Fuel System complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | Share of year's complaints | Typical mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2 | 10% | — |
| 2019 | 3 | 8% | 39,000 miles |
| 2018 | 2 | 4% | — |
| 2017 | 3 | 2% | 57,000 miles |
| 2016 | 10 | 3% | 26,000 miles |
| 2015 | 3 | 2% | — |
| 2014 | 1 | 3% | 71,000 miles |
| 2012 | 11 | 10% | 72,000 miles |
| 2011 | 13 | 20% | 122,000 miles |
| 2010 | 3 | 9% | 113,000 miles |
| 2009 | 1 | 2% | 95,000 miles |
| 2008 | 7 | 4% | 34,000 miles |
| 2007 | 5 | 3% | 119,000 miles |
| 2006 | 11 | 3% | 35,000 miles |
| 2005 | 6 | 3% | 63,000 miles |
| 2004 | 6 | 3% | 60,000 miles |
| 2003 | 9 | 5% | 40,000 miles |
| 2002 | 12 | 5% | 81,000 miles |
Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank, hybrid and EV propulsion).
Mileage when the problem started
What owners report
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sedona. The contact stated that the heat and A/C control knobs had melted twice, and the contact had purchased and personally replaced the entire control panel. Additionally, the contact stated that there was an abnormal strong fuel odor coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the low-pressure fuel pump and fuel injectors were replaced on separate occasions. However, the failure recurred while leaving the dealer. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was determined that the high-pressure fuel pump needed to be replaced; however, after the repair, the vehicle started making abnormal sounds. Additionally, the contact stated that the abnormally strong fuel odor had worsened. …
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sedona. The contact stated while driving, he became aware of a strong and unpleasant fuel odor that made him and his granddaughter sick. The contact stated that the check engine warning light flashed on and off several times. The vehicle was taken on several occasions to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with a fuel leak and several parts related to the fuel leak failure were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated the failure had been for a year and the dealer had not been able to repair the vehicle properly. The vehicle was also inspected by an independent mechanic who confirmed the failure and stated that the exhaust was very hot which could cause a fire. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The vehicle was no longer under warranty. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure; however, no assistance was provided. …
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sedona. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the vehicle began to drive rough. There was white smoke coming from the exhaust and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local service center to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that cylinder #5 had failed. The vehicle was later taken to the local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the fuel injector was faulty and had caused the Oxygen sensor to fail. The fuel injector, fuel rail, Oxygen sensor, and gasket were replaced, and the vehicle was fixed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The VIN was not available. The failure mileage was 57,000.
Driving and van started decelerating while still pressing gas. Got off road. Turned off van. Smelled something burning. Called tow truck. Tried to re-start and won't turn over. Mechanic said the fuel rails too low code and cylinder misfire. Engine is now damaged due hydraulic lock. Kia recalled 2011-2012 vans for defective fuel rail and possible fire. Will not assist as we are 2nd owners and don't fall under warranty. It def could have caught on fire based on what I researched. Please advise.
While driving car gas tank blew a hole and started on fire. Car then lost power while on fire while I was in traffic, luckily I was able to cut into a parking lot and people that were in traffic with me call 911. Fire department confirmed there was a hole in gas tank which sits right underneath driver side. Fire was only contained to where the gas tank and lines are. I have pictures.
Car has a strong gas smell coming from front area through vents, when opened hood strong gas is smelled. Car is now stalling when starting. Afraid that car will burst into flames and explode. I have read that there was a recall due to cracked fuel rail but my 2016 does not fall within the model years. This is ridiculous that it's the exact same thing happening to my 2016 sedona. The smell of gas is excessive and I had to take all of my kids out of the car and now do not trust to drive it. My car was completely fine and how can something randomly crack and cause this. No light or warning indicates this issue.
There is a strong gasoline smell inside and outside of the vehicle. This is a fire risk and breathing hazard. I took the vehicle to a mechanic to be diagnosed/repaired on 10/13/2022. The mechanic confirmed there was a leak and stated that he had never seen a leak in this area of the vehicle before. He stated based on where it was that he believes it is a manufacturer defect. The fuel line was replaced at the cost of $699.16. However, the gasoline smell inside and outside of the vehicle remains. I contacted Kia Customer Service on 10/17/2022 and they said there were no recalls associated with this issue and I was on my own for getting it repaired. There have been no warning lights/indications related to this ongoing safety issue. A recall was issued for the 2011-2012 Kia Sedona for the same reason. In that recall (SC188), the fuel rails are to be replaced.
Complete engine failure, knocking like crazy, fuel smell in the oil, The shop said the fuel in the oil broke it down and allowed the motor to fail. We were driving down the highway when it happened with family and kids which was not safe at all. No warning message at all, no check engine light, the shop has inspected and said it's failed. The kia dealership has said many of the Kia's have been recalled for engine failure but not ours? But others with the same motor have been.
Related recalls (1)
Fuel system, gasoline › Fuel injection system › Fuel rail
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2012 Sedona vehicles. The fuel rail may crack from exposure to heat generated within the engine compartment, resulting in a fuel leak.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel rail, free of charge. The recall began June 16, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC188.
Frequently asked questions
Which Kia Sedona years have fuel system problems?
By NHTSA complaints, the 2011 (13), 2002 (12), 2006 (11), 2012 (11) and 2016 (10) model years. Fuel System complaints make up 20% of all complaints for the 2011.
Is there a recall for Kia Sedona fuel system problems?
Yes — 1 recall, including 20V-101 (fuel rail, Feb 21, 2020). Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers; check a specific car with the VIN recall check.
At what mileage do Kia Sedona fuel system problems start?
Across all years, half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 66,000 miles; 44% happened before 50,000 miles.
What part fails most often?
Owners most often name the delivery › fuel pump (6 mentions), followed by the delivery (4).
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.