I saw 2 Le with 8 passenger, both sand one with #7 package and I think the other was #3. They were at the Toyota dealership in Leesburg, Va. That was on Friday. I do not know how far you want to drive, or if the dealers will trade. I know the sales guy was very cocky about the pricing. I just smiled when he told me that nobody was neg., not even Honda. I was not interested in purchasing 8 passenger, so I figured it was not worth my time to argue with him.
My dealer reports that Toyota still isn't manufacturing the XLE Limited with the Navigation system. Only the XLE. We're holding out for a Limited. Can anyone confirm this information?
While you are all looking for your 2004 Sienna,and a "Reasonable Deal" on one...IF you should find a 7 Passenger LE in the(lighter) "Silver Shadow Pearl with the (Gray) Stone Interior" that HAS Option BW #7 and hopefully Option CF-Carpeted Floor Mats/Door Sill Protectors.. in Illinois, the SURROUNDING STATES, or reasonable distance beyond, I would be VERY GRATEFUL to learn the Dealer and Town from you..AND would thank you PROPERLY both now and "In HEAVEN" (but not TOO soon on the latter!!!
Looking for 2004 XLE with package 6(moon roof and leather). I did dealer price quotes as Steve suggested and both came in above MSRP. One other from an internet quote was only ~ $200 off MSRP. A fourth dealer, Toyota of Roswell, told me that "everyone" (except us) is willing to put a $1000 nonrefundable deposit down.
How do we get them to the 2-3% over invoice? I am willing to travel a few hours if necessary. Anyone have any suggestions?
I live in the Pittsburgh area and was wondering what kind of deals were people getting on the 2004 Sienna LEs. I've had a couple 8% over invoice, and 5% below MSRP quotes. Anyone do better than this?
And, has anyone recent comparable quotes to what dyh55 posted in Post#1149 to bobby by dyh555 onApr 18, 2003 (4:27 pm) and at these dealerships.
>Anyway the dealership is : Bennett Toyota ,>Allentown,PA $850 above invoice >Del Toyota, Thorndale,PA: 2% above invoice >Pottstown Toyota,PA: 4% above invoice
I am having a hard time finding ANY awd models in my area. I tried looking at the on line inventory of all the dealerships listed on the toyota site (Maryland, DC, Northern VA). Do they keep the online inventory up to date? Should I call them directly? I want a red AWD LE with option pkg 12 (1 power door, dvd player)
CindyM, congrats on the new XLE ! I am glad it worked out for you. Wondries is still trying to locate the vehicle with the package and color I want. If not we are going to order as my wife is a bit picky on the color and package. How do you like the vehicle so far ?
So far dealers aren't budging in the southeast. List price and sizable dealer fees, or a couple of hundred below list, are what we have been quoted. Best quote was a $500 discount, free floor mats and towing hitch, along with as yet unspecified dealer fees. I just test-drove an MPV and am now wondering if this might be a good alternative for us. There are dealer incentives now, and the vans are being offered at about two thousand dollars below invoice. They are attractive, I like the smaller size because of easier handling, ease of parking, etc., and our family uses the third row seating mostly for cargo anyway. It has many of the same features as the Sienna (disappearing, tumble down back seat, power sliding rear windows, sliding second row, etc.), plus a few that the Sienna doesn't have such as a reclining front and mid-row seats that join together to make a temporary "lounge," for long overnight trips. Also, a rear seat that flips to face backward, useful for tailgaters and mom's with babies whose diapers need changing. Mostly, it is considerably cheaper. Consumer reports gives this van good reliability ratings, and it has 5 star government safety ratings as well. (Roll-over rating is slightly lower than Sienna's, but my understanding is this is a theoretical rating based on wheelbase/height measurements rather than real-world driving). Also, optional side air bags and traction control are amazingly cheap! Anyone care to weigh in with their opinion on whether this is a good van to consider as an alternative to overpriced Siennas?
The MPV is a very good alternative. There are actually quite a few good alternatives to the New Sienna. Even the formerly overpriced Odyssey is now being significantly discounted. Other alternatives would be the Caravan and Town & Country. (not Toyota quality but definitely cheaper).
If you must have the latest and greatest or you are very loyal to Toyota (understandable) then the Sienna is for you. Otherwise there are plenty of worthy alternatives to look at. Hopefully the Sienna will come down in price soon. In my opinion, paying MSRP is just silly.
If you wait another year, Honda will probably have a new Odyssey out which undoubtedly will leapfrog the new Sienna.
