2004 Toyota Sienna used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Doors won't lock, open or latch150 owner complaints, usually around 85,000 miles, owners paid about $1,700

  Test every door handle, lock and latch from inside and outside, including the trunk or tailgate.

• Seat belt won't latch or retract43 owner complaints, usually around 80,000 miles

  Pull every seat belt out fully and make sure it retracts and latches.

• Hesitation when accelerating41 owner complaints, usually around 12,000 miles

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• TiresRecall number 14V273000, May 22, 2014
• Power trainRecall number 13V429000, Sep 26, 2013
• Engine and engine coolingRecall number 11V539000, Nov 9, 2011
• StructureRecall number 10V160000, Apr 20, 2010
• EquipmentRecall number 10V036000, Feb 3, 2010
• EquipmentRecall number 09V234000, Jun 25, 2009
• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 09V023000, Jan 16, 2009
• StructureRecall number 08V244000, Jun 3, 2008
• Seat beltsRecall number 05V327000, Jul 20, 2005
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 03V291000, Aug 12, 2003

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical...Dec 6, 2024
• To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used...Dec 6, 2024
• The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix...Dec 6, 2024
• Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal...Dec 5, 2024
• Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad...Dec 3, 2024
• Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal...May 17, 2024

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.