready to buy. We love our Villager. Have had very few problems, all insignificant. Would probably go with another Villager, but not thrilled with the high prices now that we are looking for new. Could go used, but seems like everything looks very "worn."
Drove a Sedona and loved it. Just having a hard time reconciling the "Buy American" attitude. After reading what many have to say about the domestics, though, it is getting easier to imagine myself in a Korean made vehicle. I feel very reassured of the quality and dependability after reading your posts.
Does anybody know if there are any changes planned for the 2003? We don't need to buy right away, although my husband would very much like it if we did.
The nearest dealer is 90 miles away. Has anybody purchased from either of the dealers in Grand Rapids, Michigan?
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SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
I am about to purchase EX in Chicagoland area with abs,sunroof,homelink. I got an offer of $300 over invoice which gives me total with rebate -> $19,910.00. Not including tax, title,doc fees... Is this a good deal ? Since, it's so closed to the year end for the 02 models. Would Kia come up with more rebates near the 08/2002 when 03 model comes out ? I am not in a hurry to buy the van. By reading this forum, I have not found any price info in recent days. Any advice on anything before purchasing this van.
Thanks in advance for any input,
skoo10edm, as someone who paid $18,900 for an LX with nothing 5 months ago, I'd say that's a GREAT deal. It's all relative - right now that sounds like a price that would be hard to beat. Since you're not in a hurry, you may find a little better price on an '02 a month or two down the road as the '03s hit, but keep in mind that most shoppers have had a hard or impossible time obtaining an EX with ABS, but without having to pay for leather. Hopefully ABS will be standard on the '03s.
We only have about 200 miles on it thus far and are very pleased with the exception of the A/C. We often experience 90 plus degrees here and in the middle of the day the air conditioner seems to really struggle. The recirculate button doesn't help much. I've talked to the local dealer and he suggested that possibly the a/c heater control isn't closing properly. I plan on taking it in after we've driven it a little more to see if anything else needs to be adjusted. If anyone else has had their a/c problems resolved please let me know how. Thanks!
Thanks in Advance!
Sorry to hear about the A/C problems many are having. It's been 90+ here and our van's A/C has been great. In fact, the only issues we have with the van are the keyless entry being flaky and an annoying rattle coming from the back seats.
Last week, a strange clicking noise starting coming from the AC/fan. Long story short, the AC blower motor needs replaced (technical word for fan???) Part is on back order (not a good sign) and it will be about a week til we get the van back.
On a different note, the dealer gave us a 2002 Kia Optima as a loaner. Nice little car.
Hok
Thank you that link was all it took to find out the production date. Thanks! Here it is again: http://www.kiausaparts.com
My spouse has grown weary of shoe-horning three kids (two in car seats) in the back of our very dependable '93 Camry, so the time has come to take the minivan plunge. I've sort of narrowed the search to a new Sedona EX or a used (shudder) Toyota Sienna (2000-2001, preferably XLE). I'm well-aware of the Toyota engine oil sludge/gel issue, and I really don't need any additional commentary on the subject.
While the Kia warranty is a plus, I find having a vehicle in the shop to be frustrating, at best, especially when you're paying ~$400 a month for the privilege to do so. So, owners, what are your experiences with respect to the dependability of Sedonas? Also, please state your odometers, so I'll have an idea for how you're holding up. Kindest regards.
* a definite left pull (I keep the tires at 35 psi, but the van pulls left even in the right lane of an expressway)
* cracked plastic strip in cargo area floor , just inside the tailgate. I dropped one of the seats while removing it, and I'm hoping the dealer will fix it as a warranty item.
* would like to get the potential low-speed impact airbag deployment issue resolved by having the computer reprogram that was mentioned in a letter to Kia owners a couple months back.
I think that's it. Our 2002 Sedona EX, green/tan outside and tan leather inside, with all options except rear spoiler was $1,000 off MSRP-- $23,930 - $1,000 = $22,930. No trade-in involved. It seems that prices are now even better than a few months ago. Even though we were paying far less for this van than for competing new vans, and even though I was expecting to really like this vehicle, it has exceeded our expectations.
