Used 2004 Kia Spectra Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Will stay with Kia
sargrebe, 07/25/2011
2004 Kia Spectra LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
We bought our first new car in 04. It is technically an 04 model, with an 05 body style. We loved this car so much that when my husband wanted a new one we bought an 08 manual for him. Great Gas mileage! Great starter car for a young family. The only cons are that the gas tank straps failed after 5 years, and I had to have those replaced, scary! And the interior after 8 years is failing, seat is falling apart.
Cannot Align?
tommywebb, 03/18/2008
2004 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
When I got the car it needed an alignment, should have made them fix it then. We loved the car. We paid cash for it. Well.........I took it to get new tires and an alignment in Oct. of '07 and the alignment tech told there is no camber adjustment on the KIA so he could not align the car. WHAT? He then proceeded to tell me I had to buy an aftermarket kit and it would cost $200 to install so my car could be aligned. I thought they were just fishing for money. So I called the dealer and sure enough I had to buy an aftermarket kit. WHAT?I bought a car you can't get aligned! KIA said it adjusts, the dealer and the tech says no. Now I am stuck with a car I can never get aligned. Never buy another!
PROBLEM FROM DAY 1
debrastark, 04/23/2012
2004 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
22 of 28 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle from a Barrie Ontario dealer in Sept 2004..it had 18000 on it (I was told it was a rental car b4 I bought it)-in any case the check engine light was on from day one. The most disturbing is when you would go it would hesitate and not seem to "catch" a gear..no power-you would turn it off turn back on and it would seem to reset itself. I took it to Barrie Kia before we moved and they said "if the problem isnt occuring right then we cant see it"-I told them while it's still under 20,000 if I find its transmisison related later I wont be happy. In any case I now work at Honda (thank the lands) I have thus far replaced the alternator and battery. There are FIVE codes (all
I LIKE MY SPECTRA
KAYG, 12/03/2003
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
I have had my new car for little over three months and I love driving it. Even with a four cl. On the open highway it handels good, I love the style. The only neg. thing I can say is the sterring when turned to sharp it screams.
KIA Motors Unfair to Consumers
Pirate62, 01/15/2004
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought a KIA and had the thing for 1 year. An electrical fire behind dash destroyed car. I called KIA and asked them to correct this issue. KIA refused.
Great first time car!
Rob Richter, 04/29/2009
2004 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had my Spectra for 2 years now and not once have I been to the mechanic for any problems. I've put about 13,000 miles on it and so far so good. City mileage is about 22-23 not bad but could be a little better. Transmission is kinda rough shifting from third to fourth gear sometimes. If you can find a low mileage Spectra (the newer models are even better in my opinion) you will not be dissapointed!
Good Little car-exceeded my expectations
Teri, 01/23/2019
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Well it is now a 15 year old car and it is still going strong. I am the original owner and I have kept up with all maintenance. It only has 50K on it ( iwork close to home) so it may not compare to a car with more miles on it. I have really beat the heck out of it and had no problems. I would take it on a long trip today and feel fine about it. So far I have replaced the back brakes and the timing belt. The latter I did simply as a preventive measure because of the mileage on it. There was one recall regarding the passenger airbag. It is a little rattly but it is an old car. Though a very simple car - no bells and whisles- I don't need anything fancy)-it has served me well and I intend to keep it til it dies. It has a big trunk and folds down back seats which have been handy. I replaced the tires with better ones. It gets about 30 mpg highway and 28 in town.The interior is very user freindly- I love the map lights and the sunglass compartment. None of the trim has fallen off or broken - door handles etc are fine etc-and it feel like a more sturdy body than my friendss 2013 corrolla whos trim has fallen off and my bumpers are definelty more solid than his car. I have had some dings and and bumps and it didnt fall apart - unlike some new cars that seem to be more fragile. It accellerates just fine- the transmission has worked well- and I drive it on curvy mountain roads regularly. So for a simple commuter car, it has been perfect. I think that the more complicated a car is- the more that can go wrong.I love that Kia gave a ten year 100 warranty on the car. That is not the case with other brands. Altho nothing went wrong that needed to be replaced. My mechanic said that will probaby get another 50-75k on it. It is not likely that there are many Spectras of this age that have such low mileage- but if you find one and just need a simple car-go for it.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Don't But a Kia
karen dowds, 05/02/2009
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 8 people found this review helpful
Experienced what felt like a transmission slipping problem before warranty was up - dealer test drove car with me and felt problem but wouldn't svc it without check engine light being on. Light came on finally and fun began. Murray, dealer, monkeyed with car 6 times and light kept coming back on - problem grew worse till car would stop. Had to go to Eastern Regional Office to open a case. After 6 more trips to dealer and a special kia tech having to come out to look at car (tech had to come out for other cars that Murray couldn't fix too) and replacement of wire harness ($900 part which did not correct problem), another tech FINALLY found o2 sensor problem, light off for 5 days.
