Kia Sedona (2005 and Earlier)

exsedona1

Our Sedona has the Captn's. It serves as a demilitarized zone between the two kids. However I wondered if getting into the back seats would be easier with the mid bench seat.

Did anyone ever find out if the seats are interchangeable? Bench vs Capt'n

bluedevils

1. Someone posted a couple weeks back that the 3rd row bench and 2nd row captain's chairs (Sedona EX) were NOT interchangeable. This person's dealer had mistakenly told him/her that the seats were interchangeable.

2. Captain's chairs definitely have a plus in terms of keeping some space between 2 kids. This can keep things more calm on road trips.

3. I don't recall anyone posting a comparison of 2nd row bench vs. 2nd row captain's chairs re: ease of getting in and out of the 3rd row.

4. To me, the biggest factor in whether the 2nd row bench is more useful is whether it can hold 3 people. The only way I'd prefer a bench to captain's chairs is if the bench could hold 3 kids/adults/car seats. I don't recall the claimed capacity of the Sedona's 2nd row bench. But often, a manufacturer claims a 3-passenger capacity even though 2 is the practical limit.

jrush1948

See my posts in the "Kia Sedona Problems" Thread for my experience with seating. In my opinion the second row bench is not wide enough for two adults to sit comfortably for any long period of time.

bluedevils

If so, that's pretty bad.

jlngwr

I just had my first Sedona problem (maybe this should be on the problem board). The airbag light went on and stays on all the time. After hoping it would "go away" for a week I finally made an appointment to look at it (next week). The mechanic said it was probably a pinched wire which runs under the seat and not to worry that the airbag would suddenly inflate. Anyone else experience this? Will let you know how it works out.

I disagree that the second row bench is not large enough for 2 adults. I think it is very comfortable. The 3rd row is definitely too tight for 3 adults for an extended period of time. Especially when all bundled up for our frigid winters here in upstate NY.

99windstar

Our 02 Sedona has the captains in the second row and we love it! We were a little unsure at first because we had previously only had vans with benches. But it works great and there is easily room for two adults, or two kids, or two car seats.

The space between the two captains is wonderful! No touching if two of the kids sit there.

Our kids are 12, 9, and 6. The 12 year old is very big for his age and can sit comfortably anywhere. But he prefers one of the third row seats. His 9 year old brother usually sits back there with him. That leaves my 6 year old girl in the second row, so sometimes dolls, coloring books, etc. ride in the other captain.

It's great to be able to adjust the two independently, too. Not a factor for you now if you have little kids, but maybe down the road when they're bigger.

We're thinking that on trips we'll take one of the captains out and use the space for storage. That would work with the bench, too - though not as well. All three kids CAN fit on the third row, but it ain't the best option.

One drawback in my opinion is: it seemed easier to get to the third row with the bench in the EX we tested. I guess this is because the bench rides in an offset position - either a little to the left or right. With the captains our kids usually go between them to get to the third row. I think you can "flop" the captains forward for access from the side, but we don't do that.

IMHO: the more captains, the better!

ksedona_2003

The mud flaps are suppose to be genuine Kia parts but they didn't have them in stock so they order them. I'll be getting them this Saturday. I'll post when I get them. With all that research and getting all the info needed for a good deal, I still got suckered from the dealer....:(
But I'm happy with the van and the savings ....:)

hokum

We have had the check engine light appear 5 times. Each time, it has been the "loose gas cap" scenario. I initially thought that this was a line of BS from the dealer.

The 5th time it happened, I went back to the dealer with the attitude that I was going to "get some answers"...I certainly expressed my discontent about this problem. Within 3 minutes, the service manager pulled me into the shop, and physically showed me the gas cap....it was not only loose, none of the threads were even engaged. So essentially, I looked like a fool.

At the end of the day, I had a discussion with the primary driver of the van (wife)...stressing the importance of hearing multiple clicks when screwing on the gas cap.

My point? Since that conversation...we have had no more check engine light/loose gas cap problems. 9 months (+-), and 8k miles.

Additionally, the manual states that when the check engine light comes on, and stays lit, it means that there "may" be a problem, and that the van should be taken to the dealer for inspection. However, when the check engine light comes on and FLASHES....there IS a problem, and the van should be stopped immediately, and towed to the nearest service department.

Something to keep in mind.

