2015 Kia Sedona Recalls, Issues & Maintenance

The 2015 Kia Sedona carries 3 open NHTSA recalls — most recently covering door and turn signal. Owners report 7 recurring issue clusters, led by “Power sliding door failure to latch or close.” Kia uses Hyundai Motor Group's powertrains, so service intervals mirror Hyundai's. Kia Promise covers the first 3 years / 36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance. Kia owners with the Theta II 2.0L/2.4L (Optima, Sorento, Sportage 2011-2019) should adhere strictly to oil intervals due to known oil-consumption issues in Kia TSBs.

3 Open Recalls

Source: NHTSA

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

Campaign #18V338000 · May 23, 2018

Issue: 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.

Risk: If the door closes on an occupant, there is an increased risk of an injury.

Fix: 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.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL

Campaign #21V725000 · Sep 17, 2021

Issue: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Sedona vehicles. The Smart Junction Box (SJB) software logic may not properly interpret the signals received from the multifunction switch, which could cause the turn signal to activate in the opposite direction of what the driver intended.

Risk: A turn signal activating in the opposite direction of what was intended by the driver increases the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will update the SJB software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 12, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC217.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

Campaign #19V109000 · Feb 19, 2019

Issue: 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.

Risk: 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.

Fix: 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.

Recall data refreshed Sep 13, 2026.

Known issues for this vehicle

What drivers and federal regulators have officially reported about the 2015 Kia Sedona.

Reported to NHTSA

Power sliding door failure to latch or close

STRUCTURE

22 NHTSA complaints · 2015-04 → 2026-06

Right side sliding became stuck in closed position. Door was not openable by inside nor outside door handles. Not openable by automatic means such as push button. This situation slowed egress and could be a safety issue during emergency evacuation
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11743899
PASSENGER SIDE SLIDING DOOR GRINDS WHEN ATTEMPTING ELECTRONIC CLOSURE. SOMETIMES IT DOESNT CLOSE COMPLETELY. ON THIS OCCASION, DOOR WAS COMPLETELY CLOSED, NO DOOR LIGHT ON, AND WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY THE DOOR ELECTRONICALLY OPENED WHILE AT SPEED
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11113000
TAKATA RECALL SLIDING DOORS DO NOT PROPERLY CLOSE ALL THE TIME AND CAN POP OPEN WHILE DRIVING. SO I HAVE TO GET OUT AND CLOSE THE DOOR BY HAND. THIS HAS HAPPEND ON DIFFERENT OCCASIONS SINCE NOVEMBER OF 2016
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11162118

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Headlight flicker or shutoff while driving

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

11 NHTSA complaints · 2018-12 → 2025-01

While traveling home with five others after dark the headlights just went out on a very dark highway. Before we could safely pull over they came back on
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11530922
There have been several times recently when both of the headlights flicker on and off while driving or while parked over the past 2 weeks. Most of the time it seems to happen when using the turn signal, but not always
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11446764
FOR ABOUT 6 WKS NOW WHILE DRIVING SPECIALLY AT NIGHT MY HEADLIGHTS WILL RANDOMLY FLICKER OFF AND ON, AND THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL TIMES WHERE THE AUTOMATIC HEADLIGHTS JUST TURN OFF AND STAY OFF. IT HAS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING AND WHILE PARKED
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11161882

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Turn signal indicating wrong direction

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

9 NHTSA complaints · 2019-06 → 2021-07

When pushing the turn signal down while the vehicle is in motion to go left, it either doesn’t blink or switches to the right blinker. This nearly caused an accident the other day when a car nearly hit the back of my van with my 6 kids in it
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11418929
TAKATA RECALL: OUR 2015 KIA SEDONA'S WHEN IN MOTION OR STATIONARY, THE TURN SIGNAL COMPONENT DOES NOT SIGNAL THE DIRECTION WE HAVE SELECTED. WHEN I CHOOSE LEFT TURN IT SIGNALS RIGHT TURN
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11221961
MY 2015 KIA SEDONA SX-L HAS DEVELOPED A RANDOM ISSUE WHEN THE LEFT TURN SIGNAL FUNCTION IS ACTUATED (AND NOT THE RIGHT). SYMPTOMS INCLUDE THE LEFT SIGNAL NOT OPERATING AT ALL, OR WHEN THE LEFT SIGNAL IS DEPRESSED BUT THE RIGHT SIGNAL BLINKS RAPIDLY THREE TIMES INSTEAD
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11327630