The van is a great value. It has lots of nice options and performs quite well. Smooth, quiet, and comfortable. We are doing just fine without power rear doors, and I doubt that the absence of traction control or all-wheel drive will be a big deal here in Michigan winters. We don't need a rear-seat TV/VCR/DVD system yet, plus I wouldn' have paid the inflated price for a factory-installed unit anyway. Those are the 3 biggest features that minivan buyers won't find on Sedona but will find on certain competitors.
Good luck with your choice. The Sienna is an excellent van, but for my money I think I'd take a new Sedona instead of a 2 year-old Sienna. Not to belabor the sludge issue, but that would concern me more than the relatively unknown Sedona reliability.
From what most folks are reporting here, the Sedona is well put together with relatively few problems in the first year of ownership. Only time will tell how reliable/durable the Sedona is in the long-term, but I am becoming more optimistic with each passing mile.
I have 13,000 miles on my EX now and only trips back to dealer have been for oil changes. Mine was built Aug 2001 and the build date is in the drivers door sticker. My only rattles are slight ones from the rear seats when empty, which is probally somewhat normal since all the seats are removable. The van steers straight as an arrow down the road and with three trip from Virginia to Flordia has been a joy to drive. Airconditiong seem to do a pretty good job. Mileage has been in the 23- 24 MPG range on the highway.
Rio $2K
Spectra forgot
Optima/Sedona/Sorento are $3K
Too bad, i just bought my 2nd Kia few days ago, which is a RIO with AT/AC for $6995 after all rebates, including $1K fatory rebate and $1K loyalty rebate.
We even have Ody01 on board with us now...good luck with your decision..... :>)
I guess Honda may as well stop making minivans then.
Extensive research on Edmunds led me to the Sedona (which I had never heard of before). After taking a test drive, the entire family fell in love with this van. The last week in April we bought a Ruby Red EX with leather, sunroof and Homelink for $22,000 (a little more than $1000 off the sticker).
To date we have 2200 miles and our only problem has been that the power passenger seat will no longer adjust (probably just a short in the switch). I will have the dealer address it when I take it in for an oil change next week. The other problems discussed on this message board have not been an issue for us. AC works great, no seat rattle, no pulling to the left or right. Customer Service has been great so far (overnight delivery to our house of a missing floor mat). I hope the dealer service is as responsive.
So far our experience has been very positive and the entire family still loves this van. My only regret is that I didn't get the rebate (was not offered in April). If I were you, I'd forget about the used Sienna and buy a Sedona before the rebate ends.
http://www.hwysafety.org/vehicle_ratings/low_speed_vans.htm
Repair costs appear much higher than most other vans. I've noticed the sheet metal is thinner than most vehicles I've seen.
As mentioned earlier, it may be a little tight for a family of more than four. For trips, we fold the rear seats for plenty of cargo room. With a third child in a rear seat, this compromises some of this room for there is not much room behind these seats. Also, the roof rack is rated at only 100 lbs.
But we love the van. No regrets yet!
All problems thus far (big and small):
1. Leaking windshield wiper fluid pump: pump replaced, no further problems
2. Check engine light 3x: each time, the dealer said it was a "loose gas cap".....don't really believe that story, but never caused a severe problem other than the annoyance
3. Front tires have needed balancing 2x
4. As of last week, AC blower motor needs replaced.
5. rear seat rattles: self remedied. Long story ("system" change). Just secured the seat back to the frame with a strap.
Other issues:
Power steering pump has a considerable whine....similar to GM p/u's of early 90's.
Overall:
Good van at great price. No regrets.
Good luck.
Hok
Averaged about 23 mpg about 85% highway miles. Would definately recomend this van, especially at the prices available now. Make sure you buy it from a place that you trust will take care of you. That's propably as important as anything.