RGDS

Hok

excelent3

Good posts Hok and others. My light went out very briefly this morning and I thought great it reset itself and then it came on again. I have not filled up since it first appeared, however I did crank it down good.
Also for you soccer parents, I found that the rear seats can be turned around and with a little persuation can ( they don't grab quite as well in the mounts) be mounted to look out the rear of the van. Would be great at the drive-in if we had any left to go to. Middle seats won't work in this position because the back of the seats will hit front seats at the angle you need to be comfortable. EX3

jrush1948

When I said that the second row bench was not wide enough for two adults I meant two over 200lbs large men riding for four or five hours at a time. Will turning the 3rd row seats around and mounting them so "they don't grab so well" be a safety concern?

bluedevils

I'm pretty sure that excelent3 was recommending this ONLY when the van is stopped, NOT while it's in motion.

hoyahenry

Isn't it around this time of year when they start selling different gas for emmissions reasons? Hmmmmmm.

hoyahenry

Started it up this evening, no more light. So, I suspect it was the gas cap. Quick comment FWIW, I think this is a great case study in the value of these forums!

stever

Yeah, but if you go to the dealer, sometimes you get donuts :-). Only virtual ones on the forums!

Steve, Host

hoyahenry

But, the comfort of my den far exceeds the comfort of any service waiting room I've ever visited. ymmv. ;-)

saber86

I will definately pass it on to my sister in law.

excelent3

AS Bluedevils speculated I only suggested this configuration for recreational events while NOT traveling. You would not be very comfortable in this mode anyway, I don't believe you would have much room for your feet, but with the tailgate up in the rain it would be great!

My check engine light is still on, am monitoring the situation, as I have yet to refill tank since it went on. EX3

guod

Has anyone added a keyless entry for their LX. I am considering buying a Sedona and this is about the only thing I can't live without.

Thanks

Doug

erikklein

JRush, have you gotten the Captains Chairs from your dealer for the 2nd row of your LX? I was anxious to hear if the mount points work properly for them? If so, any idea what the price is on the seats (for two)? Just want to keep it in mind for the future if my 2 boys start pounding each other in the 2nd row.

erikklein

I've got the same problem ... have had it since day 3 of ownership. First trip back to the dealer fixed it for 25 miles. Been on ever since ... no time to go to another dealer with it yet.

hoyahenry

All of the rear seats in the van are out right now, so I took advantage of the opportunity to Lexol everything leather related.

Okay, the process. Wash with the cleaner, rinse. Coat/protect with the conditioner, and remove (I can feel the residue even if I can't see it) with a soft dry cloth.

Two hours, more or less with some disruptions to treat all 6 seats, and the steering wheel too - what the heck!

Thoughts? Is this the right process, and/or am I doing something wrong?

How often? Monthly, quarterly, biweekly?

jrush1948

I have been posting in the KIA problems forum my experience with the seating situation. Dealer is in contact with his District manager to get me the captains chairs. Check the KIA web site for a link to prices of KIA parts.

excelent3

Hoya-

You did fine. I don't think you can overtreat your leather with this stuff, it's one of the best out there. I would apply every 6 months, unless you are in a hot (dry) climate like Phoenix, go more often. It goes a long way. My passenger seat leather in the Sedona now is starting to show that rich "marbled" look. The other seats rarely get used. My burgundy leather Lazyboy in my living room looks new after ten years, I put it on twice a year. EX3

hoyahenry

You're absolutely correct. There's quite a noticeable difference in texture feel and color. I do find it difficult to rub off the residue - mostly because I can't see it, even on the gray leather.

Every six months is about as often as I planned, so that's a bit of a relief.

bluedevils

hoya, your procedure sounds fine. Not quite sure what you mean by 'rinse' - simply wiping off with a clean wet cloth? Lexol seems quicker to apply than many other conditioners, which are thicker and must be rubbed in more thoroughly.

I'd say you're treating your leather better than most folks by cleaning and Lexol-ing every 6 months. Esp. if your Sedana spends lots of time out of the sun (e.g. in a garage), 6 months should be plenty often.

excelent3

I wanted to add to the leather treatment discussion and share a few more bits regarding my experience so far treating the seats in the Sedona. The leather in my Sedona felt dryer than normal at first. Even after I put on a couple applications (Lexol) when I first got my Sedona. I also did the steering wheel and the headrests. Bare in mind the entire seat is not leather, just portion you actually sit on. The rest is vinyl, so get out your Armor All or whatever protectant you use for that application. I did not make a noticeable difference after the second application, so I figured enough. But now 9 months later in effect it is getting "broken in" just like a baseball glove or shoes, it has a different feel to it compared to the other seats, that rarely get sat on. Those seats still have that factory feel. My driver seat is showing those classic lines and wrinkles in it from normal use, but not showing wear at all. There is nothing better than well kept piece of leather, and of course the smell of fine leather is wonderful. I have lost some weight recently and am able to get into some clothes I haven't worn for quite some time. I just Lexoled a soft leather skin(deer)jacket that I purchased in Europe 15 years ago, and wow what a difference it made. It brought it back to like new condition. It really feeds the leather, brings out the richness, and keeps its soft. I have yet to find a BETTER product and I have tried others.