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Second and third row seat track latch failure

SEATS

4 NHTSA complaints · 2017-07 → 2024-03

The passenger side second row outside seat is not latching into place appropriately and thus slides forward and back in the track upon breaking or accelerating. We did not know it became faulty until my 5 year old was seated while driving
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11462919
I have already submitted a claim regarding my passenger side middle seat not locking into the track and having a significant safety concern. On July 1st my sister in law was sitting in the back (middle drivers side captains chair this time) while driving
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11473083
We have had multiple seat latches fail on our vehicle. We have attempted to WD40 the mechanism and have ensured there is nothing in the tract but the second row passenger seat as well as the larger drivers side third row seat are not latching onto the tract
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11575069

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Engine stall or failure requiring replacement

ENGINE

47 NHTSA complaints · 2016-01 → 2026-08

Engine blew a rod without warning or service light indication. The vehicle is available for inspection. My two children and I were put at risk due to the nature of the engine failure and being able to safely navigate the vehicle off of the highway
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11661763
Engine popped started to shake would not go over 2000 rpm. Pulled over and had car towed home
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11605319
The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sedona. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated. No warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the thermostat gauge indicated that the engine was overheating
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11685132

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Vehicle fire originating in engine compartment

ENGINE

9 NHTSA complaints · 2015-06 → 2026-07

Was driving down the road with zero issues known, no check engine light, and only 114K miles. There was a sudden noise that was quiet so I turned down the radio, and then within 2 seconds or so a loud bang occurred, followed by a lot of smoke
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11749889
We were driving and pulled over to a grocery store and noticed that the dash lights were going crazy and then the cabin started to fill with a little smoke and then the car shut off. The doors would not open and the car had no power at all. We were finally to get us and our kids
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11463442
Vehicle was parked in garage and caught on fire. Garage, vehicle, and all contents were a complete loss. Total loss of garage and property excluding the vehicle is around $75,000
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11556038

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Airbag warning light illuminated

AIR BAGS

11 NHTSA complaints · 2017-07 → 2024-07

I was driving at approximately 20-25 mph when both side curtain airbags deployed. There was no collision or sudden stops. There were no warning lights or symptoms before or after the incident. My battery had been replaced at a local shop 4-5 hours prior to the incident
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11603531
AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON AND WONT GO OFF. IT USED TO COME ON OCCASIONALLY BUT IT JUST STARTED TO BE ON CONSTANTLY RECENTLY. ALSO THE PASSENGER AIR BAG IS STUCK ON. ITS SUPPOSED TO LIGHT UP OFF WHEN NO ONE IS SEATED
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11020003
THE AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON AND STAYS ON. IT USE TO ONLY COME ON EVERY ONCE AND A WHILE BUT NOW STAYS ON ALL THE TIME. ALSO THE PASSENGER AIR BAG INDICATOR LIGHT IS NOT WORKING CORRECTLY. THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT LIGHT FLASHES WHEN THERE IS NO ONE IN THE SEAT
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11165151

Read all complaints on NHTSA →

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI). Complaint data refreshed Sep 13, 2026. Investigation data refreshed Sep 13, 2026.

We display NHTSA's record with attribution; we don't editorialize on what these complaints mean for any specific vehicle.

Essential maintenance

Critical for safety and preventing major damage

Engine Oil & Filter

Every 3,750 mi

Severe service: every 3,750 miles. Normal: 7,500 miles. Theta II 2.0L/2.4L on Optima, Sorento, Sportage (2011-2019): full synthetic only, never extend.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$120–$160

Shop

~$85–$115

DIY

~$25–$55

Full synthetic costs more than conventional. 5-quart 0W-20 + filter is the typical bill.

