2004 Kia Spectra Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.03/5 Average
112 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Kia introduces a completely redesigned and much improved Spectra as a midyear 2004 model. However, both the old and new versions are available this year.

Pros:
  • Long range warranty, redesigned version sports a spunky engine, well-finished interior and standard side-curtain airbags.
Cons:
  • Suspension a bit soft, weak performance on outgoing model, ABS optional only on most expensive models.

User Reviews:

Showing 91 through 100 of 112.00
  • Amazing Car - 2004 Kia Spectra
    By -

    I had a 2000 VW Beetle that I traded in for my brand new Kia. The VW was a piece of TRASH and this kia is, in one word, amazing. The build quality, performance, and everything else far surpassed the VW. It is near silent on the freeway, it has SIX airbags, and yes, its FAST. Dont waste your money on honda, toyota, or vw, Kia is by far the best way to go. Plus its guaranteed for 10 years, who else can do that?

  • Great Car - 2004 Kia Spectra
    By -

    This is just an all around great car. From the 2.0 liter DOHC engine. To the sleak interior design.

  • Spectra Rating - 2004 Kia Spectra
    By -

    Transmission Questioable- Problems required the Transmission be replaced twice in one month after the original failed.

  • NEVER AGAIN! - 2004 Kia Spectra
    By -

    I don’t know how or where to start. This car has been giving me problems from the start. The engine light goes on and off. The transmission has been replaced 3 times, the computer once, the alternator 1 time; the struts have been replaced twice. OMG! It has been my worse nightmare. I have missed so many days of work because of this. I wanted to sell it, but of course Kia does not hold their value. After I paid over 15,000 for this car, I only get $2,000 after 5 years with only 55,000 miles on it. I swear I would rather walk to work everyday before I buy another Kia. PLEASE do some research before you buy a Kia... They might be affordable, but you will pay so much at the end.

  • Great so far - 2004 Kia Spectra
    By -

    I bought this car used to replace my 12 year old Altima. Its much smaller outside, but just as comfy and more rear seat legroom (Im 511"). Feels solid, peppy on take off, VERY respectable trunk size for its class, and cheap to buy. Gas mileage started out low (25.5 in mixed driving), but has steadily improved with warmer weather (31.6 in mixed driving). Not up to par with the Corolla for gas mileage, but rivals it everywhere else. Very happy with my purchase. Safety features were a sell along with price. Also, the outside styling is very nice.

  • good family starter - 2004 Kia Spectra
    By -

    looks good ,runs great

  • Cannot Align? - 2004 Kia Spectra
    By -

    When I got the car it needed an alignment, should have made them fix it then. We loved the car. We paid cash for it. Well.........I took it to get new tires and an alignment in Oct. of 07 and the alignment tech told there is no camber adjustment on the KIA so he could not align the car. WHAT? He then proceeded to tell me I had to buy an aftermarket kit and it would cost $200 to install so my car could be aligned. I thought they were just fishing for money. So I called the dealer and sure enough I had to buy an aftermarket kit. WHAT?I bought a car you cant get aligned! KIA said it adjusts, the dealer and the tech says no. Now I am stuck with a car I can never get aligned. Never buy another!

  • Great Car - 2004 Kia Spectra
    By -

    So far this has been a great car! The redesigned Kia Spectra is built solid, and the new motor is much better then the old 1.8. Its quiet, and gets great gas mileage. The inside is quite roomy front and back. Adults actually can be comfortable in the back!

  • I Didnt Like It - 2004 Kia Spectra
    By -

    this car had little seats and was not the car i thought it was when i bought it. I thought it was a pretty color and thats about all. It was, in all, reliable, but it did not give me the feeling of safty when i drove it on the high way.

  • love my kia - 2004 Kia Spectra
    By -

    my new kia handles very well , corners highway ect.its good on gas although all cars could improve on that!the warranty is excellent.it is comfortable and the design is kind of sporty.the ride is very smooth. i havent had it long enough to know of any future problems,i feel very safe in my kia spectra. i will say it is a nicely designed car.im very happy with it. anyone who sais kias are no good , they are wrong!!

Kia Spectra Reviews By Year:
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