Thanks for the input. We need a car soon, and I'm not willing to pay MSRP. Sienna prices will ease down soon, I'm sure, but we aren't interested in waiting. Unlike many, I have never liked the Odyssey-- too big and boxy and the interior looks frankly cheesy. I probably should overlook the "ugly" factor, but aesthetics do play a part in most car-buyer's purchases. I prefer japanese built, and lots of versatility and function, so the Mazda MPV remains in the running. I'm wondering why there are so few of these sold compared to Sienna and Odyssey. Maybe the compact mini-van market is a very small niche?? Or is there something about the MVP I don't know yet-- like long term reliability or quality issues???
The Mazda probably sells fewer MPVs simply because there are simply fewer dealers compared to Toyota. Toyota is simply the biggest Japanese car company by far. Mazda doesn't even come close in terms of size and production. For example there are 3 Toyota Dealerships within 7 miles of my house... Zero Mazda dealerships. Nothing wrong with the MPV, esp when you consider MSRP for Sienna. If you are leaning toward the MPV, I suggest checking out the Mazda discussion area for more info.
Could MomofThree or dyh555 please send me the details (email/Phone#) of the Pennsylvania dealership and the salesperson's name from which they got the 2-3% deal over Invoice.
First, my opinion regarding 2000Mazda MPV. I drive my friend's Van several times and I am always disappointed the way "Transmission" behaves till the transmission is in 3rd Gear or approximately Upto 50 MPH speed which we drive mostly on service roads and in 'stop-and-go' traffic. Especially, in stop and go traffic, the transmission acts awkward as it struggles to go from 2nd to 3rd gear and back and forth. And on highways if we have to go Uphill, transmission struggles to climb and van seems to have less power. These are same symptoms I had on 89 caravan which were always dismissed & refused by dealers until NHTSA officially recalled it in around 1992 year. As usual, as per his dealer, everything is not just normal but also fine. My friend and I were even more disappointed when we read in a car magazine article that "since Mazda is owned by Ford, MPV has same Ford Engine and Transmission like in "CONTOUR CAR" with V6 option. I come from a big family having owned '83 Astro, and still own '89 Caravan, 95 windstar, 98 chevy Mark VII Astro convertible Van. I even have 1990 Honda Accord and 1993 Saturn SL2. Except '83 Astro all vehicles had transmission problems. On '89 caravan I replaced 'transmission' twice and I believe that Dodge has NOT fixed that problem YET. My Honda was replaced with new vehicle within 30 days and newer car's transmission has never been smooth. 1995 windstar and '98 Astro have never been smooth either but luckily transmissions have not failed yet. On '93 Saturn transmission could go any day so I change transmission fluid and filter every 10,000 miles. Many times vehicle just gets stuck at 35Mph speed. Although not a mechanic by profession, I have almost become one by choosing Domestic Mfrs. products mainly to support local auto industry. Honestly, I have never come across a single dealer who has acknowledged problems easily and fixed accordingly after taking very long to admit.Infact, in my case,they have just been very expensive, unreliable, and biggest liars at times. My '98 chevy salesperson frankly admits GM is aware of service problems but so far in 4 years situation is still getting worse and he is losing Repeat Business. This re-affirms my Opinion that American Auto Industry is soley based on "Quantity Business-Model." But Import dealerships have been definitely better based on my experience. One drawback for us consumers is that Nowadays even Import Mfrs. use 'Engines and Transmission' made in USA. Whereas, in late 80's when they started manufactueing cars in USA due to import Quota restrictions, they would only use Body frame and minor parts made in USA. I am sorry friends, Please believe me I am Not against American Auto Industry and I am Not at all "directly or indirectly" associated with Auto Industry. I am just a consumer like YOU ALL and sharing my experience so hopefully NO ONE goes through What I Have.
For those of you lucky enough to have your new Siennas, did you purchase the extended warranty? I will be picking up my Sienna in the next few days, so I'm wondering what kind of price is reasonable for the warranty, especially the platinum 7/100. Thanks for any input!
Usually you can buy the extended warranty (including the one offered by the manufacturer) anytime before the original factory warranty expires.
You may find one cheaper over the net in a few months; if nothing else, everything is negotiable, and you can use this info to get a better price out of the F&I person when you sign the other paperwork. Naturally they'd prefer to sell you one today.
