2005 Scion xA 1.5L from North America

Summary:

They never should have stopped building the xA

Faults:

Just recently bought this vehicle, and wanted to log its history. Decided this would be a great place, so others could also see for themselves.

General Comments:

Honestly always wanted one, but didn't want to spend for a new one. I got a good deal on this one, and so far I enjoy it very much. The front seats help give the car an awesome comfort when driving, and it's very nimble. I can see why they put a larger engine in the newer model Scions, as it's a little under powered.

I plan to keep this car a number of years. It has a very functional interior, and the mileage is good (33 hwy so far).

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 23rd May, 2011

27th May 2011, 10:53

Just calculated my city mileage: 24.86. So I've got approx 25/33, which is close to the 27/35 that's normally advertised.

4th Aug 2011, 00:48

Just wanted to update. Mileage dropped quite noticeably this summer. Using the air conditioning dropped me from combined 29/30 to 25/26.

It's at least a 10% drop.

18th Dec 2011, 09:39

Adding new update. Replaced plugs, coil, belts and battery.

Battery was probably original, so I wanted to bring it up to speed for the winter.

Plugs and coil were replaced due to poor maintenance by previous owner. Plugs were to be replaced at 30K, but weren't. Stressed coil. Replaced and runs fine.

Replaced belts due to chirping. Found out that 1 of the belts I had replaced after purchase was the wrong one.

Got 75K on her now, and she's running well.

2004 Scion xA from North America

Summary:

Fun to drive!

Faults:

Nothing. This car has worked perfectly with no breakdowns. I take it in for service at the dealership every 5000 miles.

The xA tends to understeer a bit and has a little too much body roll when cornering, but a simple bolt on rear sway bar helps tremendously (mine is from TRD). You can also upgrade the suspension with some lowering springs and struts, which I'm sure will help even more.

General Comments:

I love this car. I was driving a '94 Volvo 960 that kept breaking down. I needed a new car because the repair bills was just too high. I chose the Scion xA (blue 2004) because it was cheap, reliable, and fun to drive. I'm a student so it fits the bill perfectly. It's very easy to park and is a great car for someone looking to learn how to drive standard (very easy and forgiving clutch).

The cargo capacity is unbelievable with the rear seats folded down. It's got more room for cargo than most other small cars, including sedans. It's very easy to work on if you are into DIY. I've upgraded the audio system and it sounds great, especially with a subwoofer in the back since the small and open trunk design makes for great acoustics. I plan on keeping this car for a very long time.

I might replace it in the future with something faster like a Mazdaspeed 3 or Volkswagen GTI.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 17th December, 2009

2006 Scion xA Standard 1.5L DOHC I4 engine from North America

Summary:

Awesome purchase

Faults:

Air conditioner didn't work after a month. Had it replaced. (original dealer)

A few months later. Same problem but with a loud rattling noise. Had it replaced at original dealer.

Another few months later same problem, no sound. Different dealer. Replaced more parts (still under warranty at least!). Problem fixed.

Loud clicking noise from brakes, dealer states it's normal for this car.

General Comments:

Over 50k+ in two years, two road trips, two winters, still going strong.

It's not fast at accelerating on the road, but I don't race to stop at stop lights/signs.

Wind can push the car off the lane. A little difficulty when passing the large vehicles on the highway.

Everyone says the car is roomy. I'd like a bit more leg room for my long legs.

I could use a bit more "trunk" space.

Handles okay/good in the snow/ice/slush with studded Hakka's.

Volume of sound has to be increased at 60mph+ highway speed. Probably due to the fact that the sound proofing in the cabin isn't very good.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st January, 2009

30th Oct 2009, 10:55

On the no sound issue, what did the dealer say the problem was?

Best.

Jorge.

lapuente@mac.com