Scion Tc problems
Social links
Scion Tc model years
Common Scion Tc problems
The Scion tC, a compact sports car produced by Toyota's Scion brand, has been praised for its affordability, sporty aesthetics, and impressive features. However, like any vehicle, it has faced its fair share of issues throughout its production years. Here are some of the most common problems reported by Scion tC owners:
- Clutch Failure: The Scion tC's clutch has been known to fail prematurely, especially in manual transmission models. This issue can lead to expensive repairs and replacement costs.
- Water Pump Seal Failure: The water pump seal in the Scion tC can fail, causing coolant leaks and potential engine overheating. This issue is more common in earlier model years.
- Excessive Oil Consumption: Some Scion tC owners have reported excessive oil consumption, particularly in the 2007 model year. This issue can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Head Gasket Failure: A manufacturing defect can cause the head gasket to fail, leading to overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and rough engine performance. This issue is more common in earlier model years.
- Sunroof Wind Deflector Breakage: Some Scion tC models, particularly the 2005 model year, have experienced breakage of the sunroof wind deflector. This issue resulted in a recall to install a plastic film to reinforce the deflector.
- Excessive Oil Consumption (2006 Model): The 2006 Scion tC has been reported to consume excessive oil between oil changes, with some owners needing to add a quart every 1,000 to 1,500 miles. This issue is reportedly due to engine problems and has concerned many owners due to the risk of engine damage from low oil levels.
- Power Window Failure (2007 Model): The 2007 Scion tC has experienced a high number of complaints regarding power window failure, with reports of windows failing to roll up or down.
- Rough Shifting (2007 Model): The 2007 Scion tC, particularly models with automatic transmissions, has been reported to have rough shifting issues.
- Catalytic Converter Failure (2nd Generation): Some second-generation Scion tC models (2011-2016) have experienced catalytic converter failure between 100,000 and 150,000 miles.
- TPMS Sensor Failure: The TPMS sensor in some Scion tC models can malfunction over time, causing the TPMS light to illuminate on the dashboard.
While the Scion tC has faced several common problems, it is important to note that the vehicle has also been praised for its reliability, affordability, and sporty aesthetics. Proper maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help ensure a longer lifespan for the Scion tC.
Is the Scion tC a reliable car?
Despite the Scion tC's high depreciation rate, it has gotten high scores for its reliability. RepairPal gave the tC an above-average score of 4 out of 5. There were only a few instances where the vehicle encountered catastrophic issues throughout its eleven years of production.
What is the life expectancy of a Scion tC?
I literally feel this car has at least another 200,000 miles that can be put on it before any bigger problems would arise. This think is a tank of a vehicle and if well maintained will literally keep going and going for you!
Does a Scion tC have a Toyota engine?
It received a performance bump; with the new engine being carried over from the Toyota Camry being a 2.5 liter I4 2AR-FE engine producing 180 hp (130 kW) and 174 lb⋅ft (236 N⋅m).
Are Scion engines reliable?
While the Scion brand may no longer be in production, it was a subsidiary of Toyota, a brand known for producing durable and reliable vehicles. This reliability has transferred well to the Scion xB, which boasts a generally solid track record of performance and minimal major issues.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Scion Tc years
We have researched Scion problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Scion Tc cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Scion Tc model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Scion Tc model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Scion Tc years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Scion Tc car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Scion Tc , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Visibility problems
- Structure problems
- Engine problems
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Scion Tc vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Tc model years
A total of 123 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Tc model years
There were a total of 16 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Tc model years
There were a total of 128 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Tc model years
There were a total of 18 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 680 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Scion Tc . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Scion Tc vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Scion Tc 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-22
- VIN: JTKDE167390
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My scion TC is using an extreme amount of oil to where I am putting 2-3 quarts in the motor per week. The extreme usage of oil can cause the engine to blow up due to lack of oil staying in the engine. My oil light will flash after couple days indicating low oil. A dangerous situation that can happen is the engine stop working while I'm driving on an interstate and possibly cause a serious accident or even an engine fire. There was a Toyota bulletin on this issue back in 2015. My car was bought in 2013. According to Toyota, they claimed they had sent notice to the address listed under this VIN. We received no such notice and even requested Toyota prove they sent it, but they would not. When I asked them about this case in regard to this issue, they have mentioned Toyota would no longer deal with this because it was past the deadline. How can I be denied for a service bulletin if I never received the notice.
Scion Tc 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-06
- VIN: JTKDE167550
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine burning oil
Scion Tc 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-16
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-31
- VIN: JTKJF5C71F3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Whining noise is heard when the clutch petal is released. Noise is coming from the input shaft bearing. Common failure on this model. Mechanic confirmed that is the issue. If the bearing completely fails could leave the car stranded and cause more damage to other transmission components. No warning lights but noise is very loud.
