2004 Toyota Sienna Review
Fuel Economy
18 - 20 mpg
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
The 2004 Sienna has all the right stuff to take on the toughest minivan competitors, even the much acclaimed Honda Odyssey.
Pros
Reliable Camry genes, refined V6, fold-flat 60/40 third-row seat, seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations, available all-wheel drive.
Cons
Unusual gearshifter placement, doesn't feel as "carlike" as the Honda Odyssey, some desirable options aren't available on all trims.
What's New for 2004
The Sienna has been completely redesigned for 2004. Roomier and more powerful than before, Toyota's minivan entry now has the all-important fold-flat third-row seat, as well as a choice of seven- or eight-passenger seating (on lower level trims) and available all-wheel drive.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Great Reliable Family Vehicle
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 10 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Toyota Sienna LE 8 Passenger Fwd 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
Review
We bought our Sienna in 03, and had for 6 years. We just recently sold to a family of 5. We were sad to see it go, but ready for something more sporty. Only issues were A/C motor, window off track, and tires wore down quickly. There was a weird noise when windows were down, and the drive by wire technology caused a jerking motion sometimes upon acceleration. These are minor to us considering 126,000 miles and no major mechanical issues. Has lots of room, and rides unbelievably smooth. We just bought an 05 Highlander, and hope to have same experience.
Favorite Features
Smooth ride, extremely roomy, and gas mileage.
Suggested Improvements
Noise factor very annoying, and the drive by wire jerking when accelerating (intermittent) needs improving.
Thinking of another brand
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 7 | Fun-to-Drive: | 7 | Build Quality: | 7 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 3 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Toyota Sienna XLE Limited 7 Passenger Fwd 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
Review
I have owned five Toyotas- trucks, cars, station wagon, Loved them all until this van. It has been nothing but problems, expense and disappointment. Battery replaced twice, display lights not trusted, VSF and TRAC failed within 14 months, radiator replacement, brakes constantly needing work, cover casket needs replacement, radiator seam cracked again- recalls. Electrical breaking down so auto door unlock no longer works when turn car off, rear gate breakdown/dangerous etc. A most expensive vehicle and one that has me wondering if my next car will be a Toyota after more than twenty years. Reminds me of the poor quality American brands- can't tell you how disappointed I am.
Favorite Features
I like ride and comfort. Design is very nice for a van.
Suggested Improvements
Get back to quality. The problems are simply too many and too disconnected for it to be simple coincidence- get back to Toyota basics but I think you have already lost me.
One Headache After Another-Unreliable
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 5 | Fun-to-Drive: | 7 | Build Quality: | 6 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 5 |
| Fuel Economy: | 5 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Toyota Sienna LE 7 Passenger Fwd 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
Review
If there is an example that Toyota doesn't have its thumb on quality control, it is me. I jumped the car 14 times the first year I owned it even though the battery checked out O.K. They said it didn't need to be replaced. Just after the warranty expired, it needed to be replaced. Power door broke-$1500 to fix. Electric locks go crazy and can't open doors. Have to crawl out. Has never shifted smoothly although transmission checks out O.K. Frequently lurches and downshifts unexpectedly. Radiator replaced in 2nd year. None in stock had to wait a week. The rocker panels rusted in the first year. I had to change the tires in the first month - not good on snow and ice. Generally, a bad car.
Favorite Features
Turning radius is brilliant. 2nd seat side windows roll down. Interior is comfortable and spacious. Rear storage is very good. Light blue on the instrument panel is nice.
Suggested Improvements
Overall quality, especially that pertaining to electronics. It is a little scary not to be able to get out of your car. I would also suggest an automatic light shut off. The air conditioning vent in the second row blows on passenger's heads. I have heard a number of complaints about that.
Dissatisfied
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 5 | Fun-to-Drive: | 4 | Build Quality: | 1 |
| Comfort: | 6 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 2 |
| Fuel Economy: | 6 | Exterior Design: | 7 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Toyota Sienna LE 7 Passenger Fwd 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
Review
I own a 2004 (8 seating) Toyota Sienna LE. I have had to replace tires 2 times. There have been 5 or 6 recalls. It is in the shop today with loud humming noise from engine. But the most disappointing thing is that the dash has split in 3 places. I contacted the dealership and Toyota directly and they offered me no help. The car was beyond its warranty, but I have owned 8 cars (4 Toyotas) during my driving life and have never had a dash split. Toyota told me that I must have done something to it, although they could not suggest what it might be. The van is kept in a garage when not in use and I always crack the windows when it is summer time. Cannot recommend Toyota anymore.
Favorite Features
Suggested Improvements
Improve quality of carpet, mats, plastic coverings on the seats where they fold. Put tires on vans that are made to carry the weight of the van.
Be wary
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 4 | Fun-to-Drive: | 5 | Build Quality: | 2 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 2 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2004 Toyota Sienna LE 7 Passenger Fwd 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 5A)
Review
I have read many positive reviews of the Sienna but ever since I bought this car in 2003 it has been a money pit. I have replaced the tires...twice! Also, last spring replaced the radiator and now the auto shop tells me I need to sink another $500 into the axle shaft. I hate this car.
Favorite Features
The 'fluff' options are great. We love the fold down seats and rear audio control.
Suggested Improvements
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