2004 Toyota Corolla Review: One of the Best Deals on the Market Today, if You Can Fit in the Driver Seat
The Good
The 2004 Toyota Corolla excels in reliability and fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers. Its comfortable ride and simple design offer a sense of ease and dependability. While not a performance car, it provides adequate power for daily driving, and its strong resale value offers peace of mind. It's a sensible and trustworthy choice.
The Bad
The 2004 Toyota Corolla's weaknesses include its uninspired interior and relatively basic features, even in higher trims. Some owners have reported issues with oil consumption, especially in later years. Rust can be a concern in regions with harsh winters. Also, the automatic transmission can sometimes exhibit shift issues as it ages. Regular maintenance is key.
2004 Toyota Corolla: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 1.8L Inline-4 (1ZZ-FE)
- Horsepower: 130 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- Manual: 29 mpg city / 37 mpg highway
- Automatic: 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 9.1 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not Recommended
- Trim Level Features:
- CE: Base model; included standard features like air conditioning, power steering, and a basic audio system.
- S: Sportier trim; added features such as a rear spoiler, sport seats, and a different gauge cluster. May also include fog lights.
- LE: Luxury Edition; offered enhanced comfort features like power windows and door locks, upgraded upholstery, and possibly cruise control.
- Other Notable Features:
- Front-wheel drive
- Available with 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission
- MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension
- Standard safety features included front airbags
2004 Toyota Corolla Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Corolla |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | TOYOTA CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1ZZ-FE |
| Engine Size | 1.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Toyota Corolla Have?
Recalls for the 2004 Corolla have included issues related to airbags, specifically the Takata airbag inflators, which could rupture and send shrapnel into the cabin. Owners should check the NHTSA website to ensure their vehicle has had all necessary recall repairs completed. Long-term reliability is generally good, but these specific issues should be addressed to maximize the vehicle's lifespan. Some owners have also reported issues with the mass airflow sensor, which can cause poor engine performance.
How long will the 2004 Toyota Corolla last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included front airbags as standard equipment. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available as an option. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was not available on the 2004 Corolla. Crash test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) show that the 2004 Corolla received good ratings in frontal offset crash tests. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave it a 4-star rating for driver and passenger in frontal crash tests, and 5-star ratings for side impact protection.
Optional features depended on the trim level. LE models often included power windows, power door locks, and cruise control. The S trim added sporty aesthetic features but didn't significantly upgrade the tech offerings. In summary, the 2004 Corolla focused on basic safety and functionality rather than advanced technology, prioritizing reliability and affordability over cutting-edge features.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2004 Toyota Corolla Prices and Market Value
2004 Toyota Corolla Cost of Ownership
2004 Toyota Corolla Fuel Efficiency
2004 Toyota Corolla Safety Rating
NHTSA
2004 Toyota Corolla Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Toyota Corolla Compare to Other Sedan?
The Corolla's features are generally basic but functional, prioritizing simplicity over luxury. Performance-wise, the Corolla is adequate for daily driving but not particularly exciting. Pricing is competitive within its class, especially on the used market.
Alternatives to the 2004 Corolla include the Honda Civic, which offers similar reliability and fuel efficiency, and the Mazda3 for buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience. For those needing more space, the Nissan Sentra is a viable option. If cargo space is a priority, considering a hatchback or wagon version of the Ford Focus might be beneficial. Ultimately, the Corolla's strengths lie in its reliability and low running costs, making it a practical choice, but buyers should consider their priorities and test drive competitors before making a decision.
Ranks #157 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 157 | 2004 Toyota Corolla | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Toyota Corolla a Good Sedan?
Keiv on August 28, 2023
600,000 miles and still no problemsIt is 2023, and I've been driving this car for 19 years with no problems. It has well over 600,000 miles on it, but I wouldn't know because the odometer maxed out at 299,999 back in 2013.
John mitchell on March 30, 2022
This car my all time longevity since 2004Toyota,been driving them since 1987the car was always depentable.i would continue with only toyotas.the vehicle never broke down on me.the car was well worth its cost
Corolla is a great car on February 24, 2021
Best car I have ever owned.I have owned several new cars. My family bought it new, then my son bought a new BMW. He liked his 2004 corolla so much and gave it to me. It had 60,000 miles and now 167,000 miles. It is trouble free and great gas economy. Best was 47mpg back from Vermont to Long Island at 50 mph not cruise control because of fog. I will consider selling when it has 250,000 miles but not before that.
Francisco colon on December 17, 2020
Great car drives amazing considering the yearThis car drove amazing i can't believe how great it drove considering the year of the vehicle. Who ever owned it before took care of it.
Amy S on June 21, 2020
Great carThis car was a tank in winter and gave me great gas mileage, I drove it 400,169 miles and loved it! I am currently in the process of buying my next car from them.
Aye on April 5, 2020
Good carIf you want something that is low maintenance and starts every time, this is the kind of car you want. My car has never left me stranded anywhere and it barely costs me anything in maintenance costs. Plus the gas mileage is great too
Jojo on March 14, 2020
Very reliable carCar rides nice, reliable and looks nice. Low mileage, well. Very well taken care of considering the year of the car. Looks good on the outside too.
sir h on January 4, 2020
Best auto I've ever owned!!I maintain it by doing what needs to be done and will have it until it no longer operates!! Have also kept up with recalls and the usual tire, battery, windshield wiper, etc., changes too!
Lookingaround on October 27, 2019
Most reliable car I’ve ownedGreat car and made many successful long distance journeys over the years. It made me a Toyota lover for life and the only reason the car is out of my possession is because someone totaled it out. It kept me safe and unharmed though so I would definitely recommend!
Corolla on July 11, 2019
Best car for a familyBest car for family usage , I brought the used car Corolla 1.8 E 2004 SIlver which was driven 100800 kms driven car but has a user we will not feel the difference while driving once again Brand Toyota Stand for its best , I loved it Go for it .
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.