Used 2004 Scion xA Consumer Reviews
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Still Excellent 2004/4 xA @ 253,500 miles !
After owning various small cars: - '56 VW bus - Ducati 160 Monza Jr - 1956 Chevy Carryall (stovebolt 6 - $25 very used) - '67 Fiat 1100 R - 2nd best car, Dunlop radials, non-syncro 1st led to next car (ex could not figure out non-synchro 1st) - '72 Toyota Corolla (2TC hemi 1600) only lasted 439,000 miles! - Plymouth Champ (8 speed 1600) - '74 VW Bug - '85 RX-7 (oh well - sports car days) - '91 Geo Metro - 56 mpg until vacuum lines died - Now driving '04 Scion Xa - 5-speed manual transmission 2/25 Update (20.5 years owned) Now 253,500 miles. Still running like a top, will have to have the rear rubber suspension bushings soon. 8/24 Update (20 years owned) Now 252,500 miles. Repairs this year include A/C compressor replacement under warrantee from DaVinci Motors. This will be the (I think) the 4th compressor ... Alternator replaced at 250,000 miles. Drivers electric window stopped working. DaVinci said to slam door a couple of times, operator now works. 8/23 Update (19 years owned) - Still running like a top - replaced headlight assemblies which started leaking - Ruff-Tuff faux leather drivers seat cover replaced after 6 years - some under hood bearing noise - 248,000 miles 2/21 update - Still going strong, no further repairs, fewer miles now with Covid\D - 235,000 miles 8/20 update - Sent original Pioneer radio for repair - would not eject CD, listened to Stanley Jordan for several years ; -) - 231,000 miles 2/20 update - Had front struts & rear shocks replaced @ 225,000 miles - much less body-roll now - like new handling 8/18 update - 211,000 miles & going strong 6/17 repaint in Dodge Charger brilliant metallic green, easy to spot in parking lot 7/17 had professional install of front faux leather seat covers, fabric @ driver worn thru xA wonderful car , the best of the lot as to handling, seating, view out (although rear blind spots) Optioned w/ rear anti-sway bar, front tower brace, handles like a go-cart, twice the power compared to the Metro MR-2 engine dual overhead cam, 16 valve, variable timing, CHAIN (not belt) - Dan Gurney got 750+ HP from same basic engine Have had to replace A/C compressor (150 K) rear wheel bearings (100 K + -) each bearing assembly cost $300 before installation ! Starter @ 196 K Print shop nearby has 3 xA's w/ 320,000 to 450,000 miles - still going strong - their automatic transmissions & A/C's have all been replaced though. With luck this car will not ever need to be replaced .....
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Solid Little Car
I bought this Scion brand new off the lot and it has been very reliable since then. I have over 103K on the car in just 5 years, but I've only done minor repair to it. It's fuel economy has been dismal, I'm not sure how anyone is getting 38mpg+. But, for the price (around $12,500) it's a bargain and comes standard with many features most cars in the price range do not include.
- Base 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $5,950678 mi away
- Base 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $2,500879 mi away
- Base 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $6,4951,046 mi away
Scion xA - Alot of bang for the buck. Mediocre performance.
I have driven and owned several cars in my driving experience. I have had mixed feeling about this car. Pros Comes relatively loaded for the sticker price. Good mpg, 32-ish. Good solid manual transmission. Impressive reliability. Surprisingly roomy. Cons Sluggish response from a buzzy, noisy engine. You have to be willing to rev it hard, and downshift to achieve passing speed. Narrow wheel base, tall stance results in sloppy handling. Light weight and engine position result in unstable handling in snowbelt. Soundproofing is minimal. Long highway rides are noisy and tedious. I bought new. I lasted 4 years and 36k miles before selling.
fun, but small
Drive it yourself and you will know what I mean. Good for young couples, but no family. It is designed for narrow roads with lower speed limit in Japan, so do NOT drive it too fast in the US. Always stays at the slow lane for your own safety. The car itself is ok. It is just not powerful and strong enough for the traffic condition here in the States.
I Liked It Until the Winter
I purchased this car because my Eclipse decided to break permanently. I wanted a car that was different and got good gas mileage. It fit the bill. It's surprisingly agile and has a great stereo. I truly loved the car until I drove home from work during a small snow storm. I almost ended up sliding over a cliff. This car is terrible in the snow and rain. It is the only car I've ever felt uncomfortable driving in bad weather. Also, the trim in the interior is always making an annoying vibration sound. I'm going to trade it in after I get a good down payment for a Subaru WRX.
Almost 12 Years Later...
