We test drove a 2006. I looked at the middle in the back and the passenger side. I guess I missed the passenger side.
So, is there any major differences between siennas from 2004 and 2006?
Are there any known problems with the sienna?
Should we be patient and save our money for a 2006, or is a 2004 just as good?
2006 is the model year when front side torso airbags and side curtain airbags for all 3 rows became standard on all versions of the Sienna. Prior to that, side curtain airbags were optional on the 7 and 8-passenger LE models, not available at all on the CE models, and either optional or standard on the spendier 7-passenger XLE and XLE Limited models. If you want a Sienna equipped with side airbags, it may be harder to find a 2004 8-passenger LE model equipped with the optional side curtain airbags. If you do find one, I'd say go for it if the price, condition and mileage are right. :twocents: 2006 and newer Siennas also have a slightly more powerful engine with more horsepower compared to the '04-'05 models. I believe the fuel economy rating is about the same even with the more powerful engine. Other differences are purely cosmetic, IRRC, such as slight changes in the front grille and taillights, and silver dashboard trim instead of black trim in the LE models.
Our 2005 8-passenger model had a recall that affected the second row center seatbelt. I don't remember the exact details and it was a quick fix at the dealerhship while I had ours in for an oil change. I'm not aware of other known problems, but then again I don't hang out much any more on the
Siennaclub.org Forums - I used to lurk there when we were minivan shopping, and you can find tons of useful info. there.
ETA: 2004 and newer Siennas are factory equipped with a roof rack. I don't recall the weight rating for the roof rack, but I'm betting you can find that info. over on the Sienna club forum.