2013 Scion Xb problems

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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.

2013 Scion Xb

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Common 2013 Scion Xb problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 2013 Scion xB, several common problems have been identified:

  1. Defective Pistons and Piston Rings: Some 2.4-liter engines in the Scion xB are prone to having defective pistons and piston rings, leading to engine oil burning issues .
  2. Front Airbag Inflator Recall: Models from 2008 to 2012 have been recalled due to a risk of front airbag inflators exploding .
  3. Steering Control Module Malfunction: The steering control module in 2008 to 2010 models is susceptible to malfunction, causing sudden difficulty in turning the steering wheel due to power steering issues .
  4. Peeling Paint on the Roof: Many Scion xB vehicles experience issues with the paint peeling off the roof .
  5. AC Compressor Malfunction: The AC compressor tends to malfunction before the vehicle reaches 100,000 miles, resulting in the AC system not blowing cold air .
  6. CV Joint Damage: The CV boots are prone to tearing, allowing dirt to enter the CV joints, leading to damage and ticking noises when turning the steering wheel while accelerating .
  7. Ignition Coil Malfunction: Malfunctioning ignition coils can cause engine vibrations and hesitation under acceleration due to cylinder misfires .
  8. Water Pump Coolant Leaks: The water pump is prone to developing coolant leaks before the vehicle reaches 100,000 miles .
  9. Noisy Rear Wheel Bearings: Rear wheel bearings tend to become noisy and experience premature failure .
  10. Spontaneous Windshield Cracks: Windshields in many Scion xB vehicles tend to crack spontaneously without being hit by any object .

These issues highlight various mechanical and safety concerns that owners of the 2013 Scion xB have reported. Addressing these problems promptly through proper maintenance and repairs is crucial to ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.

2013 Scion Xb engine

What was the worst year for Scion xB?

Which Scion xB Years Are The Least Reliable?

  • 2008 Scion xB: This year is often reported for excessive oil consumption and cruise control issues.
  • 2009 Scion xB: This year is often noted for excessive oil consumption and many different recalls.

How many miles will a 2013 Scion xB last?

With proper maintenance, you can easily put 450,000 miles on a Scion xB.

How long do Scion xB engines last?

However, it is common for a well-maintained Scion xB to exceed 200,000 miles, with many smart owners passing the 450,000-mile mark with regular maintenance and timely repairs, according to CarParts.com.

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 ...

2013 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:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Engine problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2013 Scion Xb vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2013 Scion Xb complaints

The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Scion Xb.

2023-12-11

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-10
  • VIN: JTLZE4FE9DJ
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: This is a known issue with the 2013 Scion xB and several other models that use the same 2.4L 2AZ-FE engine. A number of Scion owners have reported excessive oil consumption, where the vehicle burns off or consumes engine oil faster than it should. This causes low oil levels which may lead to serious engine damage if not addressed in time. The problem is most noticeable on vehicles with high mileage or older models, as oil consumption can increase over time. In some cases, the excessive oil consumption could be a result of an oil leak, but more commonly, it's due to an engine problem. Possible reasons could include worn piston rings, faulty PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve, damaged valve seals or oil sludge build-up. The excess oil is burnt off during combustion, leading to low oil levels. Scion (and Toyota, Scion’s parent company) has acknowledged the problem and extended the warranty on some models to cover the repair of the oil consumption problem. The repairs generally involve the replacement of the pistons and piston rings. But due to my vehicle being over the mileage limit Toyota refuses to fix it
2023-05-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-05-21
  • VIN: JTLZE4FE8DJ
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Car is using a quarter of oil additional every 3000 miles
2022-08-08

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-04-22
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: JTLZE4FE0DJ
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: On April 22, 2022 the car burst into flames while parked in a supermarket parking lot at 1000 US Route 1, Edison, New Jersey. Fortunately I was not in it at the time but the car was a total loss. There were no warnings ahead of time.
2021-05-22

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-01-01
  • VIN: JTLZE4FE7DJ
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Hi, Air bag light started intermittently flashing in January. Toyota could not diagnose until it was on all the time. Charged me $89.95. Air bag light stays on all the time 04-25-21. Take it to Toyota and diagnose intermittent open in driver side front door harness in circuit to left front door air bag sensor. $272.88. Want an additional $739.78 to replace harness. This is same problem that has been recalled on Toyota Venza and Avalon to the best of my knowledge. Harness is too short and rubs on door frame, causing open circuit. I believe this is an overall Toyota/Scion problem.
2021-05-08

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-01-17
  • VIN: JTLZE4FE7DJ
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
  • Summary: DRIVERS DOOR AIR BAG HARNESS HAS AN OPEN CODE. PART # 82152-12L23. SAME PROBLEM THST TOYOTA HAS WITH RECALLED VENZA. TOYOTA WANTS OVER $1,000 TO FIX. AIR BAG LIGHT ON ALL OF THE TIME.
2021-02-24

