2003 Scion Xb problems

General information about Scion-Xb
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Scion xB is a compact car (subcompact car in its first generation) made by Scion, a now-defunct fully owned division of Toyota, for the United States market. It is a box-shaped, 5-door hatchback.

First generation (XP30; 2003)

The first-generation xB was a lightly modified and rebadged version of the Japanese-market subcompact Toyota bB. It was a small hatchback based on the Toyota Echo/Yaris platform. The xB was one of two models in the lineup of Toyota's US-exclusive Scion division present at the brand's 2003 launch, the other being the xA, based on the Toyota ist. The car proved to be unexpectedly popular with senior drivers.

First-generation xB vs. first-generation bB

Only the first-generation models for both the xB and bB are related. Second-generation models are based upon different platforms.

To create the first-generation xB, the bB was modified from right- to left-hand drive, the front passenger area was also changed significantly with the bB's front bench seat replaced with bucket seats and the column-mounted shifter changed to a floor-mounted shifter.

The available drivetrains also differed. The bB was available with either the 1.3 L I4 2NZ-FE engine or the 1.5 L 1NZ-FE, mated exclusively to a 4-speed automatic transmission with available all wheel drive. The xB was only available with the 1NZ-FE that produced 108 hp (81 kW) and 105 lb⋅ft (142 N⋅m) in US spec, but offered both a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission. All-wheel drive was not offered on the xB.

The Toyota bB was equipped with a compact spare tire under the floor of the luggage area. On the Scion xB, a compact spare tire was stored under the left side of a raised rear cargo floor. Since the spare tire raised the cargo floor by several inches, a storage bin was added to the right of the spare tire to reclaim some of the lost storage space. A jack was stored under the driver's seat of the xB.

The Toyota bB had a pull-out storage tray under the passenger seat that the xB lacks.

The bB went on sale in February 2000, whereas the xB went on sale in June 2003 for the 2004 model year. Sales of the first-generation bB ended in December 2005, whereas the first-generation xB ended sales in June 2007.

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Common 2003 Scion Xb problems

Based on the information provided in the search results, here are some common problems with the Scion xB 2003 based on complaints from owners:

Oil Consumption:
- One of the common issues reported is excessive oil consumption, which can lead to the need for frequent oil top-ups and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly .
VVT Solenoid:
- Another problem highlighted is related to the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid, which can cause engine performance issues if not functioning correctly .
AC Not Cold Enough:
- Owners have complained about the air conditioning system not cooling effectively, which can be uncomfortable, especially in hot weather conditions .
Squealing Noise From Brakes in Reverse:
- Some owners have experienced a squealing noise coming from the brakes when reversing, indicating potential brake system issues that may require attention .
White Smoke from Tailpipe:
- White smoke coming from the tailpipe is a significant concern as it can indicate coolant leaking into areas where it shouldn't be, potentially due to a faulty head gasket. This issue requires thorough inspection and repair to prevent further damage to the engine .

These problems can impact the performance, safety, and overall driving experience of the Scion xB 2003. It is essential for owners to address these issues promptly to ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicles.

Is a Scion xB a reliable car?

The Scion xB is generally seen as a reliable vehicle. According to Consumer Reports, the Scion xB has consistently scored well in the reliability category throughout its production years. The Scion xB's average reliability score is 4 out of 5, which puts it in the upper tier of used cars in terms of dependability.

How long do Scion engines last?

The well-maintained Scion tC can last more than 250,000 miles. There are even reports of their Scion tCs lasting over 500,000 miles. As long as you're aware of the common problems of the particular vehicle you're planning to buy, you'll know what to look out for.

Does the Scion xB have a Toyota engine?

The second-generation xB is equipped with a 2.4 L straight-4 Toyota 2AZ-FE engine rated at 158 hp (118 kW) and 162 lb⋅ft (220 N⋅m), shared with the first-generation tC and the Toyota Camry, which at 22 mpg‑US (11 L/100 km; 26 mpg‑imp) city / 28 mpg‑US (8.4 L/100 km; 34 mpg‑imp) hwy has a higher fuel consumption than ...

How good of a car is a Scion?

The Scion iQ, a tiny four-seat hatchback, is one of the lowest-scoring cars we've tested in recent years. Slow, noisy, and uncomfortable, the iQ's few positives include exceptionally easy parking, and its very good 34-mpg overall fuel economy.

2003 Scion Xb car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Scion Xb problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Tires problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Scion Xb vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2003 Scion Xb complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Scion Xb.

2008-08-21

TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2008-08-19
Components: TIRES
Summary: A COOPER LIFELINER TOURING TIRE WITH LESS THAN EIGHT THOUSAND MILES ON IT (PURCHASED APP. EIGHT MONTHS AGO) FAILED ON MY WIFE'S CAR. NO PUNCTURE, NO SIGN OF TREAD DAMAGE, BUT THE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE BURST OPEN. THERE WAS NO IMPACT WITH ANY OBJECT OR CURB, THE CAR WAS TRAVELING AT AROUND 50 MILES PER HOUR. TIRE INFLATION AND ROAD CONDITION WERE OPTIMAL. NO INJURIES OR DAMAGE TO VEHICLE. TIRE SIZE: 185/60 R15 DOT CODE: DOT UT 90 C53 2806. *TR

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2003 Scion Xb recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2003 Scion Xb.

2006-07-17

Manufacturer: TRADESONIC
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: CERTAIN TRADESONIC COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: TRADESONIC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TRADESONIC AT 626-934-8884.

2006-06-29

Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2003 Scion Xb problems:

Updating AC System | Scion xB Forum

https://www.clubxb.com/threads/updating-ac-system.88965/

Feb 28, 2022 ... imscrowe said: I have had a 05 and 06 xb the most common ac problems when you have suction at 0 is the desiccant dryer probably came apart.

Scion XB Maintenance & Common Problems: Q&A on Check Engine ...

https://www.justanswer.com/car/mih1y-2010-scion-xb-s-oil-check-engine-lights.html

Jul 18, 2023 ... My 2010 Scion XB's oil, check engine lights came on about 3 blocks from my house. I drove home, later checked oil and - Answered by a ...

2005 xb automatic transmission problem need advice | Scion xB ...

https://www.clubxb.com/threads/2005-xb-automatic-transmission-problem-need-advice.78218/

Apr 4, 2016 ... The AT units on the 1st gen are really robust units, like most Toyota ATs. The most common cause of fluid coming out of the vent tube is an ...

Scion xB Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues

https://repairpal.com/problems/scion/xb

Top Scion xB Problems · Check Engine Light Due to Defective VVT-i Controller · Cable Adjustment Needed if AC Doesn't Blow Cold Enough · Excessive Oil Consumption.

The Scion xB Years To Avoid - CoPilot

https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/scion-xb-years-to-avoid/

Aug 15, 2023 ... Engine problems: Some owners of the 2008 Scion xB have reported engine failure or excessive oil consumption. These issues can be costly to ...