The 2009 KIA Sedona is a versatile minivan from Kia's second generation (2006-2014), known for offering immense passenger and cargo space at a competitive price point. Available primarily in LX and EX trims, it typically retailed new between approximately $21,000 and $27,000. It stood out as a compelling family hauler due to its strong value proposition, comfortable ride, and impressive list of standard features for its class, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious families.
The Good
The 2009 KIA Sedona offers significant advantages, particularly its exceptional value and cavernous interior space, appealing to practical buyers seeking affordability without compromising utility. Its comfortable ride and quiet cabin make long family trips enjoyable, a key emotional draw. While not a performance leader, its V6 engine provides adequate power, and for its price, it delivers a robust package of features and convenience.
The Bad
Potential buyers of a 2009 KIA Sedona should be aware of several known weaknesses. Common issues can include problems with the power sliding doors, premature rust on certain undercarriage components like the subframe, and occasional electrical system glitches. Some owners also report transmission concerns and less refined interior materials compared to its Japanese rivals, impacting long-term perception of quality.
2009 KIA Sedona: Quick Overview
The 2009 KIA Sedona boasts a straightforward but capable spec sheet, making it a functional family vehicle.
- Engine: It is powered by a single engine option across both trims: a 3.8-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine.
- Horsepower: This V6 engine produces a respectable 250 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 253 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 RPM.
- Transmission: Power is delivered through a five-speed automatic transmission.
- Fuel Economy: The EPA estimated fuel economy ratings are approximately 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway for a combined rating of 18 MPG. These figures are typical for minivans of its era.
- 0-60 MPH: Independent tests often report 0-60 MPH acceleration times in the range of 8.5 to 8.8 seconds, which is adequate for daily driving and highway merging.
- Towing Capacity: When properly equipped with the optional towing package, the 2009 Sedona has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, suitable for small trailers or recreational equipment.
- Trim Levels and Features:
- LX Trim: The base LX model comes well-equipped with standard features such as 16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning with front and rear controls, power windows and door locks, heated power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, and an AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary input. Safety features include dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control.
- EX Trim: Stepping up to the EX trim adds a host of convenience and comfort features. These include 17-inch alloy wheels, power sliding doors, a power driver's seat, automatic climate control (three-zone), fog lights, a roof rack, an upgraded audio system with a six-CD changer, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, and body-color side moldings. Optional features on the EX could include leather seating surfaces, a rear-seat entertainment system (DVD), a sunroof, and power-adjustable pedals, further enhancing its appeal as a family hauler.
2009 KIA Sedona Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | KIA |
| Model | Sedona |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Minivan |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | South Korea |
| Manufacturing City | SOHARI |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4365 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 9000 pounds |
| Overall Height | 69.3 inches |
| Overall Length | 189.4 inches |
| Overall Width | 78.1 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 113.8 inches |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | Gasoline V-6 3.8L/231 |
| Engine Size | 3.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Speed-Sensitive Power Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $21,245 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2009 KIA Sedona Have?
The 2009 KIA Sedona, while generally a solid value, has several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns that potential owners should be aware of. One of the most prominent and potentially serious issues is subframe corrosion. This is particularly prevalent in vehicles operated in "salt belt" states where road salt is used. Severe subframe rust can compromise steering and suspension components, leading to dangerous failures. This issue was subject to NHTSA Recall 13V114000.
Another common complaint involves the power sliding doors. Owners frequently report failures with the door motors, cables, or sensors, leading to doors that won't open, close, or latch properly. This can be an expensive repair.
Transmission problems are also cited, with symptoms ranging from harsh shifts, shuddering, or hesitation, to complete transmission failure in some cases. Regular fluid changes are crucial but don't always prevent these issues.
Electrical system glitches are not uncommon, manifesting as problems with various sensors, dashboard warning lights, power windows, or even the air conditioning system. A/C compressor failures or refrigerant leaks are also reported.
Regarding recalls, the 2009 Sedona has been involved in several important campaigns:
Long-term, owners may find the Sedona requires more attention to rust prevention, particularly on the undercarriage. While the engine itself is generally robust, the associated components and electronics can sometimes lead to unexpected repair bills, impacting its overall long-term ownership cost and perceived reliability compared to some more established rivals.