If they really hard sell you on an extended warranty, ask them why - if the van is really that unreliable, maybe shopping another brand would be better. It's hard for the salespeople to answer that one :-)
The MAIN reason this Will be my FIRST Toyota is my increasingly learning/hearing about "Legendary Toyota QUALITY" SO.. even if 2004 is the year of a MAJOR Sienna Re-DO isn't an Extended Warranty STILL a waste of Money??? SO HIGH is my impressionof Toyota Quality, I'm selling my CADILLAC and will NEVER buy another!! (Between the Wife and I..BAD experiences with 4 Cadillacs) 'Nuff Said . Extended Warranty Response from OTHERS also??? PLEASE....
If Toyota is more reliable, say twice as much trouble free as a ford, then the price of extended warranty should be half of that for ford. Any thing more than that is a rip-off. Has anyone question the price for Honda vs. Toyota also? It should be interesting.
Someone want to do a correlation between reliability projections by JD Power and/or Consumer Reports and the cost of extended warranties for various cars?
Yes, I agree with you about Toyota quality, and we had said that we wouldn't purchase an extended warranty. But, with repairs being so expensive, one incident might pay for the warranty. I guess I worry a little bit about those power sliding doors I'm so looking forward to getting! I think Cliffy posted sometime back that around $1200 is a good price for the Platinum 7/100. I think that was the price he gave. I'm looking at the pros and cons right now, since I know the finance guy is going to hit me up for this when we go in. Someone on another board posted they were given a price of $862 for this same warranty, which they said was the dealer's cost. At that price, it might be worth it.
On our 1988 corolla, we bought a new muffler and that's it. Just routine maintenance. On the other hand, our 1994 T&C needed a new transmission at 60,000 miles, as well as other major and minor problems. That's why we are buying another Toyota!!!!
I found the list of Siennas by going to a Toyota web site and going under new cars and selecting Sienna. On top it says the have access to XXX number of vechiles then going through the list with different prices.
My dealer in NJ told me the 7/100 would cost 1250.00. I plan on getting it just because I'm not much of a gambler. With my luck, if I don't take it, I'll have a lot of problems.
Gives me some piece of mind (although I'm getting a Toyota in hopes that I won't have tons of problems - like I'm having with my Chrysler Voyager junk).
We're really happy with the new XLE so far!! It's very comfy and cushy, quiet, drives smoothly, has good pick-up and is just all around fun to be in (for a family vehicle!!) I will admit to reading through a number of pages in the owner's manual, though! It's got alot of "stuff" we're not used to. The neighbor's 8-year-old knew more about what buttons to push than we did the first day we had it home!!
It's quite spacious and we're looking forward to trips to the beach, mountains, etc. and being able to bring along all the "toys" we want to without being cramped!! It, of course, takes up more space in the garage which takes a little adjustment, but overall we're very happy with this choice as our family vehicle. Now we're just going to keep our fingers crossed about Toyota's reputation for reliability that we're depending on!!
I understand being picky about the color --- we weren't too crazy about the choices and had ruled out the green until we saw it in person. The green is actually very nice and that's what we went with in the end. Yes, if you're hoping to keep the vehicle 10+ years as we are, you want it in a color you like!!! Best of luck, it's worth the wait!!
There's nothing inherently wrong with Extended Warranties (for piece of mind) but it really is just another money maker for Toyota (dealers). Obviously they wouldn't sell it if it wasn't profitable. Selling a vehicle at MSRP with an extended $1250 warranty is probably a dealer's dream come true.
Actually 7 years extended warranty is a bit of a misnomer. The first 3 years are covered by Toyota. You are paying for an additional 4 years of coverage on a vehicle that is already 3 years old (depreciation).
It's interesting that Toyota and Honda's warranties are the SHORTEST in the industry. They know they don't have to include long warranties because in general their vehicles have been reliable over the years and the public knows it. (although the first few years of the Ody was rated as only AVERAGE by C.R.)
Other Minvan companies are offering 5,7 even 10 year warranties built in... increasing the price difference even more. But then again, people don't by Toyota because they are inexpensive (compared to other cars). They buy them because they are reliable.
"Note that the Toyota powertrain warranty is 5 years/60,000 miles. So the expensive stuff is covered for that period. Honda is only 3Yr/36k."
I stand corrected. The Honda has the shortest Warranty of all minivans... again it's reliability has only been average. The 99-03 Sienna was above average. (Obviously the 04 is too new) So in reality on the powertrain stuff, you are only getting 2 extra years (and 40k more miles)for a $1250 7-year extended warranty... ouch!