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-02-18
  • VIN: JTLZE4FE0DJ
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: THIS IS NOT A COMPLAINT!! I JUST WANTED TO INFORM YOU THAT THE RECALL NOTICE FOR THIS SCION AND VIN DOESN'T APPLY TO THIS MODEL. CAN THIS RECALL (18E091) NOTICE BE TAKEN OFF PLEASE?
2019-01-07

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-01-06
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Fire: 1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: CLUTCH, 2013, WAGON, XB, TANAKA, HUMID, SMOKING, MELTING, SMELL, FLUIDS. WHEN I DROVE THIS LEMON OFF THE LOT IT HAD 17 MILES. 2013 SCION, XB, CLUTCH, WAGON, 4 DOOR, SILVER, LIMITED EDITION?????? [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
2018-11-09

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-11-09
  • VIN: JTLZE4FE1DJ
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL MY WINDSHIELD, THE FRONT WINDOW, CRACKED ON ITS OWN THE FIRST TIME I EVER DROVE THE CAR WHERE IT WAS LIGHTLY SNOWING. IT MADE A HUGE BANG AND A CRACK IN A SHAPE OF J HAPPENED AND HALF AN HOUR LATER AGAIN A HUGE SOUND LIKE BANG AND A LINE RIGHT ACROSS THE MIDDLE APPEARED.
2017-08-28

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-01-01
  • VIN: JTLZE4FE2DJ
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALLS STATIONARY....
2014-08-21

AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-08-21
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JTLZE4FE9DJ
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: EARLIER TODAY I WAS INVOLVED IN A CAR ACCIDENT ON MY 2013 SCION XB. MY CAR'S FRONT BUMPER AND HOOD ARE COMPLETELY DAMAGE, ALONG WITH THE SIDE FENDERS, THE RADIATOR IS ALSO BROKEN AND OUT OF PLACE, EVEN THE FRAME IS A BIT BENT. THE BRAKES TOO A BIT LONGER THAN USUAL TO KICK-IN AND THE PERSON IN FRONT OF ME MADE A SUDDEN STOP 'CAUSING A REAR COLLISION ON THE PERSON IN FRONT OF ME (WHOM BY THE WAY TOOK OFF BEFORE I EVEN GOT OUT OF THE CAR). AIRBAGS DID NOT GO OFF (AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT I WAS WITH MY 1 YEAR OLD), LUCKILY MY SON AND I ARE SAFE BUT I'M THINGS COULD'VE GONE EITHER WAY, I DON'T FEEL CONFIDENT THAT MY FAMILY AND I WILL BE SAFE DRIVING THIS CAR AND I WAS WONDERING IF YOU COULD LOOK DEEPER INTO IT (WOULDN'T WANT IT TO HAPPEN TO ANYONE ELSE). *TR
2014-04-04

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-01-14
  • VIN: JTLZE4FEXDJ
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SCION XB. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRUNK FAILED TO LATCH PROPERLY. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT WATER HAD ENTERED THE HEADLIGHT HOUSING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN REPLACED THE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY AND LUBRICATED THE LOCK. THE REMEDY FOR THE TRUCK FAILED TO REPAIRED THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHO DETERMINED THAT THE BAR BEHIND THE BUMPER ASSEMBLY WAS CROOKED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 2,800.

2013 Scion Xb recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2013 Scion Xb.

2019-01-09
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Toyota 4Runner, 2014-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, and 2014-2017 Lexus GX460 vehicles sold, or ever registered in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Toyota is also recalling certain 2011-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS250, IS350, 2011-2016 4Runner, 2011-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2011-2014 Toyota Sienna, Lexus IS-F, 2011-2017 Lexus GX460, and 2011-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Toyota is also recalling certain 2010-2013 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Lexus IS350, 2010-2016 4Runner, 2010-2013 Lexus IS250, 2010-2015 Scion xB, Lexus IS350C, IS250C, 2010-2017 Lexus GX460, 2010-2014 Lexus IS-F, and 2010-2012 Lexus ES350 vehicles ever registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, used as original equipment or replacement equipment (such as after a vehicle crash necessitating replacement of the original air bags), that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Toyota will notify owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, or replace the air bag assembly. The recall began February 15, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are "Zone A" Toyota: G0P, Lexus: GLG; "Zone B" Toyota: G0R, Lexus GLH; "Zone C" Toyota: H0A, and Lexus: HLA.
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.
2018-01-09
  • Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2013 Scion xB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sienna, 4Runner, Lexus IS250, IS350, IS250C, IS350C, IS-F, and GX460 vehicles sold, ever registered, in the states of AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, PR, AS, GU, the MP (Saipan), and the U.S. VI or "Zone A." Toyota is also recalling certain 2010 Scion xB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, 4Runner, Lexus IS250, IS350, IS250C, IS350C, ES350, IS-F, GX460, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles sold, ever registered, in the states of AZ, AR, DE, DC, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV or "Zone B." Toyota is also recalling certain 2009 Scion xB, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Yaris, Lexus IS250, IS350, ES350, IS-F, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles ever registered in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Toyota will notify the Toyota, Scion and Lexus owners. General Motors will contact the Pontiac owners. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, or replace the air bag assembly. The recall began on January 29, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331, or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. Toyota's numbers for this recall are "Zone A" Toyota: G0P, Lexus: GLG; "Zone B" Toyota: G0R, Lexus GLH; "Zone C" Toyota: H0A, and Lexus: HLA.