Another common complaint involves the power sliding doors. Owners frequently report failures with the door motors, cables, or sensors, leading to doors that won't open, close, or latch properly. This can be an expensive repair.
Transmission problems are also cited, with symptoms ranging from harsh shifts, shuddering, or hesitation, to complete transmission failure in some cases. Regular fluid changes are crucial but don't always prevent these issues.
Electrical system glitches are not uncommon, manifesting as problems with various sensors, dashboard warning lights, power windows, or even the air conditioning system. A/C compressor failures or refrigerant leaks are also reported.
Regarding recalls, the 2009 Sedona has been involved in several important campaigns:
- NHTSA Recall 09V135000: Concerned the clock spring contact assembly within the steering column, which could lead to loss of airbag deployment capability.
- NHTSA Recall 09V359000 and 15V874000: Both addressed issues with the stop lamp switch, which could prevent the brake lights from illuminating, interfere with the shift interlock, or disable cruise control.
- NHTSA Recall 13V114000: As mentioned, this recall specifically targeted subframe corrosion in vehicles registered in certain states, addressing a critical safety concern.
Long-term, owners may find the Sedona requires more attention to rust prevention, particularly on the undercarriage. While the engine itself is generally robust, the associated components and electronics can sometimes lead to unexpected repair bills, impacting its overall long-term ownership cost and perceived reliability compared to some more established rivals.
How long will the 2009 KIA Sedona last?
With diligent maintenance and care, a 2009 KIA Sedona can realistically achieve an average mileage of 150,000 to 200,000 miles, providing 10 to 15 years of service. Its 3.8L V6 engine is generally considered durable if oil changes are regular and timely. However, long-term durability is often hampered by specific weaknesses that emerge over time. The most critical long-term concern remains subframe rust, which can become severe enough to compromise safety and structural integrity. Beyond rust, owners frequently encounter issues with the power sliding doors, which tend to fail after years of use. Transmission longevity can be hit-or-miss, with some units developing problems around the 100,000-mile mark. Electrical gremlins and A/C system failures also become more common as the vehicle ages, leading to increasing repair costs and potentially impacting the vehicle's overall reliability perception in its later years. Proper rust prevention and proactive maintenance on common failure points are key to extending its service life.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2009 KIA Sedona, for its model year, offered a respectable suite of built-in tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features, focusing more on utility and fundamental security rather than cutting-edge innovations.
Built-in Tech and Entertainment:
Standard on the LX trim was an AM/FM/CD audio system with an auxiliary input jack, allowing for basic media connectivity. The EX trim upgraded this to a six-CD changer and added steering wheel-mounted audio controls for convenience. Both trims featured air conditioning, with the EX offering a more sophisticated three-zone automatic climate control system. Optional features available, particularly on the EX, included a power driver's seat, power-adjustable pedals, and a sought-after rear-seat DVD entertainment system, making long trips more enjoyable for passengers. Power sliding doors were standard on the EX, a significant convenience feature for families.
Driver-Assistance and Safety Features:
Kia equipped the 2009 Sedona with essential driver-assistance and safety technologies. Standard across all trims were Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Traction Control, which collectively helped maintain vehicle stability and control in challenging driving conditions. In terms of passive safety, the Sedona featured a comprehensive airbag system: dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags designed to protect occupants in various collision scenarios.
Crash-Test Ratings:
The 2009 Sedona performed commendably in independent crash tests.
These strong crash test ratings underscore the Sedona's commitment to occupant safety, providing peace of mind for families. However, it lacked advanced driver-assistance systems common in newer vehicles, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control.
Built-in Tech and Entertainment:
Standard on the LX trim was an AM/FM/CD audio system with an auxiliary input jack, allowing for basic media connectivity. The EX trim upgraded this to a six-CD changer and added steering wheel-mounted audio controls for convenience. Both trims featured air conditioning, with the EX offering a more sophisticated three-zone automatic climate control system. Optional features available, particularly on the EX, included a power driver's seat, power-adjustable pedals, and a sought-after rear-seat DVD entertainment system, making long trips more enjoyable for passengers. Power sliding doors were standard on the EX, a significant convenience feature for families.