Of course if your Sienna has a MAJOR repair during that 2-year period, you are a "genius" for getting it.
That's My Sienna!! Sorry, but that BW 7 passenger is MINE (hehehehe). Or at least, they had better tell you it is taken. Becky, was that yours? I called right after you dropped it (or someone did) and they changed the color back to silver and it now has my name on it. Tomzak, if you can wait, they are good people there, and they will eventually be able to get one in for you. Otherwise, try Oakbrook Toyota outside Chicago -- a salesperson left a message on my machine today that he had some cars coming in that might meet my needs (I'd been calling around for the 7 pass BW). BUT, you'll pay MSRP there, unless they've changed their tune. BUT, wait time there is only about 4-6 weeks. Hmmmm.
Have any of you who are considering these things (the warranty)ever heard of self-insuring? Put the 1200 or whatever in the bank and collect interest on it. In the long run you will make money NOT the insurance company. You are buying the vehicle BECAUSE it is RELIABLE!!!
Megan, that is hilarious! Straatmann really is a great dealership. I had been in contact with them for some time and they were very up front about not being able to get the exact color I wanted in a pkg. 7, then as soon as I located a grey one they called and said they changed the silver to grey! I hated telling him I had found one already! I'm so glad it's going to a loving home, first week in May right? Mine has been delayed, I was hoping to pick it up this week, but no word as of yet. Do you also live in St. Louis? I haven't seen one on the road yet, I'll keep looking!
I live outside Peoria, so it will be a trek to pick up the car, but the dealerships here in Peoria are CLUELESS. Frankly, the salespeople come off as not even interested in selling you a car. You tell them what you want, they tell you they aren't getting any in, but they'll take your number (so they can get credit for taking your call), and that's the end of it. So, we had to search high and low. Frankly, I would've rather had the grey, but hubby wanted the (boring) silver. We have a person here in our subdivision who bought a silver Limited, so we'll actually be the second on the block not only with a 2004, but a silver 2004. Urg. Actually, it appears the other person bought the "display" model from the Peoria dealership, which is funny because we test drove it and one of the salespeople, in an effort to show off how much he knew about the car, totally trashed the plastic around the base of the second row seat trying to move it from inboard to outboard. Something tells me neighbor didn't get anything off MSRP for that..
Where did you end up going? Did you get the same $1,000 off (or more?) Not that it makes a difference to me, but I file these things away for friends who are about to be in the market :-)
I've just received a fair quote from an Ohio dealer (I live in the W.PA) for the 2004 LE Sienna and was thinking of taking the deal. Delivery is going to be in 8-10 week period. The thing is I want a LE8 seater with LE#7 option package, and from the toyota.com site, it seems to me that LE#7 option package is not being offered in Ohio. The dealer said that I can order any configuration I want. Do you think this is correct? Have any of you had a similar experience.
Since I'll need to put down a deposit for booking my Sienna, I thought I should get a consensus of the things I need to watch out for to protect myself being jerked around by a dealer. Some of the things that come to mind: -Full refund, if the vehicle ends up having those expensive "additional options". -Delivery date greater than promised range. -I'd read in another board, that if everything's kosher and the delivery is as per the agreed schedule, the dealer will have a VIN# from Toyota. If this is true, I'd like a clause that if I dont get the VIN# by X weeks (say 4-5 weeks), then I walk away. How feasible is this, and what is X here?
Just got a call from the GM of Quad City Toyota in Davenport IA, and they have a 7 passenger, BW package, Silver, which will have floor mats (may also have antitheft). Should be in within a week. It used to be mine (but they took too long to give me any info), but you are welcome to it now that I took Becky's, LOL! It looks like you are already getting hooked up, but I thought I'd let you know about it..
I don't know where you live, and I think the "big cities" are harsher than the midwest area, but here we gave a $500 deposit on our credit card, fully refundable if we decided to cancel for ANY reason (they said they don't normally do that, but since we had yet to see the car we were ordering (an LE) on any lot, they would allow us to do that). We had them write that on the front of the order, which was faxed to us before we gave them our credit card number.
If you are dealing with a large dealership in a large city (eg Chicago size), then 4-5 weeks should be okay. However, smaller dealerships are taking 8-12 weeks to get stuff in, especially if you want a specific color, style, package.
They do get the VIN, but my understanding is that only comes in a few days before actual delivery, so that may not be helpful for you.
