2004 Kia Sedona EX Brakes Problems

“I have been going to Kia for years complaining of a strange intermittent groaning sound coming from the brakes at low speed stops. It would never make noise at the dealer and would only make the noise sometimes. Never for the same reason. It was very random. This time I was driving for several hours ( city traffic) where I began to hear the sound. After about 20 minutes or so I smelled rubber or tar. Thought it was from the street repaving but when we passed the construction I could still smell it. The car began to drive as though the transmission was not working properly. …”

“While driving today, I noticed a whining noise, with a slight grinding noise to it as well. Initially thinking it was the brakes, I listened closer and realized it was not happening when braking but rather seemed to be happening when turning, primarily during acceleration. Soon after the turn as I steadied speed, the noise would decrease or disappear. After the first few times making turns however, in addition to the noise the steering wheel also became very stiff and extremely difficult to turn. It progressed so suddenly and severely that I was worried I may not make it home without crashing. …”

“I, like others on this site, have taken my Kia to the dealer for brakes issues. Grinding and stuttering while braking. Kia has corrected the problem three times, and all three times have told me it was resolved. The fourth time I was told it was no longer a problem that it was indicative of the brake system! My service manager at the Kia dealership informed me that Kia is well aware of the problem , but chooses to ignore it, and that he has had quite a few customers with the same issues. This problem has been ongoing since our purchase of the car in feb 2004.”

“2004 Kia Sedona Ex. There is a hydraulic system containing a reservoir which controls rear brake force on turns and other braking maneuvers. This reservoir is subject to leaks (location -- between rear wheels). Leaking from this reservoir and low pressure triggers the 'check engine' and 'brake failure' lights. Temporary fix is to refill the reservoir, but this leakage problem appears systemic from manufacture. If left unattended, control over the rear braking system is severely diminished.”

“5/05 noticed humming on occasion from rear wheels at highway speeds 6/30/05 received recall notice that rear hub assembly/or bearings may need replacing. …”