Anyone have any skinny on the '03 Sedona model? Other than the Aug date to dealers, I've heard nothing, and have found nothing on the 'net. For less than 2 months away, that is pretty tight.
Still looking, but getting ready to jump in.
Host-how about you?
Toyota Tops Vehicle Quality Study
Thu May 30, 5:21 PM ET
By Michael Ellis
DETROIT (Reuters) - Toyota Motor Corp. (news - web sites) scored the best marks ever on a benchmark survey of vehicle quality, while General Motors Corp. climbed to third place, the highest ranking ever for a U.S. automaker, people familiar with the study said on Thursday.
Toyota again dominated the annual J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Survey, which polled more than 65,000 buyers during their first 90 days of ownership about their initial impressions and problems with 2002 model year vehicles.
Among major automakers, Toyota averaged 107 problems per 100 vehicles, down from 115 last year. Honda Motor Co. (news - web sites) Ltd. followed in second place again with 113, down from 133.
Hyundai Motor Co. Ltd. improved to 156 from 192, followed by Subaru at 157 versus 183, Isuzu at 195 from 192, Suzuki at 210 versus 234, and Kia at 212 versus 267.
http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/nm/20020530/bs_nm/autos_quality_dc
Disagree darthpecker comment Toyota quality. Read too many Toyota problem Town Hall and newspaper last few years. Sienna quality much lower old Toyota.
Odyssey LX nice van but $6000 more Sedona LX. Sedona best buy.
I think you mean under MSRP.
Unless need Magic Seat and lots room, Kia Sedona best buy for $6000 less.
Large, comfortable Odyssey most power, most space luggage, almost best mileage still have waiting list to sell at MSRP.
Calling the Sedona a risky or poor choice based solely on a cumulative brand-level JD Power initial quality survey is doing the other participants here a disservice.
BlueD/all: How did your Sedona do in the snow?
I know the FWD will help, as well as the weight of the van.....but still wish to ask.
I grew up in the Northern US, so I am experienced with winter driving.
Pls advise
Hok
I've heard others-- I think mcperr-- mention their Sedonas are very snow-worthy.
'preciate your concern.
Fires are about 10 miles from Denver.
Certainly a concern that we will weigh heavily.
But.....duty calls.
Hok
On winter highways the vehicle is extremely sure-footed, especially in bad conditions. This is the best vehicle in cross winds that I have ever driven. Absolutely rock solid.
So, no worries, Hokum. You have a great winter vehicle.
My question I'm wondering about is,that I think Atlanta where we live must be to into their Odysseys,Siennas and keeping up with the Jones because that is ALL you see around here.I have not seen 1 Sedona! The Kia dealer near us are selling the LX for $14,495 with a $2000 rebate and 0% financing! I don't think they can get rid of them here.We are interested in the Ex and will probaly purchase one in August.We really like them and it sounds like you all do too.Thanks for making it easier for us from your firsthand knowledge.
Natalie
After driving:
- a couple of new Sedona EX's (moonroof, leather, H/L, two-tone),
- a Toyota-certified 2001 Sienna LE (18K miles),
- a new 2002 Nissan Quest SE,
- and a 2000 Honda Odyssey EX (35K miles),
we chose the Toyota for its ride quality, flexibility for our intended use, fit-and-finish, and the certified warranty.
I still have my doubts regarding the Sedona's longevity (5+ years), plus the wife simply found the interior too confining and "cheap" feeling. The A/C wasn't particularly inspiring in either of the Sedonas that we tested, though I suppose its inadequacies could have been corrected. It was also somewhat disconcerting to learn that BOTH vehicles that I selected to test drive could not be started due to an alleged problem with battery drain caused by the driver's side power lumbar adjustment; other vehicles had to be substituted. Not to mention that the local dealer likes to play the dealer-installed phantom options game, and that he's the only game in town.