I would just make sure that any agreement you make with them is put in writing by them. Don't let them do the "we always do it this way, and don't write it down. It's no problem". Tell them YOU always write it down, because then there are no misunderstandings later. If they mean it, they should have no problem writing it down.
If you are ordering a car from them, you should be getting what you want, not what they deem to send you. Don't settle for what they consider "close enough", and don't let them put that in any contract. Shop around for a dealer who will get you (within the bounds of the region) exactly what you want.
I like the "any reason" language too. Again, it's not like a special order where you are getting a purple van with vinyl floors that would never sell off the lot if you didn't go through with the deal.
It almost sounds like you could sell your place in line to someone else if you decide to back out, judging from the messages in here.
If you can do the deposit with a credit card, you can then try to dispute the charges with the bank too. Good luck!
I ordered on a Saturday. They gave me an approximate schedule.
Then, on the following Tuesday, they gave me an estimate of when the car would be built. I checked in with them on last Monday and they are right on schedule with what they said. The car was being built when I spoke to them.
Hopefully they will remain on schedule.
In my case, a lot of info about cancelations/refunds was printed in fine print on the back of the contract. They will add clauses if you push it.
We choose to purchase via a fleet company(Columbia Fleet). I kid you not. The annoyance is the three month wait. Toyota orders are placed once a month on the 15th....from that point, add three months. Also, you either need to own a business/fleet, or work for a company that does fleet purchasing.
I wish I could get a Sienna now for 2% above invoice or less. If I could get an 8 seater LE option #7 package within a week, I would switch our plans.
4-5 weeks wait? That would be worth it for a good price. 8-12 weeks then still paying MSRP? Are the Central Illinois dealers out of their mind or in a state of ILL?
I have ordered my XLE Limited FWD with DVD from a Dealer in NC. I have $1500 off of MSRP that also include a hitch installed. I though this is a very good due since the MSRP is $37000. The salesman is very nice to work with and he did help me to get rid of the $699 Toyo Plus protection package that seems to be the standard for all south east region. I cannot wait to see my dream Van.
Well, I guess they sell for what the market will bear, but why do you think I'm not buying from the Central IL dealers?? There are always people out there willing to take MSRP/extra options/wrong color/etc rather than do some legwork or risk having a salesperson give them the evil eye.
I didn't think the 8 passenger comes with #7. I thought you had to go to #8 (at least I think that's the number). #8 was actually my dream package -- #7, plus a nice stereo, but I didn't want the 8 passenger, so I had to settle for the yucky stereo.
Following up on Post#1229 & #1230, I heard back from the dealer in Ohio. It seems Toyota forbids him from ordering the LE#7 option package (the one that is available in PA). That was the deal breaker for me.
It was an extremely good deal too, $750 over invoice. Bummer!
Here's an update from the 2-4% deals referred to in in Post#1149 to bobby by dyh555 on Apr 18, 2003 (4:27 pm):
Bennett Toyota ,Allentown,PA $850 above invoice They're still offering it.
Del Toyota, Thorndale,PA: 2% above invoice Never heard from them. Calling the front desk, I got a sharpish receptionist, who said she cannot connect me to the internet manager.
Pottstown Toyota,PA: 4% above invoice Got an email saying that they've stopped giving the 4% deal. Its MSRP now.
I am interested to buy a Sienna Le, with the curtain air bag option. But it seems that only few LE with that option avaiable. Most of the LE has the Extra mile packet A/B cost about 700/1500. Can you please comments on the extra mile packages? are they worthy? My dealer told me that if I only want the LE with the package/option I need, I will have to wait 30-120 days. I can wait 30 days but not 120 days. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance
I am not singling out Central IL as Elmhurst Toyota won't budge. You are right..it's what the market is willing to bear. I decided to wait it out rather than get raked at MSRP...and that's coming from a former Saturn owner...rather than bear an extra profit at my expense.
Regarding the 8 seater and package 7, I just confirmed our order today. Yes, you can order le8 with #7...at least via our distribution channel.