Tire Rotation

Every 7,500 mi

Rotate tires every 7,500 miles. Telluride and Sorento AWD owners benefit from rotation every 5,000 miles to prevent uneven wear.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$85

Shop

~$60

DIY

Free

Often free at the shop where you bought the tires — worth asking before paying.

Brake Inspection

Every 7,500 mi

Inspect brake pads and rotors every 7,500 miles. Forte and Soul front pads typically last 40,000-55,000 miles.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$85

Shop

~$60

DIY

Free

Most shops do this free as a courtesy with any service. Don't pay separately if you can avoid it.

Brake Fluid

Every 30,000 mi

Replace DOT 3 brake fluid every 30,000 miles or 24 months. Required for ABS and ESC pump longevity.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$180–$200

Shop

~$125–$140

DIY

~$10–$25

DOT 3 or 4 — match the cap. Vacuum bleeders make this a one-person DIY.

Important maintenance

Keeps your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently

Engine Air Filter

Every 30,000 mi

Replace engine air filter every 30,000 miles. Severe or dusty conditions: 15,000 miles.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$60–$95

Shop

~$45–$70

DIY

~$15–$40

5-minute job on most cars; the airbox lid usually has clips, no tools needed.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Every 30,000 mi

Severe service: every 30,000 miles. Normal: 60,000 miles. Use Kia SP-IV — same as Hyundai.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$330–$500

Shop

~$235–$355

DIY

~$60–$180

Some sealed transmissions have no dipstick — fill is precise and best left to a shop. Many drivers can still DIY drain-and-fill.

Spark Plugs

Every 105,000 mi

Iridium-tipped plugs rated 105,000 miles on most Kia engines. 1.6T (Forte GT, Soul Turbo): 60,000 miles. 3.5L Lambda II V6 (Telluride, Sorento): 105,000 miles.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$285–$390

Shop

~$200–$275

DIY

~$25–$100

Iridium plugs cost more but last 100k+ miles. V6/V8 access varies wildly — some are tough.

Long-Life Coolant

Every 30,000 mi

Kia Long-Life Coolant (pink, same as Hyundai): first change at 60,000 miles, then every 30,000. Do not mix with green or orange coolant.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$285–$330

Shop

~$200–$235

DIY

~$25–$60

Use the manufacturer-specified coolant — wrong color/chemistry can damage the cooling system.

Transfer Case / Rear Diff (AWD)

Every 60,000 mi

Sportage AWD, Sorento AWD, Telluride AWD: replace transfer case fluid and rear diff fluid every 60,000 miles.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$105–$140

Shop

~$75–$100

DIY

~$15–$40

AWD/4WD vehicles only. Easy drain-and-fill on most platforms.

Recommended maintenance

Extends the life of your vehicle and improves comfort

Cabin Air Filter

Every 15,000 mi

Replace cabin air filter every 15,000 miles. Located behind the glove box on Optima, Forte, and Sportage; behind the dashboard panel on Telluride.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$60–$95

Shop

~$45–$70

DIY

~$15–$40

Usually behind the glovebox. Shops charge labor for a 10-minute job — easy DIY win.

Fatal crash history & reported problems

Occupant deaths in fatal crashes (FARS)

13 crashes 2010–2024

FARS counts every occupant death in a fatal crash, whatever the cause — it does not mean the vehicle was at fault or defective. Counts are not adjusted for how many of each vehicle are on the road. How to read this number

Owner-reported problem signals

Separate from the federal fatality data above: complaints owners filed with NHTSA about this year and model. These are reports of problems, unverified, and are counted here only as signals.

2

complaints mentioning a crash

9

complaints mentioning a fire

Reviewed known issues for this vehicle·Open recalls for this vehicle

Typical U.S. ranges. Actual quotes vary by shop, parts choice, and vehicle condition.

How we estimate: Dealer = OEM parts × 1.4 + labor × $165/hr. Shop = parts + labor × $115/hr. DIY = parts only.

This maintenance schedule for the 2015 Kia Sedona reflects Kia's published service intervals and the Service Reminder system. Your actual service needs may vary based on driving conditions, climate, and vehicle usage. Always consult your owner's manual for model-specific recommendations.