All that said, there's no doubting the apparent value of the feature content of a new Sedona compared to its competitors. I wish all of you good luck with your vehicles. I would not be disappointed to see the Korean products' continue to improve with respect to long-term reliability.
PS: I was, frankly, disappointed with the Odyssey. Though it was by far the most roomy of the vehicles we tested, I was unimpressed by the road noise, ride comfort, and the "twitchy" power doors. Plus the example I drove had apparently been "ridden and put up wet", so to speak. The local dealers are still playing the new markup game on Odysseys, as well, not that I would have chosen or could have afforded a new one. There's not a particularly big used market in my locale, either.
The dealer had 2 vans for us to choose from and I found out there IS a difference in the A/C units. With all the dials on full blast and the RECIRC button on, the first van cooled off, but it took a while and the force of the air coming out wasn't very strong. I started the 2nd van and the air coming from the vents was powerful and the van cooled off quickly! I would never have guessed to check the A/C if it wasn't for y'all!
As far as the price, living in a large city has it's advantages. I called all 6 dealers here in Houston and told them what I wanted and what price. Only 2 of them would meet my offer. The dealer we wanted to do business with, came down to match the other dealers when I gave him a signed price offer sheet from one of them. He had the 2 on the lot today, so we bought it from him.
All of the dealers I called wanted to work with me and they all did come down in price, 3 came down to our offer,so they will work with you.
We put the 3 carseats in the van with no problem. We purchased car seat protecters from "Babies r Us". Those are simply rubber mats that protect the seat and keeps the carseats from sliding around and damaging the leather.
Sorry,that ringlord went with the Sienna. Maybe the next time.
Hokum, enjoy Colorado! I'm sure you'll miss the Houston heat!
Hey Bluedevils, GO WINGS!!!!!
We'll keep y'all informed on things that are happening!
The only thing I find surprising is that your wife felt the Sedona's interior looked/felt 'cheap.' To me, the interior has a pleasantly upscale, though not totally luxurious, look and feel.
We must have one of the Sedonas with adequate A/C, because on a 90 degree, high-humidity 2 hour trip yesterday, we were plenty cool with the A/C on, recirculate button on, front fan on the lowest speed, and rear fan on the lowest speed. Actually, I had to change the front HVAC to the bilevel setting instead of just the upper vents because my wife was too chilly in the 2nd row. This good performance is in spite of the fact that our chocolate lab generates quite a bit of heat with her panting in the 3rd row! She never seems to settle down.
Good luck with your Sienna and make sure you change the oil at fairly short intervals to avoid any potential headaches with Toyota and the sludging issue. Toyota makes great reliable vehicles, but my personal gut feeling is that there is a design problem(s) in that 3.0L V6 and the engine is more sensitive to deteriorating oil than other engines.
The Sedona was a much better tow vehicle compared to the Chrysler Town & Country with the 3.3l v6 that we traded. The extra weight of the Sedona makes it much more stable and that engine pulls very well. It was a great day except for me driving my 2 sons crazy about staying out of the van with their dirty clothes after riding. I would not even let them change clothes after riding inside the van, as usual. I made everyone strip down and change outside to keep the van clean. Try convincing a modest 12 year old boy to drop his drawers out in the open, not an easy sell. Don't remind me of how that will change in 4 to 5 years!
I have been watching this board for a while, and I'm sure he drools, and dreams Silky Beige Sedona at night.
There is always the Trade In, (The Honda Crapesy, with it's extraordinary Resale Value).
There will always be light at the end of the Tunnel, Bored
Drove a Sedona and loved it. Just having a hard time reconciling the "Buy American" attitude. After reading what many have to say about the domestics, though, it is getting easier to imagine myself in a Korean made vehicle. I feel very reassured of the quality and dependability after reading your posts.
Does anybody know if there are any changes planned for the 2003? We don't need to buy right away, although my husband would very much like it if we did.
The nearest dealer is 90 miles away. Has anybody purchased from either of the dealers in Grand Rapids, Michigan?
Thanks again for all your information!