Car for those in the know
JWBB, 07/03/2005
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Its a 4D sports car with a sedan body like the BMWs, the Lotus Cortinas, Toyota Supra, but at a much more reasonable price. Yes, it has AC and few conveniencies. But its got the old soul: maneuverablility, torque and the tech. And, its durable and realiable. It ain't no Cadillac or a tricked out pimp ride, and its 2L DOHC Vortec, IFE has what it takes. Good for short as well as long hauls. Mac struts, 4Discs, Ind. sus., and its amazingly quiet. If you aren't a really experienced sports car driver, I might not recommend it. But its little sister, the Reo and bigger brother Amante are rated #1 for safety. Best ride for the money I've ever had.
Great car, absolutely love it
Roger Henders, 06/27/2004
2004 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a nice car to drive, and very affordable, highly recommended:
Not to good
Edward, 03/14/2016
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had the car for more than three years. Firts year no problems except for radiator replacement $125 total not to bad Secund year a bunch of problem came out Alternator Power steering pump Axles went out Speedmeter gone Battery Third year sold it for less than 1000 dls Dont buy it
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Good Car for the Price
lorijohnston, 07/21/2011
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am surprised at some of the other reviews. I bought this car used with 16,000 in early 2005. At the time, I needed an inexpensive and reliable car to get me back and forth between work, home and school. Six years later, I still own the car and I still love it. The only major expense was a timing belt change at 102,000 miles. Over the years I have had only one mysterious problem. The transmission at times would stick in one gear. Every time I have encountered this issue, I simply pulled over, put the car in park for a second, returned the car to drive and the problem ended. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone who needed reliability & affordability. I own 2 Kias today!
Not Bad!
twhnumber1, 08/12/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I was very impressed with the warranty offered, as well as the price--the main reason I chose this car. I bought this 5/04 and already have about 6700 miles on it and average about 31-32 mpg. My fiancee is 6'6" and fits very well in the passenger side with plenty of room. The car has a different look to it, so I have lots of people checking it out. I am so far very satisfied with this vehicle! The back seat room is decent for a compact car and trunk space is pretty good as well. All buttons are easy to read and the night lights aren't too bright.
2004 Kia Spectra
LLBinHOU, 04/10/2008
2004 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought this Kia used 8 months ago and I LOVE this car! It has smooth manual shift, feels sporty, great on the mileage and very fun to drive! No complaints. None!
Great so far
snbcdad, 06/07/2007
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used to replace my 12 year old Altima. It's much smaller outside, but just as comfy and more rear seat legroom (I'm 5'11"). Feels solid, peppy on take off, VERY respectable trunk size for its class, and cheap to buy. Gas mileage started out low (25.5 in mixed driving), but has steadily improved with warmer weather (31.6 in mixed driving). Not up to par with the Corolla for gas mileage, but rivals it everywhere else. Very happy with my purchase. Safety features were a sell along with price. Also, the outside styling is very nice.
Worst car I've owned
A. May, 07/18/2006
2004 Kia Spectra LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
We have had nothing but problems with this car. We seem to be constantly going in for repairs and most recently have been told we need a new compressor for $1200. This car is only two years old and should not be having so many problems. The dealer will not cover this problem. I will never buy a Kia again. Our other car is a 99 Hyundai and while it needs some repairs we are spending more on repairs on this new Kia.
black and fully loaded
pbsigma93, 06/04/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love the newly redesigned Kia Spectra. I have a 2004 Black Sedan fully loaded with a sunroof and very stylish.
Questionable reliability
FASV, 09/30/2010
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I still like this car; however; only after 55,000 miles the alternator failed and at 67,000 the ac compressor had to be rebuilt. The alternator repair was covered by the warranty but the ac I had to pay for it. Recently I replaced the brakes for the first time and the timing belt and engine belts. Tires twice and battery twice as well. Other than that I still like the car but will think twice again of buying another Kia. The 60,000 miles warranty is for a reason.
Kia Spectra
Jdowns37, 01/18/2004
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Slow Take off Speed Tire poor traction Lacks sporty look need two door version arm console weak needs beefed up
love my kia
sexiestinpink, 06/21/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
my new kia handles very well , corners highway ect.its good on gas although all cars could improve on that!the warranty is excellent.it is comfortable and the design is kind of sporty.the ride is very smooth. i havent had it long enough to know of any future problems,i feel very safe in my kia spectra. i will say it is a nicely designed car.im very happy with it. anyone who sais kia's are no good , they are wrong!!
good
darchey, 08/02/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
: o) Solid, reliable car for a good price.
