The 2018 KIA Sedona has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 44 owner complaints on file for the 2018 KIA Sedona. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint and 4 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (16), Electrical System (10), Air Bags (4).
Sedona reliability snapshot
78/100
Latest model-year reliability score
4.0/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$495
Avg annual repair cost vs $647 category avg
#1/8
Ranking in minivans · better than 88% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
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Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Engine16
Electrical System10
Air Bags4
Structure2
Unknown Or Other2
Wheels2
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2018 KIA Sedona
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Inspect engine for oil consumption and potential leaks
☐Check for any airbag warning lights on the dashboard
☐Test power sliding doors for proper operation
☐Examine tires for tread separation or unusual wear
☐Verify that all electrical components, including the infotainment system, are functioning correctly
☐Inspect the driver side door for any operational issues
What owners reported
2018 KIA Sedona owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 1 crash, 4 fires and 1 injury to NHTSA for the 2018 KIA Sedona. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints16
ENGINE
Owners report frequent engine failures in the 2018 KIA Sedona, often without warning lights or prior indications of a problem. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as loss of power, excessive oil consumption, and engine seizing, with some cases involving blown head gaskets or cracked engine blocks. These issues typically appear around 90,000 to 108,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, including two reports of engine fires and several instances of power loss while driving at highway speeds, which could lead to dangerous situations. Potential buyers should be aware of the recurring engine problems and the associated repair costs, especially if the vehicle is out of warranty.
Owners report several electrical issues with the 2018 Kia Sedona, notably problems with the starting system, where the vehicle fails to start intermittently despite dashboard lights activating. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle dying unexpectedly, with one instance leading to a fire in the engine compartment and another involving a sudden loss of power while driving. Additionally, multiple owners describe issues with the power sliding doors, including unexpected opening and closing, and sensor failures that can trap individuals. These electrical problems are reported at varying mileages, with some occurring as early as 9,000 to 14,000 miles. Safety implications include one reported crash with injury due to non-deployment of airbags and a fire incident, highlighting potential risks for prospective buyers.
Owners report recurring issues with the airbag system in the 2018 Kia Sedona, primarily involving the airbag warning light illuminating persistently. Complaints frequently mention repeated dealership visits where parts of the airbag system are replaced or software updates are attempted, yet the warning light often reappears shortly after. Issues are noted at various mileage points, including as early as 1,400 miles, and persist over several years. One owner describes a failure of airbags to deploy during a crash, raising potential safety implications. These patterns suggest that prospective buyers should be cautious of unresolved airbag system problems that may require ongoing repairs.
Owner complaints2
STRUCTURE
Owners report issues with the 2018 KIA Sedona's structure, specifically noting problems with the driver side door and paint. Multiple owners describe the driver side door as being stuck in the closed position, with the electric motor failing to operate. Additionally, complaints frequently mention paint peeling as a common issue. These problems do not include specific mileage ranges or timelines. While the door issue could potentially impact entry and exit, no safety implications such as crashes or loss of control are reported. This information could be useful for potential buyers to consider when evaluating the vehicle's condition.
Owner complaints2
WHEELS
Owners of the 2018 KIA Sedona frequently report issues with tire integrity, specifically involving the Kumho Crugen tires. Common symptoms include tread separation and steel belt shifting, which lead to noticeable rattling, shaking, and pulling to one side during highway driving. These issues are reported at relatively low mileages, around 18,870 to 39,444 miles. While no crashes or loss of control are documented, the described symptoms suggest potential safety risks, particularly at high speeds. Prospective buyers should be aware of these tire-related concerns and consider the condition and brand of tires currently on the vehicle.
Owner complaints2
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners of the 2018 KIA Sedona report issues related to the vehicle's front grill design and fuel efficiency. One complaint describes an incident where an object passed through the grill, damaging the air conditioning condenser, suggesting that the grill's design may not adequately protect internal components. Another owner reports that the vehicle's fuel economy does not meet the advertised range of 18-24 MPG, with their Sedona averaging 17 MPG, even with some highway driving. This complaint is noted at around 2,500 miles on the odometer. No safety implications such as crashes or loss of control are mentioned in these complaints.
2018 Sedona recalls (3)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2018 Sedona. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Kia Sedona vehicles equipped with a power sliding door (PSD). The PSD may not auto-reverse when its closing is obstructed.
Consequence: If the door closes on an occupant, there is an increased risk of an injury.
Remedy
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the PSD module software, free of charge. The recall began on June 18, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC164.
AIR BAGSNHTSA 22V031000Jan 25, 2022
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the ACU, and either update the software or replace the unit, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC226.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 19V109000Feb 19, 2019
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Sedona vehicles equipped with manually-adjusted front passenger seats. Over time, the Occupant Detection System (ODS) wiring harness located underneath the front passenger seat may break from the seat being occupied.
Consequence: If a child is in a child seat in the front seat, a broken ODS wiring harness will not prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the child.
Remedy
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will remove the wire harness clip to prevent the wiring harness from breaking. If the harness is found damaged, the front passenger seat cushion will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 19, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC175.
Used-market value
2018 KIA Sedona resale snapshot
$23,374median asking price from 4 listings
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
The 2018 KIA Sedona demonstrates solid reliability, scoring above the segment average. Its score suggests a dependable performance with an overall low risk of serious issues. The distribution of complaints is somewhat concentrated, with the engine and electrical system being the primary areas of concern. However, these issues do not appear widespread enough to significantly impact the model's reliability standing.
The recall count is relatively limited, indicating that the manufacturer has addressed some issues proactively. Other areas such as airbags, structure, and wheels show minimal problems, further reinforcing the vehicle's sound reliability profile.
In summary, the 2018 KIA Sedona presents a low to moderate risk level for potential buyers, making it a reasonably reliable choice within its segment.
What you get in a 2018 KIA Sedona report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
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2018 KIA Sedona — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2018 KIA Sedona reliable?
The 2018 KIA Sedona demonstrates solid reliability, scoring above the segment average. Its score suggests a dependable performance with an overall low risk of serious issues. The distribution of complaints is somewhat concentrated, with the engine and electrical system being the primary areas of concern. However, these issues do not appear widespread enough to significantly impact the model's reliability standing.
How many recalls does the 2018 KIA Sedona have?
3 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2018 KIA Sedona. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2018 KIA Sedona problems?
The most-reported 2018 KIA Sedona problem areas are: Engine (16), Electrical System (10), Air Bags (4).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2018 KIA Sedona?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2018 KIA Sedona, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
