2017 Kia Sedona Safety Report
2017 Kia Sedona: Excellent Crash Safety, but Plagued by Frequent Engine Failures and Multiple Recalls
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Kia Sedona
Reliability Score
The 2017 Kia Sedona receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2017 Kia Sedona
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Kia Sedona:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Seizure/Failure Numerous reports of sudden engine knocking, complete engine seizure, and loss of motive power, often without prior warning lights, attributed to issues like rod bearings, low compression, or metal shavings. |
High | Common | 60000-186000 miles |
| Excessive Oil Consumption Owners report needing to add oil frequently, sometimes weekly, indicating the engine burns oil at an abnormal rate. |
Medium | Common | unknown miles |
| Air Bag Control Unit (Acu) Malfunction Recall issued for ACU cover contacting a memory chip, potentially preventing air bag deployment in a crash. Also, individual complaints of air bag warning light illumination. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
| Power Sliding Door (Psd) Auto-Reverse Failure Recall issued because the power sliding door may not auto-reverse when obstructed, increasing injury risk. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
| Turn Signal Malfunction Recall for Smart Junction Box software logic misinterpreting multifunction switch signals, causing turn signals to activate in the opposite direction. |
Medium | Occasional | all miles |
| Occupant Detection System (Ods) Wiring Harness Damage Recall for ODS wiring harness under the front passenger seat breaking, potentially preventing the front passenger air bag from deploying as intended for child seats. |
High | Occasional | all miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Kia Sedona:
The most significant issue, with 42 complaints, involving engine knocking, seizure, excessive oil consumption, and complete failure, often leading to costly replacements.
14 complaints categorized as 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' often include general vehicle issues or problems not fitting specific categories, some of which may relate to underlying engine or electrical issues.
9 complaints, including issues with seats breaking easily, doors not locking, and paint damage/flaking on the rear trunk door.
7 complaints, primarily related to the air bag warning light illuminating, consistent with the ACU recall.
7 complaints, including issues like window fluid leaking, power steering leaking (though often related to other systems), and general electrical malfunctions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Kia Sedona
Is the 2017 Kia Sedona safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Kia Sedona received excellent crash test ratings, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating. However, it has a concerning number of engine-related complaints (42 out of 124 total complaints) and four safety recalls, which indicate potential reliability and safety issues beyond crash performance.
What are common problems with the 2017 Kia Sedona?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Kia Sedona are related to the engine, including sudden engine failure, knocking noises, and excessive oil consumption, accounting for 42 complaints. Other common problems include issues with the structure (e.g., seats, doors), air bag system malfunctions, and various electrical system complaints.
Has the 2017 Kia Sedona had any recalls?
Yes, the 2017 Kia Sedona has had four safety recalls. These include recalls for the Air Bag Control Unit (ACU), exterior lighting (turn signals), Occupant Detection System (ODS) wiring harness, and the power sliding door's auto-reverse function.
What is the reliability of the 2017 Kia Sedona?
While its crash test performance is strong, the reliability of the 2017 Kia Sedona is significantly impacted by the high volume of engine failure complaints. With 42 engine complaints out of 124 total, and reports of engine seizure at relatively low mileages, long-term reliability appears to be a major concern.
Are there fire risks with the 2017 Kia Sedona?
NHTSA data shows 2 reported fires for the 2017 Kia Sedona, one of which was explicitly linked to an engine issue where white smoke and flames were observed. This indicates a potential fire risk, particularly associated with the engine problems.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the prevalent and severe engine issues reported for the 2017 Kia Sedona; a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially of the engine, is highly recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Kia Sedona
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Kia Sedona. The data includes 124 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 11 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Kia Sedona an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.