Scion Tc 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-23
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-23
- VIN: JTKJF5C77GJ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: While driving on the interstate, all of a sudden, I hear a loud bang. This sound sounded like a tire blew or a gun shot. Then I see glass rolling down the back windshield. After inspecting, it was the sunroof/moonroof that exploded outwords as if there was some pressure from the heat built up.My brother was in the backseat, luckily the windshield was closed. He could have gotten seriously hurt from the glass debris falling onto him or into his eyes.After researching, this is a common situation for this model car, being the number 1 car reported for similar incidents.
Scion Tc 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-19
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-21
- VIN: JTKJF5C7XB3
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Why did the dealer tell me this recall is not associated with my vin when I keep getting recall UNADDREESSED notices for my vehicle? This is a safety reason and a complete disconnect between dealerships and Toyota manufacture. I need this addressed immediately!
Scion Tc 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-13
- VIN: JTKJF5C78E3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS THE HOUSING AROUND THE AIR CONDITIONER FILLS WITH WATER FROM CONDENSATION, THE DRAINAGE TUBE IS NARROW AND CLOGS, WHICH CAUSES THE WATER TO DRIP OUT OF THE HOUSING AND INTO THE PASSENGER SIDE INTERIOR WHERE IT SWAMPS THE CARPETING FROM FRONT TO BACK. I KNOW AC NORMALLY DOES NOT QUALIFY AS A SAFETY CONCERN BUT TO MY UNDERSTANDING THERE IS ELECTRIC WIRING THAT RUNS UNDER THE CARPET THAT IS CERTAINLY NOT DESIGNED TO BE UNDER AN INCH OF WATER AND THEN THERE IS THE POTENTIAL FOR HARMFUL MOLD TO DEVELOP FROM THE WET CARPET. THE DEALER WILL CHARGE TO CLEAR THE CLOG BUT THEY HAVE SINCE TOLD ME THERE IS A PERMANENT FIX (AN AC CASING WITH BETTER DRAINAGE) WHICH COSTS MORE THAN $2000 TO INSTALL. A SIMPLE SEARCH ON THE INTERNET SHOWS TOYOTA HAS BEEN IGNORING THIS DESIGN FLAW AND THIS PROBLEM SINCE THE MODEL REDESIGN IN 2011. THEY HAD PLENTY OF TIME TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE WHICH CAN EFFECT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF THE OCCUPANTS. I KNOW A NARROW TUBE DRAIN LINE SEEMS LIKE A MINOR THING BUT THIS DOES NOT SEEM TO HAPPEN IN MOST CARS. WHILE IT HAS BEEN A CONCERN FOR SCION TC OWNERS SINCE 2011. I DRIVE A 2014. THERE WAS PLENTY OF TIME FOR TOYOTA TO OFFER A BETTER CASING OR A SOLUTION TO THIS PROBLEM OVER THE YEARS. I HAVE REACHED OUT TO TOYOTA AND THEY REFUSE TO DO ANYTHING SINCE MY CAR IS NOW OUT OF WARRANTY DESPITE THAT MY CAR WAS IN FOR THIS TEMPORARY REPAIR SEVERAL TIMES WHILE IT WAS UNDER WARRANTY AND THEY NEVER OFFERED THE PERMANENT FIX UNTIL NOW.
Scion Tc 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-11
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-13
- VIN: JTKDE167890
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Scion TC. The contact stated while driving approximately 50 MPH, he slowed for a traffic light and the vehicle failed to shift out of third gear. The accelerator pedal was depressed and the vehicle revved without moving. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle occasionally slipped out of gear and failed to exceed 15 MPH while driving. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer who diagnosed that the transmission was locked in overdrive and that the transmission needed to be repaired or replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Scion Tc 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-22
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-15
- VIN: JTKJF5C70GJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I have a recall on my brakes. I took it to toyota in newnan ga. they said it would be a few hours and I asked for a rental because it was my only day off and I have 3 kids and errands to run. They then proceded to tell me I dont have a recall. They lied to get out of letting me use a rental or another car. My brakes go bad alot its so unusual. I hope Toyota insures my safety with their lack of care and effort.