Driver-Assistance and Safety Features:
Kia equipped the 2009 Sedona with essential driver-assistance and safety technologies. Standard across all trims were Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Traction Control, which collectively helped maintain vehicle stability and control in challenging driving conditions. In terms of passive safety, the Sedona featured a comprehensive airbag system: dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags designed to protect occupants in various collision scenarios.
Crash-Test Ratings:
The 2009 Sedona performed commendably in independent crash tests.
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration):
- Frontal Crash (Driver): 5 Stars
- Frontal Crash (Passenger): 5 Stars
- Side Crash (Front Seat): 5 Stars
- Side Crash (Rear Seat): 5 Stars
- Rollover Resistance: 4 Stars
- IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety):
- Moderate Overlap Front: Good (highest rating)
- Side Impact (with standard side airbags): Acceptable
- Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraints: Good
These strong crash test ratings underscore the Sedona's commitment to occupant safety, providing peace of mind for families. However, it lacked advanced driver-assistance systems common in newer vehicles, such as blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2009 KIA Sedona Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2009 KIA Sedona offered exceptional value, with the base LX trim typically starting around $21,000-$22,000, and the more equipped EX trim ranging from $24,000 to $27,000, depending on options. As a used vehicle today, prices for a 2009 Sedona vary widely, generally falling within the $3,000 to $8,000 range. Exceptionally well-maintained, low-mileage examples might command slightly higher prices, while those with significant issues or high mileage will be at the lower end.
Minivans, in general, experience significant depreciation, and the Kia Sedona was no exception, often depreciating faster than its Japanese competitors like the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna. Factors heavily affecting its current used market value include overall mechanical condition, mileage, evidence of regular maintenance, and critically, the presence or absence of subframe rust. Fully functional power sliding doors and a working A/C system are also important for maintaining value. Geographical location plays a role, with vehicles from "salt belt" regions often valued lower due to potential rust concerns.
Minivans, in general, experience significant depreciation, and the Kia Sedona was no exception, often depreciating faster than its Japanese competitors like the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna. Factors heavily affecting its current used market value include overall mechanical condition, mileage, evidence of regular maintenance, and critically, the presence or absence of subframe rust. Fully functional power sliding doors and a working A/C system are also important for maintaining value. Geographical location plays a role, with vehicles from "salt belt" regions often valued lower due to potential rust concerns.
2009 KIA Sedona Cost of Ownership
Long-term ownership of a 2009 KIA Sedona presents a mixed bag in terms of costs. Insurance rates are typically quite reasonable, reflecting its status as a family minivan rather than a high-performance vehicle. Fuel costs are average for its class, with its 16 city/23 highway MPG not being exceptionally efficient but on par for a V6 minivan of that era. Routine maintenance like oil changes, tires, and brakes is generally affordable. However, repair costs can escalate significantly due to its known weaknesses. Issues such as subframe corrosion, power sliding door malfunctions, A/C system failures, and potential transmission problems can lead to substantial repair bills. Therefore, while the initial purchase price is economical, the 2009 Sedona can become quite costly to own long-term, particularly as it ages and these common problems manifest, often offsetting its initial affordability.
2009 KIA Sedona Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
21.1 gallons
City Mileage
16 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
23 miles/gallon
2009 KIA Sedona Safety Rating
NHTSA
2009 KIA Sedona Recalls & Defects
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower ARM
Recall date
2013-11-05
Recall no.
13v550000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
KIA Motors Corporation (Kia) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2012 KIA Sedona Vehicles Manufactured From June 15, 2005, Through August 14, 2012 Originally Sold IN, or Currently Registered IN Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Jersey, Ohio, Rhode Island, West Virginia or THE District OF Columbia. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Front Lower Control Arms MAY Break DUE TO Corrosion Resulting From Prolonged Exposure TO Salty Environments.