Negative 2013 Scion Xb car reviews

  1. Hubert Ferry 2024-02-26

    My girlfriend purchased a brand new 2013 car with a 5-speed manual transmission. Although the transmission failed at around 110,000 miles, we were fortunate that it was covered under the transmission lifetime warranty. However, at 124,000 miles, the car began to consume excessive oil. We took it to the dealer, and Toyota will be addressing the issue by re-ringing the block and performing a valve job. While I am disappointed that this issue occurred, I am confident that Toyota will resolve it. The shifter can be loose at times, making it difficult to shift into first and third gear.

Positive 2013 Scion Xb car reviews

  1. Immanuel Littel 2024-11-12

    I owned a used 2012 Scion for 1.5 years and loved it so much that I purchased another one. The little wagon has great interior head and leg room in both the front and rear. Although the gas mileage was a little lower than I expected, it's understandable for a box-shaped vehicle. I did notice that both 2012 Scions required the roof to be repainted, which may be a common issue with this style.

  2. Keven Frami 2024-11-01

    Great on gas, well equipped, gets the job done, and has plenty of room for our kids and all their stuff!

  3. Sammy Robel 2024-10-19

    This car is fantastic! It comes with a 2.4L 4 cylinder engine and a 4-speed transmission. I've owned this car for 5 months now and I can confidently say two things about it: 1) It's practically indestructible and 2) You can fit almost anything in it. I highly recommend this car for work, play, and family! I purchased it with 14,xxx miles on it and it now has 24,xxx miles.

  4. Imani Brakus 2024-09-21

    This vehicle is one of the best handling and efficient cars you could ever want, thanks to the Camry engine. I have hauled a lot of stuff on my numerous trips between Scottsdale, AZ and Los Angeles on the I 10 freeway, going 75 to 85 mph in AZ and 70 to 80 mph in CA. Scion has now been incorporated into the general Toyota brands, but if you get a chance to drive one, you will be pleasantly surprised.

  5. Noble Towne 2024-08-18

    This is a fantastic sporty hauler with plenty of style, power, and space! It's incredibly reliable and efficient, making it a great choice for any adventure. Whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating the city, this little wagon is sure to keep you comfortable and confident.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2013 Scion Xb problems:

2013 Scion xB Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
2013 Scion xB Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2013-scion-xb/problems

Problem with your 2013 Scion xB? Our list of 3 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2013 Scion xB.

2013 Scion xB Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2013 Scion xB Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/scion/xb/2013/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2013 Scion xB? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

2014 Scion xB Problems and Complaints - 2 Issues
2014 Scion xB Problems and Complaints - 2 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2014-scion-xb/problems

Problem with your 2014 Scion xB? Our list of 2 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2014 Scion xB.

Oil consumption question...Is it really that bad? | Scion xB Forum
Oil consumption question...Is it really that bad? | Scion xB Forum
https://www.clubxb.com/threads/oil-consumption-question-is-it-really-that-bad.88705/

Jul 20, 2021 ... I have a 2012 9.0 RS which was built in September 2012 and is almost considered a 2013. No oil consumption issues for me Thank God. Late model ...

Fuel gauge issue? | Scion XB Forum
Fuel gauge issue? | Scion XB Forum
https://www.newscionxb.com/threads/fuel-gauge-issue.13394/

Sep 24, 2013 ... #1 · Sep 24, 2013. My 2012 xB only goes about ... Is it a common problem with xB's? Thanks for ... 2nd Gen Scion xB Talk · mark Jun 9, 2013.

Other years of Scion Xb

scion xb 2014 photo
Xb 2014
Scion

8

3

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
scion xb 2015 photo
Xb 2015
Scion

6

3

13

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
scion xb 2003 photo
Xb 2003
Scion

1

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
scion xb 2004 photo
Xb 2004
Scion

36

6

26

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
scion xb 2005 photo
Xb 2005
Scion

92

7

23

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
scion xb 2006 photo
Xb 2006
Scion

250

11

25

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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2013 Scion Xb photo