Scion Tc 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-13
- VIN: JTKJF5C78F3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Over the past 4-5 years, 2015 scion tc has had numerous electrical issues. Both driver and passenger electric door locks do not work. Head and tail lamp lights burn out frequently. Seems like a grounding issue? Car failed to start August 2021 due to electrical problems. 3rd party mechanic fixed the issue. Toyota Dealer-installed automatic start fails multiple times before starting car. Basic electrical mechanisms for a car made in 2015 should not be broken/failing. 2019 Air Conditioner wouldn't drain. Had to investigate and personally drain the tubes behind the passenger and driver side-pannels behind center counsel. The entire draining system for the cars air conditioner had clogged. 2015 Exterior Vinyl Pillars on sides of windshield started to fade. Brought it to Westbury Toyota and they said the sun caused it. I didn't even have the car for 6 months yet....
Scion Tc 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-04
- VIN: JTKDE3B79A0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My car is burning oil, like a quart per week I always maintain the oil level, not leaks I just want to know if Toyota can help me, I am a third owner of this car has 94000 miles
Scion Tc 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-25
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-26
- VIN: JTKDE3B75A0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Warranty Enhancement Program – ZE7 OIL Leak Certain 2007-2010 Scion tC Extension of Warranty Coverage for 2AZ Engine Oil Consumption Toyota is now announcing the part replacement phase of Warranty Enhancement Program ZE7 for vehicles exhibiting excessive engine oil consumption. Eligibility for part replacement under this Warranty Enhancement Program is dependent on a Toyota dealer performed engine oil consumption test in accordance with T-SB-0158-14(Toyota) and S-SB-0031-14 (Scion). My daughter was never notified of this issue and they will not honor this and they told me it would have to be reopened in order for them to fix it at no cost to my daughter. Toyota needs to reopen this and fix my daughters car. The two letters that went out went to the original owner and I was told they used the DMV database which clearly had they it would have shown the date of purchase and the letter would have made it to my daughter. How many others did not get their car fixed are there more on the road with this issue?
Scion Tc 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-06
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JTKDE167150
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 1. I believe my airbags deployed pre-maturely with a soft impact to another vehicle. There was no damage to the other vehicle and no police report needed to be filed. There is a minor damage to my front bumper. 2. The airbags inflated on me, but no medical attention was required. 3. I have not confirmed or reproduced this problem with a professional. 4. My car has not been inspected nor reported to my insurance agency as my coverage only covers liability. 5. No symptoms prior to airbags deploying pre-maturely *Because of the pre-mature deployment of my airbags I am unable to afford the airbags to be reset, as doing so would cost more than the kbb estimated value of my car.
Scion Tc 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-02
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-15
- VIN: JTKDE167390
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2009 Scion tC consumes to much engine oil due to bad pistons installed by manufacture and needs to be repaired before major engine problems occur. I also found out I’m not the only one having this issue. I’ve just purchased the vehicle.8
Scion Tc 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-26
- VIN: JTKDE3B71A0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I took my car to Toyota on August 7th 2021 and was informed my car needed a new engine due to losing three quarts of oil. The employee then informed me my car was under recall but they would be unable to fix the problem because the recall had expired. I never received a letter in the mail instructing me to take my car in for repairs due to this recall.
Scion Tc 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-24
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-25
- VIN: JTKDE3B75A0
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Warranty Enhancement Program –Part Replacement for Excessive Oil Consumption (NEVER INFORMED OF THIS ISSUE) I just found out that this expired on 3/27/2020 but Toyota mentioned this was created by your department. and within this letter we never received they are not willing to fix my car since it just started happening to my car. I took it to the Toyota dealership because I kept getting my oil changed at VA tire and Auto and after 2000 miles 4 quarts of oil is gone. They told me to take it to Toyota so I did and the service manger gave me a copy of the letter that was never sent to me in November 2015. I spoke to Carlos at the Toyota HQ in Texas and he said that they used the DMV website to find the second owner which is me and on my Vehicle Registration Card from DMV the Purchase date is 8/6/2015 and the car fax shows DMV reported me on 8/26/2015 new owner living in Winchester VA. Carlos explained to me that the letter was sent in May and November 2015 to Manassas VA which means it was sent twice to the 1st buyer of the car. I am thinking if this is happening to me there maybe others who were never informed of this situation. I was told by Carlos your department is the only one who can reopen this claim because I was never listed as the owner of the car that I bought 8/6/2015 and still own. I am hoping that you can help me get this claim reopen and because from the ways things look Toyota did not follow the rules of informing the correct owners of the vehicles on this Support Program they called it. Toyota said that your department did not feel it to be a recall. I would appreciate some assistance in this matter. I have all the documents proving I was the second owner. I contacted Susan Hogan for assistance because Toyota HQ said they are not responsible. My files are too big to upload I would need to email the PDF files to show you proof.