Consequence
A Broken Control ARM CAN Result IN THE Loss OF Control OF THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
KIA Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Inspect THE Degree OF Corrosion OF THE Front Lower Control Arms, and Will Either Rustproof or Replace Them, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON December 20, 2013. Owners MAY Contact KIA AT 1-800-333-4542. Kia's Recall Number IS Sc100.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
Recall date
2013-04-01
Recall no.
13v114000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
KIA Motors Corporation (Kia) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007-2010 Rondo, Model Year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, Model Year 2010-2011 Soul, Model Year 2008-2011 Optima, Model Year 2010 Forte, Model Year 2007-2009 Amanti, and Model Year 2009 Borrego Vehicles. Originally, IN April 2013, KIA Recalled 623,658 Model Year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, Model Year 2007-2011 Sorento, Model Year 2007 Sedona, Model Year 2010-2011 Soul, and Model Year 2011 Optima Vehicles. IN September 2013, KIA Informed THE Agency That IT WAS Adding AN Additional 356,719 Vehicles TO This Campaign. THE Total Number OF Vehicles Being Recalled IS NOW 980,377. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Stop Lamp Switch MAY Malfunction. A Malfunctioning Stop Lamp Switch MAY Cause THE Brake Lights TO NOT Illuminate When THE Brake Pedal IS Depressed or MAY Cause AN Inability TO Deactivate THE Cruise Control BY Depressing THE Brake Pedal. Additionally, A Malfunctioning Stop Lamp Switch MAY Also Result IN Intermittent Operation OF THE Push-button Start Feature, Affect THE Operation OF THE Brake-transmission Shift Interlock Feature Preventing THE Shifter From Being Moved OUT OF THE Park Position and Cause THE Electronic Stability Control (Esc) Malfunction Light TO Illuminate.
Consequence
Failure TO Illuminate THE Stop Lamps During Braking or Inability TO Disengage THE Cruise Control Could Increase THE Risk OF A Crash. Additionally, When THE Ignition IS IN THE 'on' Position, THE Transmission Shifter MAY BE Able TO BE Moved OUT OF Park Without First Applying THE Brake. This MAY Lead TO Unintentional Movement OF THE Car Which MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
KIA Will Send AN Interim Notification TO Owners IN MAY 2013. When Parts ARE Available, Owners Will Receive A Second Notification and Dealers Will Replace THE Stop Lamp Switch, Free OF Charge. Owners MAY Contact KIA AT 1-800-333-4542. Kia's Recall Campaign Number IS Sc098.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Latches/Locks/Linkages:hood:latch
Recall date
2016-06-01
Recall no.
16v389000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
KIA Motors Corporation (Kia) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2014 KIA Sedona Vehicles Manufactured From June 15, 2005, Through April 04, 2014. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Secondary Hood Latch MAY Bind and Remain IN THE Unlatched Position When THE Hood IS Closed.
Consequence
IF THE Primary Latch IS Inadvertently Released and THE Secondary Latch IS NOT Engaged, THE Hood Could Unexpectedly Open While Driving, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
KIA Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Replace THE Secondary Hood Latch or Clean and Lubricate THE Latch, Depending ON THE Vehicle's Location and THE Condition OF THE Latch. These Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 27, 2016. Owners MAY Contact KIA AT 1-800-333-4542. Kia's Recall Number IS Sc134.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower ARM
Recall date
2016-06-01
Recall no.
16v387000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
KIA Motors Corporation (Kia) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2012 KIA Sedona Vehicles Manufactured From June 15, 2005, Through August 14, 2012 and Originally Sold IN, or Currently Registered IN Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and THE District OF Columbia. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Front Lower Control Arms MAY Break DUE TO Corrosion From Salt Water Exposure Such AS From Road Salt Use.
Consequence
A Broken Control ARM CAN Result IN THE Loss OF Control OF THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
KIA Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Lower Control Arms ON 2006-2007 Models. 2008-2012 Models Will Either Have Their Front Lower Control Arms Replaced or Additional Anti-corrosion Coating Will BE Applied. These Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 27, 2016. Owners MAY Contact KIA AT 1-800-333-4542. Kia's Number FOR This Recall IS Sc133.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Recall date
2020-02-14
Recall no.
