2004 Toyota Sienna Reviews - Page 3 of 12

I've just noticed that the plastic latch which secures the sunglass storage bin is cracked and, it's obvious that this part will break off completely in the very near future. Even when brand new, the plastic latch / hinge was never tight. It seems that this part was designed so it would last for the warranty period, but not much longer. The latch is integral with the sunglass holder so, once it does break, the bin will fall open and, the entire bin will have to be replaced. I'm surprised because Toyota usually does much better. This post is my first attempt to learn how many other Sienna owners are experiencing this particular problem.

The OEM tires only lasted about 22,000 miles (all my old cars routinely saw 50,000~65,000 miles on tires; I'm not an aggressive / wild driver).

Sometimes, there is a noticeable pause after I press the accelerator. I understand that this is due to Toyota's decision not to use a mechanical linkage. Toyota went with a "fly by wire" electronic control system. I believe that the 2004 Sienna was Toyota's first consumer use of this new control system.

Otherwise, this Sienna has been reliable and, the dealer service department has handled the various recalls well.

Its' a comfortable minivan for long trips. Toyota had safety features such as Daylight Running Lights, Heated Side View Mirrors and, larger rims & tires that were not even available as options on the Honda Odyssey (I don't know if that's changed since I bought my Sienna in 2003).

Wire for automatic door broke, my sister in law with the same car, same year also had it happened. Toyota paid 60% of cost with dealer paying 20% of the cost.

We had a lot of water in our roof, Toyota Canada blamed it on too much snow on my children's boots.

Great car in winter, Toyota customer service does not follow through on complaints.

Tires needed replacing at 19,000 miles and again at 41,000 miles.

Rear lift gate hydraulics were replaced when van was less than two years old.

Car surges and will not accelerate when attempting to accelerate suddenly, like when trying to avoid an accident.

One of the rear window shades had to be replaced after less than one year.

Car is comfortable and reliable. It is great for long trips (>8 hours done regularly).

The regular early replacement of tires is a concern. I see many complaints about it on various websites.

Radiator recalled and replaced by dealer

Uneven tire wear and required replacement at 40k

2 front brake jobs - 25k and 48k.

Car is comfortable and powerful enough. Gets 22mpg average for me. Nice conveniences and well put together.

Nothing to date.

This has been my best vehicle ownership to date. We have now had our Sienna for 2 years and it has been bullet proof. Aside from routine maintenance, gas, oil and replacement of the OEM tires this has been a wonderful experience. No need to shell out extra beyond the CE model, it has it all 5 speed auto, cruise, tilt and telescoping wheel, CD, power windows and locks, flip and fold third seat. We specifically avoided the electric doors and are glad we made the decision to do so. At 6 foot 5 there is loads of space and I have even managed to fit in a full patio set with 6 chairs, umbrella, table and cushions. The grey cloth interior is the way to go, easily cleaned. The cargo area liner is a great investment. (Don't wait for the eggs to get crushed to see why!)

The only niggles would be that the paint finish around the door handles seem to scratch easily, highway mileage estimates are overly optimistic.

Would stongly reccomend this vehicle.