The engine light is still on. I refueled and have started the vehicle more than 5 times since. It runs fine, and it's not flashing so I am not bothered by it, however when I take it in for its 30K checkup ot will be dealt with then for sure. Hopefully it will reset itself before that. EX3

hoyahenry

BD, yes, rinsing with the clean wet cloth is what I meant. Unfortunately, the Sedona does not usually get the one car garage. I did buy a sunshield to put in the front window. When I think to put it up, that helps.

EX, 30K. Wow. We're still working to 8100, but our yearly mileage average is low. Our seats are breaking in similarly according to your description; the driver's more than any other seat.

I'd say our CE light stayed on for a good 8-10 starts, but only 50 miles worth of driving, fwiw.

excelent3

No, I don't have 30K yet (I have 16K) but I won't be taking it in until then (I hope) I just noticed yesterday I have a fluttering/ticking noise braodcasting from my front fan motor with every revolution. It seems to have disipated slightly, but it was bordering on annoying. So NOw I have 2 things I am watching. Worse things could happen I guess. EX3

dstauff12

Where can I find this great sounding product? Is it at most stores or do I have to order it somewhere? Thanks for the info.

stever

I'm in cowboy country and all the feed and tack stores carry Lexol. Wouldn't surprise me to see it in Wal-Mart either though.

Steve, Host

bluedevils

I've not noticed it at any major retailers (Wal-Mart, KMart, etc) but most of the big chain auto parts stores should have it. I bought a bottle at Murray's Discount Auto Parts.

grandtotal

Do you park near trees? It's probably a leaf or something that has made it past the filter.

soon2bkiaowner

I finally got my new Sedona. It is Ruby Red/Platnum, with everything except the spoiler. I drove it home last night at a little after 10. I kept reading about how difficult the sales people have been for a lot of people, but my salesman was honest, and helpful. I paid $50 under invoice. I think he just wanted to get me out the door so he could go home.

The only problem I had was he wanted to charge $500 Prep fee. I refused telling him it was highway robbery and I could take the plastic off myself. He said O.K. so I will be doing just that in the morning. I had to work today so I haven't had any time to scope out everything yet. All I managed to do was fix the time on the clock.

I just wanted to thank everyone posting here for their help, info and advice

navyair

Mrs. decided to wait for 2003 model after liking 2002.

Local dealer said Silky Beige EX hard to get, but solid colors ARE available in 2003 model EX's.

TWO Internet "quick quotes" from dealers said "no dice" to anything but two tone (wife hates two tone).

Anyone have a solid color 2003 Sedona EX , or know of one? Thanks, gang.

stever

Soon2bkiaowner, congrats on the new ride. Lots of Ody owners wouldn't let the dealer prep their vans - didn't want all those swirls put into the sheet metal when they washed it. Best check the tire pressure - it's often over-inflated to avoid flat spots until the van sells.

I think I'd tell Kia USA (or whatever the corporate entity is) that your dealer is charging for prepping. I bet that's part of their responsibility per their franchise agreement.

Steve, Host

excelent3

You might be right Grandtotal as it has disappeared, probably a "helicopter" from on eof the numerous maple trees shedding here. I'm still waiting for my service engine light to go out however. EX3

mabasedona

Hi, my DH and I have been looking at Sedonas. Actually found some 2002s today, and took one for a test drive. Drove the Sorrento also but liked the Sedona better. Ran into a major problem, though, when I tried to remove one of the third tier seats after the Sedona test drive. Couldn't get it out. Salesman couldn't either. Had to call another (service guy?) out, who managed after several unsuccessful attempts. He told me I needed to rock it up and down a bit. I tried again; still no success. I watched this guy do it several times, noting that he was having major trouble, and also noting that the seat mechanism (wheels, etc.)was gouging up the plastic around the locking mechanism. I finally gave it up (that's when we decided to try the Sorrento)
This is a crucial issue for me; I'll be the main driver of this vehicle and don't want to have to fight the seats every time I want to remove/install one. Also turned off by the easy way the damage occurred.
Questions (and sorry this post is SOOO long):
1)Any Sedona owners having this problem, and if so what did you do?
2)Would you advise just factoring the problem into the negotiations, and demand that they fix it before driving it off, or should we look for a different vehicle? They're offering $1,200 cash back to move it.
Thanks in advance to all who post an answer!

vanphan

Haven't had this problem or heard of it from other posters but I'd make sure they fix it before signing any papers and laying down any cash. Don't wait 'til just before driving off. If you try to remove the 3rd seats from another Sedona you'll find it fairly easy except they are somewhat heavy. Sounds like more of a fluke than anything. I wouldn't accept it.