21 year old who's content
Jeffd5151, 06/26/2004
2004 Kia Spectra LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
as my first "real" car, I was quite pleased with not only the purchase, but the actual car itself; I'm 21,which means I like fast. I got it. I'm 21, which means I like safety, I got 6 air bags, and side impact bars. I'm 21, and I love my car. It's stable in the wind, (upwards of 50mph winds today in austin,tx) and the design rolls the rain right off; no fear of water spots. fun to drive, weather it's my friends, or (gasp) my family.
Bust with Kia
terri, 06/17/2004
2004 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Was in shop 3 times before 3000 miles. Nothing but trouble at 14,000 now. Will never buy another, will not recommend anyone buy a Kia.
Best deal we ever made
ry-guy, 07/04/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We used to have a 2000 Corolla without any extras. For some reason the check engine light kept coming on and we had to keep paying $80.00 to get it checked out. We finally decided to trade it in for the Kia with an awesome warranty and so far we have loved it. It has been the best deal we ever made. We got everything on it including sunroof, foglights, keyless entry, 6 airbags . . . the works! And we lowered our payments by 20.00 a month. It is a tad louder than the Corolla and the gas mileage is not quite as good but it definitely was worth the trade. Intererior quality is superb. Attention to detail is outstanding. Good job Kia!
my car
tnbluiis, 02/02/2004
2004 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Its a cute car fun to drive and really cheap on gas
Misleading Sticker
Asian Driver, 07/09/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Car drives OK. Well handling. Sticker shows will drive up to 34MPG. But I am only getting 27MPG on most of freeway drive after 4000 miles. Is this only me or others getting the same?
My Kia Spectra
Mayday, 05/21/2004
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
An over-all wonderful vehicle. Excellent price and runs with the big dogs. Why pay thirty-thousand dollars for a luxury car when the Kia Spectra is equal to those cars if not better? Any vehicle will get you where you need to go, so why not be the smarter consumer and pay half the price for an equal amount of standards? And with gas prices soring, the Kia Spectra is perfect on gas. So when you can't see around that big SUV in front of you, just remember that soon they won't be able to afford gas and that will leave you on the open road to try out some power! My next new car will again be a KIA!!
2004 kia spectra
jcjnt, 01/13/2004
2004 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great warranty. Excellent price. But poor gas milage in first month. Not driving hard the gas mileage in regular conditions is 21-24 miles per gallon.
Spectra Lover
NCZ9300, 06/12/2004
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Spectra... Best car Ive owned!
My Lemon
SheilaMarie, 02/16/2004
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have put more milage on this vehicle taking it back and forth twice a month to have it repaired, than for any other reason. The dealership, is wonderful -- they are a great bunch of people and I would buy another vehicle from them as long as it wasn't ever another Kia. This is a Lemon. It is a piece of junk and I have evoked the lemon law on it and am just waiting on a reply from my attorney and the manufacturer.
VERY ECONOMICAL
JUMPINSTEVIEG, 06/22/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I JUST PURCHASED THIS CAR WITH THE NEW BODY STYLE AND ITS A BIG MAKEOVER FROM THE LAST ONE
Kia Spectra is Great!
wa_wabbit, 01/25/2004
2004 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
While my Kia is small, it is big on style, mileage, handling, safety, and fun-ability! The buying experience was first-class, and the warranty is unbeatable! The only thing I can find wrong with my Spectra, is that the front seat safety belts are tight on the hips. Other than that, I have absolutely no complaints for this entry- level car! It's an extremely user- friendly auto!
Overall pleased.
kiaveteran, 09/01/2008
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car when I was driving a predominantly city commute, and the gas mileage was rather disappointing (no higher than 29, mostly 25-27). However, I've moved, and I have a more rural cruising commute, and gas mileage has gone up to 30-32. Nice comfort, interior and storage space for a small car, and reliability has been excellent. I get in, and it starts up the first time every time. A little too much lean in the corners with any semblance of speed, but a comfy ride. A great commuter car, and the safety features are a class above the price class. Kia is worth checking out, and it seems the word is getting out about that.
2004 Kia
Mack, 07/06/2009
2004 Kia Spectra LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent Vehicle!! I only had to buy new tires and perform the regular maintenance for this vehicles since I purchased it. Not a problem with it. If you take care of this vehicle, it will take care of you. Many people do not take care of their cars and expect them to last a long time. I tell you what, I am keeping my KIA and if I need to buy another vehicle, it will be a KIA! It is cheaper, I have all the toys and it rides great!