20v088000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
KIA Motors America (Kia) IS Recalling Certain 2006-2010 Sedona and 2007-2009 Sorento Vehicles. Moisture MAY Enter THE Anti-lock Brake (Abs) Module and Result IN AN Electrical Short.
Consequence
AN Electrical Short Within THE ABS Module MAY Cause AN Engine Compartment Fire, Even When THE Vehicle IS Turned Off, Increasing THE Risk OF AN Injury.
Remedy
KIA Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Relay IN THE Main Junction BOX TO Prevent Power From Being Directed TO THE Hecu When THE Vehicle's Ignition Switch IS Turned Off, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 5, 2020. Owners MAY Contact KIA Customer Service AT 1-800-333-4542. Kia's Number FOR This Recall IS Sc186.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System
Recall date
2020-02-14
Recall no.
20v088000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
KIA Motors America (Kia) IS Recalling Certain 2006-2010 Sedona and 2007-2009 Sorento Vehicles. Moisture MAY Enter THE Anti-lock Brake (Abs) Module and Result IN AN Electrical Short.
Consequence
AN Electrical Short Within THE ABS Module MAY Cause AN Engine Compartment Fire, Even When THE Vehicle IS Turned Off, Increasing THE Risk OF AN Injury.
Remedy
KIA Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Relay IN THE Main Junction BOX TO Prevent Power From Being Directed TO THE Hecu When THE Vehicle's Ignition Switch IS Turned Off, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 5, 2020. Owners MAY Contact KIA Customer Service AT 1-800-333-4542. Kia's Number FOR This Recall IS Sc186.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2009 KIA Sedona Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Corrosion
Original warranty
60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Drivetrain
Original warranty
120 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Roadside Assistance
Original warranty
60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2009 KIA Sedona Insurance
Insurance for a 2009 KIA Sedona is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 KIA Sedona Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2009 KIA Sedona operates in a highly competitive minivan segment, often stacked against established giants like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and domestic contenders such as the Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan.
Performance: The Sedona's 3.8L V6 with 250 horsepower provides adequate, if not exhilarating, performance. It's sufficient for daily driving and highway merging. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna often boast slightly more refined powertrains, smoother transmissions, and a generally more engaging driving experience. Chrysler's minivans offer comparable power, but the overall driving dynamics might feel less polished than the Japanese rivals.
Features: For its price point, the Sedona came well-equipped, especially the EX trim with standard power sliding doors and available rear-seat DVD entertainment. However, the Odyssey and Sienna often offered more innovative seating solutions (like the Odyssey's multi-configurable second row) and perceived higher quality interior materials. Chrysler/Dodge minivans were often feature-packed, pioneering innovations like "Stow 'n Go" seating, which was a significant convenience differentiator.
Reliability: This is where the Sedona faces its toughest challenge. While its engine can be robust, the numerous reported issues with power sliding doors, subframe rust, electrical gremlins, and potential transmission problems detract from its long-term reliability. The Toyota Sienna is widely considered the benchmark for minivan reliability, followed closely by the Honda Odyssey (though some Odyssey model years had transmission issues). Chrysler/Dodge minivans historically had a reputation for frequent repairs, but in some areas, they might avoid the severe rust issues seen on the Sedona.
Price: The Sedona's primary advantage was always its aggressive pricing, making it a strong value proposition both new and on the used market. It was significantly cheaper than a comparable Odyssey or Sienna. Chrysler/Dodge minivans often offered competitive pricing, sometimes similar to the Sedona, but generally higher than the Kia when new.
Recommendations:
For those prioritizing absolute reliability and higher resale value, the Honda Odyssey (model years known for transmission stability) or Toyota Sienna remain superior alternatives, albeit at a higher purchase price, especially used. If the budget is extremely tight and the specific known issues of the Sedona are thoroughly inspected and addressed (or absent), it can be a capable hauler. Similar, more affordable alternatives might include the Dodge Grand Caravan, which offers excellent seating versatility with Stow 'n Go, but also has its own set of reliability concerns, particularly with transmissions and power accessories. The Nissan Quest is another alternative, offering a unique styling but also often having continuously variable transmission (CVT) concerns in these model years.