Are they taking the $1200 off this vehicle just because of the seat problem or is this $1200 off sticker? Are they dealing on just this one or others as well? They should be on a '02. And it looks like the $1000 rebate or 0% 60 month financing is still available.

jondot

I have had my EX for 14 months and have 17K miles on it. The seats have been out numerous times without a problem
There have been one or two previous posts on seat removal problems, but it's a fixable problem. Make them fix it and then try all four seats before you sign the papers. The seats are moderately heavy, but one un-disabled man can manage the task; now, the bench seats of Chrysler products ARE tough to handle.
Go for the Sedona--you'll love it.

dkal

It seems that the Kia Sedona LX model only has bench seating for the second row. I cannot seem to find anywhere in the cars specification listing where it states this difference. I just test drove the LX and the second row bench seats are horrible. There is no space underneath the second row for a persons feet. And as I still have one kid in a child seat, the lever action 2nd row bench seat movement is pointless. Can you get and LX with captains chairs in the second row?

exsedona1

Just a safety note about re installing the seats.
My kid and I pulled out the removable seats to put down plastic to protect the carpet. Upon trying to re install the seats we found it difficult to get them to lock back into place. Several times they "seemed" to be locked, but were not. It took a good amount of slamming force to get them to lock. This maybe due to their newness. I put my kids in these seats and I'm sure most of you do too. Make sure they are locked in place when re installing them.

dkal

It seems that the Kia Sedona LX model only has bench seating for the second row. I cannot seem to find anywhere in the cars specification listing where it states this difference. I just test drove the LX and the second row bench seats are horrible. There is no space underneath the second row for a persons feet. And as I still have one kid in a child seat, the lever action 2nd row bench seat movement is pointless. Can you get and LX with captains chairs in the second row?

mcperr

We have owned our EX for 15+ pleasureable months and have removed at least one rear seat numerous times. The seats are very easy to remove. Any that are not are likely defective or damaged. While reinstalling it is important that the front hooks are completely forward in their respective slots. Otherwise the rear catches will not fully latch. I find the seats easier to manuever if the seatback is folded forward.

Still trying to find second and third row (rubber) floor mats. Does anyone have a source to recommend?

bvolks

I recently purchased a set of all weather floor mats from MacNeil. I have them in the second row. There are two of them that interlock. I will be ordering another set for the back seat. The interior on my Sedona is Beige...so I can only speak to that color of mat. They do in fact match the color of my interior--note I have the 2003 Sedona EX with the leather option. I'd stay away from the black mats. We ordered them for my wife's CRV. They have a red boarder line around the middle of the mat. Here's their web site:

www.weathertech.com/store/prodsearch.asp?item_group_id=28

bvolks

I currently have the MacNeil all weather mats for the 2nd row seats. When I ordered them originally, I didn't think they would fit the 3rd row...but they do.

stenson

I am in the process of purchasing a new minivan and seriously considering the Sedona. Test drove it and everything. Was a little concerned about steering ( thought a little loose) and braking ( little soft) but overall satisified. I am just a little hesitant about purchasing it since it is still new to the market and not sure about its longevity and resale value! I need your help!! Please let me know how you like this car so far(2002 & 2003) owners. I need your input!! Good or bad! I would appreciate any advice you could give me.

Gary

ksedona_2003

It's a hard rubber and you should be able to paint them. It's not those very soft flexible rubber. Just went over my first 500 miles and love the van.....:)

xaf

Forget about comparing your van purchase with a car, the ride of every minivan is more truck like, thus the steering is different, and the braking is longer( the Sedona is #1 weight wise),...

The Sedona is new to North America, but not to the rest of the world. It has been winning awards in the UK for used car value

http://www.kia.co.uk/awards.html

Based on what I have seen posted on Edmunds, the Sedona seems to be having fewer problems than the Honda and Toyota vans. Without the extra cost those brand names carry.

The MPV is good, but I personally found it "confining", has a magic seat if you need one. The domestic minivans are just that, nice features, mediocre reliability, medium price, although the Caravan is nice looking.(used to own one, traded it for the Sedona before the GC imploded)

xaf

The Sedona is also well equipped for towing, with minimal extra costs to set it up

just another consideration for your purchase

carspy01

Excellent postings - I fully agree.
dkal, #2591 and 2593: Nope, you'll be stuck with the second row bench in the LX in Northamerica.
Get the EX, and enjoy!