Latest 5 recalls Scion Tc
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 30 recalls for different components of the Scion Tc.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Scion Tc 2011
- Report Received Date: 2018-09-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain Toyota Racing Development (TRD) brake kits, part numbers PTR09-21111 and PTR09-52080, sold by Toyota as an optional accessory for model year 2008-2015 Scion xB, and 2011-2016 Scion tC vehicles. Over time, the brake hoses in these kits may fatigue and fail.
- Consequence: Failure of a brake hose will reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify all known owners of the Scion xB and Scion tC vehicles upon which an involved optional TRD Brake Kit could have been installed. If the vehicle is equipped with one of the TRD brake kits, it will be replaced with a standard equipment brake kit, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0U.
- Model: Scion Tc 2016
- Report Received Date: 2018-09-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain Toyota Racing Development (TRD) brake kits, part numbers PTR09-21111 and PTR09-52080, sold by Toyota as an optional accessory for model year 2008-2015 Scion xB, and 2011-2016 Scion tC vehicles. Over time, the brake hoses in these kits may fatigue and fail.
- Consequence: Failure of a brake hose will reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify all known owners of the Scion xB and Scion tC vehicles upon which an involved optional TRD Brake Kit could have been installed. If the vehicle is equipped with one of the TRD brake kits, it will be replaced with a standard equipment brake kit, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0U.
- Model: Scion Tc 2013
- Report Received Date: 2018-09-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain Toyota Racing Development (TRD) brake kits, part numbers PTR09-21111 and PTR09-52080, sold by Toyota as an optional accessory for model year 2008-2015 Scion xB, and 2011-2016 Scion tC vehicles. Over time, the brake hoses in these kits may fatigue and fail.
- Consequence: Failure of a brake hose will reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify all known owners of the Scion xB and Scion tC vehicles upon which an involved optional TRD Brake Kit could have been installed. If the vehicle is equipped with one of the TRD brake kits, it will be replaced with a standard equipment brake kit, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0U.
- Model: Scion Tc 2014
- Report Received Date: 2018-09-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain Toyota Racing Development (TRD) brake kits, part numbers PTR09-21111 and PTR09-52080, sold by Toyota as an optional accessory for model year 2008-2015 Scion xB, and 2011-2016 Scion tC vehicles. Over time, the brake hoses in these kits may fatigue and fail.
- Consequence: Failure of a brake hose will reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify all known owners of the Scion xB and Scion tC vehicles upon which an involved optional TRD Brake Kit could have been installed. If the vehicle is equipped with one of the TRD brake kits, it will be replaced with a standard equipment brake kit, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0U.
- Model: Scion Tc 2012
- Report Received Date: 2018-09-20
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain Toyota Racing Development (TRD) brake kits, part numbers PTR09-21111 and PTR09-52080, sold by Toyota as an optional accessory for model year 2008-2015 Scion xB, and 2011-2016 Scion tC vehicles. Over time, the brake hoses in these kits may fatigue and fail.
- Consequence: Failure of a brake hose will reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify all known owners of the Scion xB and Scion tC vehicles upon which an involved optional TRD Brake Kit could have been installed. If the vehicle is equipped with one of the TRD brake kits, it will be replaced with a standard equipment brake kit, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0U.
Latest negative Scion Tc car reviews
Latest positive Scion Tc car reviews
-
Vehicle year: 2010
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my black 2006 car. It's been such a reliable vehicle for me, even after all these years. With over 115,000 miles on it, I've only had to do a few basic maintenance tasks like oil changes, transmission fluid, new brakes, and tires. And the best part? It still runs like it's brand new! I truly believe that you won't find another car under 18 grand that has all the amazing features that this one does. The 5-speed shifter is so smooth, even after all these miles. And the low and mid-range torque is impressive - I can easily merge onto the highway without any issues. While the huge glass sunroof does make it a bit top-heavy, the car still handles corners really well. It's got plenty of power, too. Of course, if you're looking for even more power, you'll have to pay a bit more than 18 grand. But overall, I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a reliable and feature-packed vehicle!
-
Vehicle year: 2006
I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your car! It's great to know that after 6 years and 118k miles, you've only had to deal with normal wear and tear. While there are a few areas that could be improved, such as the noise level and ride comfort, it's clear that your love for this car shines through. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us!
-
Vehicle year: 2008
I love my car! It has been nothing but routine maintenance for my Tc, and I have had no problems whatsoever after 2 1/2 years of ownership. I am thinking of buying a new battery for her. The only thing that Scion forgot to put on these cars was a rear window wiper/sprayer assembly. Other than that, everything has been great. I wouldn't mind having a 6th gear on this manual transmission. And Scion, please put a short throw shifter in during assembly, with a shorter height to shift lever also. There's no need for a truck-like shifter in a sporty car like the Tc. That's why I lowered mine. This is a great car and I will definitely buy it again when the time comes!