I've just taken delivery of an XLE AWD. I didn't post before just in case there was a hitch at the dealer, such as some others seem to be experiencing. In fact I found the dealer in DeLand to be extremely pleasant to deal with. A tough negotiation, but once the deal was made there was no attempt to back pedal or add on extras ( other than a low key and very open sales pitch on extended warranty). These guys gave their word and kept it. About 5 weeks from negotiation to delivery with options exactly as desired. Van is XLE AWD with package #17 (leather/full air bags/sunshades & heated seats - though cooled seats would be better in Florida) MSRP including delivery fee is $34,885. Also added at my request a bug deflector, tow hitch and carpet mats, bringing MSRP to 35,607. Sticker also adds "Toyoguard" of $699 and "Dealer Services" of $500, both of which have some limited value. I paid $34,800, which is $800 to $2000 below MSRP depending on your valuation of the last two items. PS for info, it did not come with a moonroof, but does have a roofrack.
Comments
I do not know how far you want to drive, or if the dealers will trade. I know the sales guy was very cocky about the pricing. I just smiled when he told me that nobody was neg., not even Honda. I was not interested in purchasing 8 passenger, so I figured it was not worth my time to argue with him.
a "Reasonable Deal" on one...IF you should find a
7 Passenger LE in the(lighter) "Silver Shadow Pearl with the (Gray) Stone Interior" that HAS
Option BW #7 and hopefully Option CF-Carpeted
Floor Mats/Door Sill Protectors.. in Illinois, the
SURROUNDING STATES, or reasonable distance beyond, I would be VERY GRATEFUL to learn the Dealer and
Town from you..AND would thank you PROPERLY both
now and "In HEAVEN" (but not TOO soon on the latter!!!
Steve, Host
Good luck, Becky
How do we get them to the 2-3% over invoice? I am willing to travel a few hours if necessary. Anyone have any suggestions?
And, has anyone recent comparable quotes to what dyh55 posted in Post#1149 to bobby by dyh555 onApr 18, 2003 (4:27 pm) and at these dealerships.
>Anyway the dealership is : Bennett Toyota ,>Allentown,PA $850 above invoice
>Del Toyota, Thorndale,PA: 2% above invoice
>Pottstown Toyota,PA: 4% above invoice
Thanks...
I just test-drove an MPV and am now wondering if this might be a good alternative for us. There are dealer incentives now, and the vans are being offered at about two thousand dollars below invoice. They are attractive, I like the smaller size because of easier handling, ease of parking, etc., and our family uses the third row seating mostly for cargo anyway. It has many of the same features as the Sienna (disappearing, tumble down back seat, power sliding rear windows, sliding second row, etc.), plus a few that the Sienna doesn't have such as a reclining front and mid-row seats that join together to make a temporary "lounge," for long overnight trips. Also, a rear seat that flips to face backward, useful for tailgaters and mom's with babies whose diapers need changing. Mostly, it is considerably cheaper.
Consumer reports gives this van good reliability ratings, and it has 5 star government safety ratings as well. (Roll-over rating is slightly lower than Sienna's, but my understanding is this is a theoretical rating based on wheelbase/height measurements rather than real-world driving). Also, optional side air bags and traction control are amazingly cheap!
Anyone care to weigh in with their opinion on whether this is a good van to consider as an alternative to overpriced Siennas?
If you must have the latest and greatest or you are very loyal to Toyota (understandable) then the Sienna is for you. Otherwise there are plenty of worthy alternatives to look at. Hopefully the Sienna will come down in price soon. In my opinion, paying MSRP is just silly.
If you wait another year, Honda will probably have a new Odyssey out which undoubtedly will leapfrog the new Sienna.
Unlike many, I have never liked the Odyssey-- too big and boxy and the interior looks frankly cheesy. I probably should overlook the "ugly" factor, but aesthetics do play a part in most car-buyer's purchases. I prefer japanese built, and lots of versatility and function, so the Mazda MPV remains in the running. I'm wondering why there are so few of these sold compared to Sienna and Odyssey. Maybe the compact mini-van market is a very small niche?? Or is there something about the MVP I don't know yet-- like long term reliability or quality issues???
For example there are 3 Toyota Dealerships within 7 miles of my house... Zero Mazda dealerships.
Nothing wrong with the MPV, esp when you consider MSRP for Sienna. If you are leaning toward the MPV, I suggest checking out the Mazda discussion area for more info.
Thanks.
-sr15
And on highways if we have to go Uphill, transmission struggles to climb and van seems to have less power. These are same symptoms I had on 89 caravan which were always dismissed & refused by dealers until NHTSA officially recalled it in around 1992 year.
As usual, as per his dealer, everything is not just normal but also fine. My friend and I were even more disappointed when we read in a car magazine article that "since Mazda is owned by Ford, MPV has same Ford Engine and Transmission like in "CONTOUR CAR" with V6 option.
