2004 Scion xA review from North America
"Nice small car for poor people"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
A/C doesn't work in the hot California summer. Toyota issued a Service Bulletin on this issue, but no recall. As a result, dealers don't work with you on this.
Engine knocks sometimes without any reasons. Dealers have no clue and told me "Make sure to put a good grade gasoline". I tried almost all brands with all grades (87, 89 and 91 octane), but no changes. The biggest issue is that it doesn't knock when the dealer service manager drives it.
General comments?
Overall, a very stylish small car with a European flavor.
Very good gas mileage but no power at all.
Manufacturing quality is extremely good for the price ($15K) and is far better than American cars in the >$30K price range. Solid engine seems to go forever as long as I keep changing oil on a regular basis.
Brakes are much better than my 2007 Honda Oddesay.
Road noise is OK. OEM Stereo sounds pretty good.
Paint is very weak. I take care of my car almost like crazy, but the color is already faded on the front bumper.
Recommended reviews
| Boring car trying to appeal to young adults |
|
| Great buy |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2004 |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.5 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 3 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 3 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 40 miles |
| Most recent distance | 38000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda MX5 |
| Date of Entry | 16th April, 2008 |