-
Vehicle year: 2005
I purchased my Tc used with only 23k miles. It's quite rare to find a 2005 vehicle with such low mileage for a three-year-old car. The car is very sporty and has an excellent turn radius. I love the Pioneer system in it; I just put it on 'feel,' and it's good to go. The handling is very good, and it handles curves very well around corners, even at speeds of 80mph. I'm not sure about the mpg yet since I'm still calculating, but it's way better than my old truck. I bought this car as an alternative to a Mustang since my mother said I couldn't have one, considering I'm still 17. But I love this car, and what's even more awesome is that it has the same name as my dad - his name is TC too. Lol!
-
Vehicle year: 2006
I bought my 06 tC in May 2006 with only 53 miles on it. Now, it has over 210,000 miles and I'm happy to report that I haven't had any major issues with it. It's impressive that I'm still using the original car battery. I only had to add some distilled water to it after 6 years, which was no big feat. I installed a short RAM intake and Borla axle back exhaust, which increased my MPG to about 31-33 on the highway. Since most of my driving is on the highway, my daily commute of 60 miles each way and frequent trips from San Diego to Sacramento (roughly 550 miles each way) are a breeze. The tC is comfortable enough for me to drive the whole way with no problems, and I'm 5'10
Eliezer Satterfield 2025-08-21
Vehicle year: 2009
I bought my tC brand new in 2009 and loved it for a while. I really like the look of my car and it's great on gas. However, I have had some issues with it. I find it difficult to control in windy conditions and driving in the snow is a challenge. The stock tires wore out quickly and the air conditioner is not very effective. Additionally, the car is quite small and can be cramped for anyone over 6 feet tall. It has also required frequent trips to the repair shop. Despite these issues, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it held up in a car accident. While the other car was totalled, mine only needed a dent repair. If you're considering a Scion, I would advise you to weigh your options carefully before making a decision.
Matteo Kautzer 2025-08-12
Vehicle year: 2005
The car has great acceleration, responsive suspension and steering, and actually gets higher gas mileage than expected (around 25-27mpg). If you're comparing it to a 250hp suped up sports car, it's not going to satisfy you, but if you want a car that can move well, get you from point A to point B, and has a very attractive exterior, this is a great buy.
Imani Satterfield 2025-08-07
Vehicle year: 2006
The car has had some issues with plastic pieces in the interior and the exterior rear lift/license plate cover snapping or cracking. However, the seats are very comfortable, even in the back, and the ergonomics, instrumentation, and electronics are great for a 2006 model. The audio quality is also quite good. The noise level is mostly tire-related, with the original and Goodyear tires being terrible, but the Michelin Pilots are great. In town mileage is not the best, averaging around 17 at best, but on long trips, it can get up to 30. Unfortunately, the mechanical quality has been poor, with multiple replacements needed, including brakes and rotors twice, tires three times, clutch, and now a new transmission (bearings and shifter linkage) at only 79K. Despite the positive experiences of others, I would not purchase another Scion or Toyota, as I have had better experiences with Nissan and Honda in the past and will be returning to those brands.
Finn Gleason 2025-07-22
Vehicle year: 2007
I used to drive 90 miles round trip for work and got 32 mpg. Now that I do more city driving, I get about 25 mpg. Despite having 92K on the odometer, the car still has lots of power and a quiet engine. It's a great car on smooth roads, but can be a bit choppy on bumpy ones. There's plenty of leg room, even in the back seat, but head room is a bit tight in the back. It's really fun to drive and the sound system is great. Overall, it's a good car for the price.
Dewayne Mitchell 2025-07-18
Vehicle year: 2005
Our 05 Toyota Scion TC's rear handle hatch molding broke off a few years ago, shortly after the hydraulic shocks went out that hold the hatch (after 3 years/20,000 miles). The dealer suggested we buy aftermarket parts, which we did, but unfortunately, they aren't hydraulic, so the hatch needs more strength to open and lift. As a result, the trunk handle broke off, and the trunk release just hangs there. We've been taping it over and over with packing tape, but now we have all these layers of tape. We've noticed a lot of taped Scion tcs and xbs on the road! We'd like to sell the car, but it would cost over $1500 to make it right. Although Scion won't take responsibility for the design and plastic parts, we've spoken to them on the phone many times, and they've been unable to help us. We found a Facebook page with helpful information and a class action suit. [HTML removed]