I come from a big family having owned '83 Astro, and still own '89 Caravan, 95 windstar, 98 chevy Mark VII Astro convertible Van. I even have 1990 Honda Accord and 1993 Saturn SL2.
Except '83 Astro all vehicles had transmission problems. On '89 caravan I replaced 'transmission' twice and I believe that Dodge has NOT fixed that problem YET. My Honda was replaced with new vehicle within 30 days and newer car's transmission has never been smooth. 1995 windstar and '98 Astro have never been smooth either but luckily transmissions have not failed yet. On '93 Saturn transmission could go any day so I change transmission fluid and filter every 10,000 miles. Many times vehicle just gets stuck at 35Mph speed.
Although not a mechanic by profession, I have almost become one by choosing Domestic Mfrs. products mainly to support local auto industry.
Honestly, I have never come across a single dealer who has acknowledged problems easily and fixed accordingly after taking very long to admit.Infact, in my case,they have just been very expensive, unreliable, and biggest liars at times.
My '98 chevy salesperson frankly admits GM is aware of service problems but so far in 4 years situation is still getting worse and he is losing Repeat Business. This re-affirms my Opinion that American Auto Industry is soley based on "Quantity Business-Model." But Import dealerships have been definitely better based on my experience. One drawback for us consumers is that Nowadays even Import Mfrs. use 'Engines and Transmission' made in USA. Whereas, in late 80's when they started manufactueing cars in USA due to import Quota restrictions, they would only use Body frame and minor parts made in USA.
I am sorry friends, Please believe me I am Not against American Auto Industry and I am Not at all "directly or indirectly" associated with Auto Industry. I am just a consumer like YOU ALL and sharing my experience so hopefully NO ONE goes through What I Have.
You may find one cheaper over the net in a few months; if nothing else, everything is negotiable, and you can use this info to get a better price out of the F&I person when you sign the other paperwork. Naturally they'd prefer to sell you one today.
If they really hard sell you on an extended warranty, ask them why - if the van is really that unreliable, maybe shopping another brand would be better. It's hard for the salespeople to answer that one :-)
Steve, Host
increasingly learning/hearing about "Legendary
Toyota QUALITY" SO.. even if 2004 is the year of a
MAJOR Sienna Re-DO isn't an Extended Warranty
STILL a waste of Money??? SO HIGH is my impressionof Toyota Quality, I'm selling my
CADILLAC and will NEVER buy another!! (Between the
Wife and I..BAD experiences with 4 Cadillacs) 'Nuff Said . Extended Warranty Response from
OTHERS also??? PLEASE....
Steve, Host
On our 1988 corolla, we bought a new muffler and that's it. Just routine maintenance. On the other hand, our 1994 T&C needed a new transmission at 60,000 miles, as well as other major and minor problems. That's why we are buying another Toyota!!!!
Thanks for your opinions on this...
I found the list of Siennas by going to a Toyota web site and going under new cars and selecting Sienna. On top it says the have access to XXX number of vechiles then going through the list with different prices.
Gives me some piece of mind (although I'm getting a Toyota in hopes that I won't have tons of problems - like I'm having with my Chrysler Voyager junk).
Bev
Tracy
It's quite spacious and we're looking forward to trips to the beach, mountains, etc. and being able to bring along all the "toys" we want to without being cramped!! It, of course, takes up more space in the garage which takes a little adjustment, but overall we're very happy with this choice as our family vehicle. Now we're just going to keep our fingers crossed about Toyota's reputation for reliability that we're depending on!!
I understand being picky about the color --- we weren't too crazy about the choices and had ruled out the green until we saw it in person. The green is actually very nice and that's what we went with in the end. Yes, if you're hoping to keep the vehicle 10+ years as we are, you want it in a color you like!!! Best of luck, it's worth the wait!!
Actually 7 years extended warranty is a bit of a misnomer. The first 3 years are covered by Toyota. You are paying for an additional 4 years of coverage on a vehicle that is already 3 years old (depreciation).
It's interesting that Toyota and Honda's warranties are the SHORTEST in the industry. They know they don't have to include long warranties because in general their vehicles have been reliable over the years and the public knows it. (although the first few years of the Ody was rated as only AVERAGE by C.R.)
Other Minvan companies are offering 5,7 even 10 year warranties built in... increasing the price difference even more. But then again, people don't by Toyota because they are inexpensive (compared to other cars). They buy them because they are reliable.