I bought my Scion XA in 2004. Feel in love. Great gas mileage, and fun to drive. For the past 4+ years, I've been having noticeable issues. My check engine light is ALWAYS on, despite having taken it in for maintenance. My whole car shakes like hell when idling. I've taken it to so many mechanics, and nobody can fix it. My driver's side window gets stuck (not fun in the winter time). My brakes sometimes feel like they are just going to give out if I'm driving down a hill with snow. I was also rear ended by a car going about 10 miles an hour, and the impact resulted in me having spinal surgery. I was 33 and fit when this happened. If I had to do it again, I wouldn't. Only praise is it's very economical when it comes to gas.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Needs reliability improvements
Bought a leftover in March of 2005. I've put on 55,000 miles since then. Had to replace both rear wheel bearings. The little Scion requires a whole hub assy. with integral reluctor be purchased, as the unit cannot be disassembled. $350.00 each. Add in some labor and it gets expensive fast. A cracked heater core also came at 44,000 miles. Wheel bearing failures and heater core breakage are not common failure modes on modern cars. The fact that the parts are not simple, reasonably priced or factory covered items makes me say, "Stay away from this car." I don't plan to get another one of these. If Scion recalls these and fixes them I might change my mind. Right now, no way.
Reliable is an understatement!
Awhile back I traded in my Mini Convertible for a 4 door compact car. Though there is no flash to this vehicle I am highly pleased with it. After many problems with my Mini, it was a dream to have this car barely have a problem in more than 10 years and it's still going strong! Standard brake repairs, battery and fan belt were the only worries I have ever had. It's not a race car, but it's fast enough. It's not built for comfort, but it's not uncomfortable. It has been just right. The worst of my problems have all been cosmetic, with people opening doors into the side. I'm now thinking of looking into a new car, but it keeps getting put off because I'm still waiting for a PROBLEM after more than 100k miles on it!!! This turned into the best value ever.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Bad Wheel Bearings and Tires
There is a problem with the xA's tires. The 185/65r 15s that it comes with are hard to find and very costy. Also, its wheel bearing are too light for the car. Toyota had this problem with the Echo as well.
Love the car, here's why...
I've read many reviews, about six months worth, on this car, and I finally got one, so I want to make this review worth your read: Gas Mileage: just clocked it out - miles driven (298.8) divided by gas put in at fill-up (10.1) equals a solid 29.8 miles per gallon (I would say this is in mixed driving, but with a dominate city). Interior Room: Not a problem. I'm 6'4", my brothers are 6'6" and 6'8", and a lady friend at 5'7" could all fit in the car with enough comfort for a 25 mile drive, but not enough for a 400 mile drive. Performance: Get the manual transmission. The car handles very well and hugs the road nicely, but, I can really feel all the freeway bumps, but not a big deal. I love it.
I love it, but...
I enjoy driving my Scion xA a lot, and I do drive a lot, which is why I bought it. I have had maintenance issues with the car, having to replace the whole air conditioning unit (warranty), brake problems (corrected by dealer), and a worn out serpentine belt already (changed ourselves), all with less than 45,000 miles. I have noticed some shift troubles with the car, most noticibly when it is cold of course, but at other times as well, revving the engine to over 4,000 rpm's in 3rd. Other then that (lol) I love it!
one down, another on the way
just totalled mine on hwy 5. driving the speed limit, averted another driver's sudden brake slam, lost control and eventually flipped. pulled myself and my 90 lb dog through the passenger window. he's fine. i walked away with only a bruise on my knee. airbags didn't deploy but the car crushed around us like a cocoon, upside down. not even considering another car. soon as i can, it's right back to the scion dealer. though i really do wish the car had u.s crash ratings/tests available...
Great Great Great that is all
I love my Scion xA......it is my first car purchase and I couldn't have picked a better car to buy. I love the quality and the reliability that only Toyota can offer. I love the design of both the exterior and the interior. I it small with enough room to carry me and three friends along and the gas mileage is awesome. I was paying so much for gas and now I pay a lot less.
I love this car!
I am a student who needed a practical, reliable, and economical car to drive. I also wanted something that was fun to drive. Not many cars can encompass all these characteristics effectively. The Scion xA does a great job for being an economy car. It at has been very reliable so far with no major mechanical problems, and I get at least 30 MPG regularly, with the best so far being 35 MPG. It is also very fun to drive, especially witht the five speed. I am a beginner stick shift driver and this car is not only very easy to learn on but also very forgiving. It offers a ton of cargo space if you are willing to fold the rear seats down. It's a Toyota so you can't go wrong with that.
neatpackage
peppy at start but slow passing pickup on freeways.. neat little package and fun to drive. cool hi tech interior . car is a little on the light side. great toyota quality carried to the scion badge. good work.....
fun, stylish, functional
I LOVE THIS CAR !!!!! COULD HAVE BOUGHT A MUCH MORE EXPENSIVE CAR BUT THIS WAS MY CHOICE AND GLAD I DID !! I ALSO BOUGHT 2 MORE FOR MY KIDS!!!!
Love this little monster
I am so glad i got this car when i did very economic i get around 36 to 38 miles to the gallon, that is a plus with the pricey gas now days this is a unique small car with lots of room and a nice looking exterior I will buy it again no problem
I love my Scion XA
I love my little car. We bought it right off the show room floor. It is the best car I have ever had. I would never give it up.
I'm Sold
I was shopping for a commuter car and was considering a Civic or Corrola and then I spotted an Xa. This interesting little car grabbed my attention immediately with its "love it" or "hate it" styling and I love it. Who would of thought you could build a reliable car with a certain cool factor for under $13,000. Well, I drove all 3 which had comparable drives but there was something that I admired about the Scion. Maybe it was how it stood out in a crowd of bland economy cars. Or perhaps, it was the build quality of a Toyota coupled with the 5 year 60k powertrain warranty (which will probably never be used)for the price of a Kia. I'm sold.
Scion xA
We bought one after our Neon was totalled. Despite being smaller on the outside (and cheaper), it has more features (MP3 capability), is fun to drive, is quiet, is RELIABLE (the Neon is NOT), and can still hold 5 people without too much complaint. I think that it is the best buy in the small car market. And 38 mpg on the freeway (with the 5-speed) isn't bad either.
Incredible value
I was initially attracted to this car because of the fantastic interior quality. The more I shopped around and researched the xA, I realized that it's quality and value were impossible to beat. The engine, despite being 1.5l, is a nice surprise. It isn't a V8, but for the fuel economy, it picks up nicely and is a joy to drive.
Scion is great
Great car, fun to drive.
Recommend Highly!
The Scion xA is agile, fun, safe, and gets fantastic milage. I've had mine for almost 2 years and I still love it! It's a great car for someone who wants style but affordability.
Its not the car is the owner
Well I have no complaints this car as over 100,000 miles and let me tell you I have only done simple maintenance on my car. This car is really great, stereo is great I even put 18 inch wheels and didn't change any shocks or anything. Its run's like now but will loose a little power after this many mile's. Maybe because I push this car a lot I mean a lot.
Awsome
This is the best car! Great fuel efficiency, big inside, great features. Definate car of the future!
You ALMOST got it this time Toyota.
I was passing by the local Toyota dealer by my house and to my surprise I saw a Scion in front. This is a surprise because I live in Illinois and Scions are not being sold here yet. I test drove it and it is very unique (now at least); I was being stared at by the drivers of the tuned Hondas. This car definitely has style. I like the center-mounted speedometer; it has plenty of space in the back for three of my friends (no tall people welcome). I think this would be great as a first car for someone who wants style but is willing to sacrifice speed.
My Scion xA
Being 6' and over 200lbs I need a large drivers compartment,and even though the front doors are the largest body panel the car has a great deal of interior room. The buying experience was super simple and quick. Sales people are trained for scion customers and it shows. Still don't think 35+mpg will ever happen @65mph @3000rpms.
Scion xa
Bought this car because my 99 Civic LX was totaled in an accident. In the mean time I had to drive various other rental cars, including the Mazda Protege and Toyota Prius. However, I found that when I was behind the wheel of the xa, it was the most comfort driving I felt after my accident. The car has equivalent amount of power as the Civic and the interior seating is comfortable. There's not much acceleration speed but that's not my primary consideration for the quality of a vehicle anyway. It is better deal than a Civic LX because it is cheaper and comes with ABS brakes. I can also definitely say that it feels way nicer than a Protege.
fun to drive in city
It is realy fun to drive in the city. You feel comfort in it. First time I took my X-A from Orange County to Ventura county ( Simi Valley ) about 70 Miles one way I found ride on freeways it is not as comfotable as in city you feel even small bumps or uneven roads on the freeways. Also suddenly brake at the speed of abve 60 mph can shfit the car left or right hand. Must be carefull. Have fun and ejoy it.
XA= great value
Scion is commited to customer satisfaction. I`ve owned this car for over 6 months and have no complaints at all.
I'm Glad I chose this car, BUT..........
I loved the no haggle pricing. And, because it's a Toyota, it's gonna last. It is also stylish, and looks like more expensive than it actually is. The car is fun to drive in the city, and is fine on the freeway. Yes, it's a bit noisy at 75 mph, and passing takes a little extra time with the auto, but remember, it's a sub-compact, under 14k. I bought this car because, I am single, live in the city, and have a short commute. It seats 4 people fine, but usually, I keep the rear seats down to add to the total cargo capacity. Great gas mileage of course. Everyone other person has a Corolla, and I chose a Scion XA instead.
A New Driver Must Have!~^_^~!
The car looks super cute and the size is easy for new driver to handle. I am a new driver. It saves gas, it saves u money and it looks great. The car gives u more flexibility since the seats at the back can be pulled down easily so u can buy as much groceries as u wanna to. Little effort is needed if u want to accelerate your car. U'll love this car if u live in San Francisco since the parking space is so scared in the city -_-; I love this car and all of my friends love my car too....What are u waiting for??? If u need more room in the car...check out XB! I feel great when i test drive that car since the interior is brighter than XA and it is more roomy.
Getting another one !
I bought a xA 2 weeks ago, was a little concered about others saying it was lacking power. I think the power is fine, no compaints here. The ride is a little stiff when travelling on a rough road, but other than that, it's a great car. I'm planning on purchasing another for my wife within a week.
Best hatchback
Since we have a small family we were determined to get a hatchback, and the Scion is great. We are moving to Boston next month so this is going to be a great vehicle for us. Very usable and seems reliable.
the best for the buck!!!!!!
this is a fantastic car. smart and reliable. this is a great buy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Great Car
I went to the dealer looking for an ECHO and came away with a SCION. The SCION is based on the ECHO (which I hear is being discontinued), but is so much better looking. Add to this all the standard options you get that you would have to pay for with the ECHO and the SCION is by far the better deal.
my xA
i love this car, its fun to drive, different than alot of other cars so you feel unique, i love it. it may be small on the outside but me and my friends fit comfortably in it. my best friend got one too!
hELOF A FUN CAR
THE GAS MILEAGE IS GREAT, GET AWESOME LOOKS FROM PEOPLE, ALL AND ALL A GREAT CAR
hey
Great car for the right price!
Love This Car
Best buy you can ask for. Looked for a car for over two years and discovered Scion while looking at a Toyota. The "as is" pricing policy was such a pleasant experience compared to most dealers I visited. The car drives very smoothly, comes with great options, looks amazing, and gets unbelievable gas milage and insurance rates. Be prepared to receive glances and questions everywhere you go.
I love it
I bought this car almost 8 months ago and absolutely love it. I have received so many compliments on it. A lot of people have mistaken it for a hybrid.
scion rulez
so far so good. d vehicles fun to drive. its a headturner.
Haven't put gas in it yet
Loved the no pressure sale. This is the way all car purchases should be. At only 100hp I expected lousy performance, but with such low weight, it zips! 60-80mph on the freeway with no problems. Seudo Recarro seats sit nice front and back. It took about 30minutes to get used to those center guages. Now my other cars seem weird.
SCION xA 2004
I LIKE SMALL CARS AND THIS IS THE BEST SMALL CAR THAT I HAVE OWNED. IT HAS EVERYTHING ON IT AND I DIDN'T THINK THAT I WOULD LIKE THIS, BUT I DO. IT IS A REMARKABLE CAR.
mini suv modified
i was looking for a crv or a rav4. but after taking a look at the scion i realized that it was close enuff to both except for the fact that it was higher. mileage beats any of the mini suvs out there. space-wise its close enuff. the trunk space could be a bit bigger, but the 60/40 split for the back seats help a lot. its roomier than it looks. 108 hp engine with 105 torque, so i wouldnt try to lug anything around. but i dont recommend you do that with a rav4 or a crv anyway. handles good. suspension is decent for a japanese car. dont expect it to be a dodge. overall, i think its a great purchase. itll keep me goin for a LONG while.
I'm Sold
I've had my Scion XA fora little over a week and love it. I traded in my Acura TL. that should tell you right there, I prefer the simple pleasure of the Scion over the luxury of my old Acura. I love the size, outside and in, the gas mileage it gets, as well as the overall standard features I got for the price. Don't waste your time looking for cars, Scion is all you need.
Scion xa
I love my car! Its nice to have a compact car that sits higher and not on the floor. It handles nicely, has good gas mileage, and is cute too! The one and only thing I dont like is that somehow the way the gas tank is designed, causes the gas pump to kick off when fueling up. So, you have to manually fuel up at times.
good buy
its a good buy and turns heads as well
My car
I enjoy the car very much, the interior is more spacious than it looks, and people who have never heard of the car think that it is an expensive car when it really isn't. The only downside is the performance aspect of it, face it, you won't be speeding down the highway with one of these bad boys unless you tie a jet engine to the roof. But overall, for someone who wants a car that looks nice and is inexpensive, the scion is the way to go.
Scion xA
My Scion xA is Great! It came with all toeh features of more expensive cars, and size wise it's easy to find parking in San Francsico. It's a little jitteryg when hitting potholes or rough roads, but otherwise rides well. I've had a reocurring problem with the passenger side rear speaker, and the dealership seems either unwilling or unable to correct the problem. Also, I have developed a rattle in the rear cargo cover that will not go away. Otherwise, a well put together car with many options that I'll be adding over the next few months.