No Quality Control
tschux, 02/24/2004
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Spectra brand new, the air conditioner went out on the drive home. Parked it on my driveway and noticed a puddle of oil under the car, after owning the car for 30 minutes!!! The car has been in the shop 6 times in 9 months, all different things wrong with it. Spend a few extra $$ and get something other than this car.
If Kia keeps this up the Big guys better
Stylish, 07/23/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My second Kia in one year. I bought a 2003 Kia Sedona and love it, now I looked into the All New Spectra. I love it. Looks great, good on gas and the engine is peppy. If you're in the market give Kia a try. I paid $10,900 for the EX need I say more.
my new kia has bad wiring
DIXIE BELLVILLE, 01/21/2004
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
when ibought my car the clock did not work, after fighting for 1 1/2 mo i am told the wiring is bad . then i have to take a full day off work because they can't work with me for repair. i don't feel i should have to pay a deposit on a rental car when it's not my fault the wiring is bad. i lose $100 because i have to take aday off work. i would not recomend this dealership to my worst enemy,also i will tell anyone who ask me what ithink of it
NICE CAR WITH A NICE PRICE
Frank_ur, 07/09/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
THE CAR IS COOL AND COMFORTABLE
Better Than You'd Think
Vince Lucero, 02/02/2005
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded my car in for this car. Very Happy that I did it. Great on gas, excellent handling. Can't beat the price and warranty for this type of car. All I have to say is that before you go and buy a Honda, Toyota look into this. I believe you'll be satisfied.
my magic kia ride
marc the shark, 07/10/2004
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for approx. $10,000 after the discounts. It is very comfortable and performs well. I do not notice any significant lack of power or braking deficits as reported. It came equipped with a cd player, auto and air and for my money is a better bargain than many of its counterparts. I have had the car for a year and I have had no problems with it.
GREAT VALUE - GREAT CAR
JACK IN TACOMA, 05/01/2005
2004 Kia Spectra LX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drove off the lot with a brand new 2005 Spectra LX, 5 speed - paying only $9450. What a deal !! The car drives great. The comfort and quality is on par with Toyota. My friends say "you bought a Kia" BUT when I show them the car, take them for a ride, and then tell them the selling price, they simply can't believe it. Everyone who sees the car is shocked by the quality, craftsmanship and the BANG for the BUCK.
Great Car
bmh41202, 07/17/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is just an all around great car. From the 2.0 liter DOHC engine. To the sleak interior design.
What a Great Engine
Kia is the Best, 07/29/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has everything a person wants. especially the EX trim. Before considering a Honda, Toyota, or just any car, check out your Kia dealer because you'll get the best rebates and best service. This car has SIX AIRBAGS!!! can you believe it? Better than just any car in this planet. I love my new Kia. Kia is the Best!!!
Good value Compact
kmnowak2002, 07/22/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The new design, 2004.5, looks more impressive and fun than the old model. The long warranty gives piece of mind. However, even though I bought the upgraded model, it still isn't a car I like to get in to every morning. The rebates and low payments were too much to walk away from. But if you can stretch a little more on payments, buy something else.
Love my 2004 Spectra!
MLom, 02/28/2004
2004 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am shocked to see what a lame review was left on the Spectra. That is what prompted me to give you my HONEST opinion of the 2004 Spectra. Its fun to drive, handles really well, has a great sound system, no rattles, very reliable, quiet, and cute to top it off. Not to mention the warranty is the best you can get. I LOVE MY KIA!
do not buy
johnson kia, 07/27/2004
2004 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
no pick up, poor gas milage.. dealship does not honor warranties, turn knobs for seat poositioning in poor location unable to use, car excellerates while at stop
Overall good
L. Roberson, 05/21/2006
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I like the car, although it fails to have enough leg room for medium to tall height drivers. It has a slow start-up speed but once it gets past about 30 it's smooth sailing. For an economy car, it's overall good.
not bad
almedinaizemir, 07/31/2004
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
it is a very nice and comfortable ride, very smooth and very fun to drive. It is very quiet and good on gas.
My cool kia
Chris hanaburgh, 03/23/2004
2004 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my kia. A lot of people don't give enough respect to the kia's but I'll tell you this much, when the gas prices rose I wasn't bothered by it. The spectra has to be one of the most comfortable sedans ever made.
my screamin' spectra
jimwags, 06/27/2005
2004 Kia Spectra EX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
so far at 3000 miles my spectra is on par with the 91 corolla i bought new then traded for the 05 kia. it has more power than i expected and highway manners are better than the 05 corolla i almost paid 2500.00 more for with less features than spectra. mpg hiway is now up to 36.8 i am looking for 38.5 @70 mph. great warranty on this car worth looking at seriously............