I stand corrected. The Honda has the shortest Warranty of all minivans... again it's reliability has only been average. The 99-03 Sienna was above average. (Obviously the 04 is too new)
So in reality on the powertrain stuff, you are only getting 2 extra years (and 40k more miles)for a $1250 7-year extended warranty... ouch!
Of course if your Sienna has a MAJOR repair during that 2-year period, you are a "genius" for getting it.
Peace, Becky
Where did you end up going? Did you get the same $1,000 off (or more?) Not that it makes a difference to me, but I file these things away for friends who are about to be in the market :-)
MAY be getting new Sienna TODAY! If You'd care
to give me your Phone # I"ll call with the
"Rest Of The STORY"..... TOM
The thing is I want a LE8 seater with LE#7 option package, and from the toyota.com site, it seems to me that LE#7 option package is not being offered in Ohio. The dealer said that I can order any configuration I want. Do you think this is correct? Have any of you had a similar experience.
Any info is appreciated.
-sr15
Unfortunately I feel that they do this to move what ever vehicles are on the lot.
-Full refund, if the vehicle ends up having those expensive "additional options".
-Delivery date greater than promised range.
-I'd read in another board, that if everything's kosher and the delivery is as per the agreed schedule, the dealer will have a VIN# from Toyota. If this is true, I'd like a clause that if I dont get the VIN# by X weeks (say 4-5 weeks), then I walk away. How feasible is this, and what is X here?
What else can one think of? Steve?
Thanks
-sr15
If you are dealing with a large dealership in a large city (eg Chicago size), then 4-5 weeks should be okay. However, smaller dealerships are taking 8-12 weeks to get stuff in, especially if you want a specific color, style, package.
They do get the VIN, but my understanding is that only comes in a few days before actual delivery, so that may not be helpful for you.
I would just make sure that any agreement you make with them is put in writing by them. Don't let them do the "we always do it this way, and don't write it down. It's no problem". Tell them YOU always write it down, because then there are no misunderstandings later. If they mean it, they should have no problem writing it down.
If you are ordering a car from them, you should be getting what you want, not what they deem to send you. Don't settle for what they consider "close enough", and don't let them put that in any contract. Shop around for a dealer who will get you (within the bounds of the region) exactly what you want.
It almost sounds like you could sell your place in line to someone else if you decide to back out, judging from the messages in here.
If you can do the deposit with a credit card, you can then try to dispute the charges with the bank too. Good luck!
Steve, Host
Then, on the following Tuesday, they gave me an estimate of when the car would be built. I checked in with them on last Monday and they are right on schedule with what they said. The car was being built when I spoke to them.
Hopefully they will remain on schedule.
In my case, a lot of info about cancelations/refunds was printed in fine print on the back of the contract. They will add clauses if you push it.
I wish I could get a Sienna now for 2% above invoice or less. If I could get an 8 seater LE option #7 package within a week, I would switch our plans.
4-5 weeks wait? That would be worth it for a good price. 8-12 weeks then still paying MSRP? Are the Central Illinois dealers out of their mind or in a state of ILL?
I didn't think the 8 passenger comes with #7. I thought you had to go to #8 (at least I think that's the number). #8 was actually my dream package -- #7, plus a nice stereo, but I didn't want the 8 passenger, so I had to settle for the yucky stereo.
It was an extremely good deal too, $750 over invoice. Bummer!
-sr15
Bennett Toyota ,Allentown,PA $850 above invoice
They're still offering it.
Del Toyota, Thorndale,PA: 2% above invoice
Never heard from them. Calling the front desk, I got a sharpish receptionist, who said she cannot connect me to the internet manager.
Pottstown Toyota,PA: 4% above invoice
Got an email saying that they've stopped giving the 4% deal. Its MSRP now.
-sr15
Regarding the 8 seater and package 7, I just confirmed our order today. Yes, you can order le8 with #7...at least via our distribution channel.
Van is XLE AWD with package #17 (leather/full air bags/sunshades & heated seats - though cooled seats would be better in Florida) MSRP including delivery fee is $34,885. Also added at my request a bug deflector, tow hitch and carpet mats, bringing MSRP to 35,607. Sticker also adds "Toyoguard" of $699 and "Dealer Services" of $500, both of which have some limited value. I paid $34,800, which is $800 to $2000 below MSRP depending on your valuation of the last two items.
PS for info, it did not come with a moonroof, but does have a roofrack.