Performance: The Sedona's 3.8L V6 with 250 horsepower provides adequate, if not exhilarating, performance. It's sufficient for daily driving and highway merging. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna often boast slightly more refined powertrains, smoother transmissions, and a generally more engaging driving experience. Chrysler's minivans offer comparable power, but the overall driving dynamics might feel less polished than the Japanese rivals.
Features: For its price point, the Sedona came well-equipped, especially the EX trim with standard power sliding doors and available rear-seat DVD entertainment. However, the Odyssey and Sienna often offered more innovative seating solutions (like the Odyssey's multi-configurable second row) and perceived higher quality interior materials. Chrysler/Dodge minivans were often feature-packed, pioneering innovations like "Stow 'n Go" seating, which was a significant convenience differentiator.
Reliability: This is where the Sedona faces its toughest challenge. While its engine can be robust, the numerous reported issues with power sliding doors, subframe rust, electrical gremlins, and potential transmission problems detract from its long-term reliability. The Toyota Sienna is widely considered the benchmark for minivan reliability, followed closely by the Honda Odyssey (though some Odyssey model years had transmission issues). Chrysler/Dodge minivans historically had a reputation for frequent repairs, but in some areas, they might avoid the severe rust issues seen on the Sedona.
Price: The Sedona's primary advantage was always its aggressive pricing, making it a strong value proposition both new and on the used market. It was significantly cheaper than a comparable Odyssey or Sienna. Chrysler/Dodge minivans often offered competitive pricing, sometimes similar to the Sedona, but generally higher than the Kia when new.
Recommendations:
For those prioritizing absolute reliability and higher resale value, the Honda Odyssey (model years known for transmission stability) or Toyota Sienna remain superior alternatives, albeit at a higher purchase price, especially used. If the budget is extremely tight and the specific known issues of the Sedona are thoroughly inspected and addressed (or absent), it can be a capable hauler. Similar, more affordable alternatives might include the Dodge Grand Caravan, which offers excellent seating versatility with Stow 'n Go, but also has its own set of reliability concerns, particularly with transmissions and power accessories. The Nissan Quest is another alternative, offering a unique styling but also often having continuously variable transmission (CVT) concerns in these model years.
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 KIA Sedona a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2009 KIA Sedona is an ideal vehicle for budget-conscious families who need a spacious, functional minivan but cannot afford the premium prices of its Japanese rivals. It excels as a "bang for your buck" option, offering ample passenger and cargo room with decent features.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but with significant caveats and under specific conditions. It is definitively a used-car purchase; buying one new in 2009 offered a great warranty, which is now long expired. If you are considering a used 2009 Sedona, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is absolutely non-negotiable. Critical areas to inspect include the subframe for rust, the functionality of both power sliding doors, the transmission's shifting behavior, and the A/C system. The EX trim is generally recommended for its added convenience features.
This minivan is not for buyers seeking top-tier reliability and minimal maintenance. It's best suited for someone who is prepared for potential repair costs associated with its known issues or is handy enough to tackle some common problems themselves. If found in excellent condition and at a low price, the 2009 Sedona can still provide reliable family transportation for several years, but it requires a careful purchase decision and ongoing vigilance.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but with significant caveats and under specific conditions. It is definitively a used-car purchase; buying one new in 2009 offered a great warranty, which is now long expired. If you are considering a used 2009 Sedona, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is absolutely non-negotiable. Critical areas to inspect include the subframe for rust, the functionality of both power sliding doors, the transmission's shifting behavior, and the A/C system. The EX trim is generally recommended for its added convenience features.
This minivan is not for buyers seeking top-tier reliability and minimal maintenance. It's best suited for someone who is prepared for potential repair costs associated with its known issues or is handy enough to tackle some common problems themselves. If found in excellent condition and at a low price, the 2009 Sedona can still provide reliable family transportation for several years, but it requires a careful purchase decision and ongoing vigilance.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma