Toyota 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.

photo of Toyota Scion xb car production

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Toyota Scion xb model years

toyota scion xb 2008 photo
Scion xb 2008
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Common Toyota Scion xb problems

The Toyota Scion xB is known for its practicality, reliability, and unique boxy design. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported.

One of the most common issues is excessive engine oil consumption, particularly in the 2008 and 2009 models, as well as the 2012 model. Many drivers have reported needing to frequently top up their oil every 5,000 miles or even less. This is significantly more frequent than the usual oil change interval, which is typically between 7,500 and 10,000 miles depending on the car model and engine.

Another issue that has affected the Scion xB is the faulty cruise control system. There were two recalls to address the inability of drivers to properly disengage the cruise control system. The problem was that the car wouldn't return to idle after turning the cruise control system off, posing a safety risk. The recall in 2007 addressed these issues, and drivers could once again use the cruise control feature safely.

The airbag inflator module has also been a problem for the Scion xB, particularly in the 2008 and 2009 models. The airbag inflator module is responsible for triggering the airbags, but it has been known to cause ruptures and small explosions within the module during airbag deployment. This issue was solved through airbag recalls, which mostly affected the 2008 and 2009 models.

The braking system has also been a problem for the Scion xB, with cracked brake hoses lowering the hydraulic pressure in the system. This makes it more difficult to come to a safe stop, and it affected different Scion xB models from 2008 to 2015, particularly those with the optional TRD braking kit.

The Scion xB's rear hatch handle assembly is another common problem, particularly in the 2005-2010 models. The plastic handle can break, making it difficult to open the rear hatch. This issue can be frustrating for drivers, especially if they need to access the cargo area frequently.

Some owners of the 2008 Scion xB have reported engine failure or excessive oil consumption. These issues can be costly to repair and are more likely to occur as the vehicle ages or if it hasn't been well-maintained.

Scion xB owners, particularly of the 2006 model, have also reported problems with the air conditioning not cooling effectively. This issue usually requires a simple repair or recharge of the AC system.

In summary, the Toyota Scion xB is generally a reliable vehicle, but it has its share of common problems that owners have reported. These include excessive engine oil consumption, faulty cruise control system, issues with the airbag inflator module, problems with the braking system, faulty rear hatch handle assembly, engine failure, and air conditioning issues. If you're considering purchasing a used Scion xB, it's essential to check its service history and be aware of these potential issues.

Toyota Scion xb

Is the 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.

Which years of Scion xB have oil consumption issues?

The 2008 Scion xB experienced engine issues, including oil consumption, stalling, and rough idling. The 2010 Scion xB had electrical system malfunctions, such as faulty power windows and audio system problems. The 2012 Scion xB faced power steering problems, resulting in stiff or unresponsive steering.

What is the life expectancy of a Scion xB?

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.

Do Scion cars last long?

The well-maintained Scion tC can last more than 250,000 miles.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Scion xb years

We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Scion xb cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Toyota Scion xb model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Scion xb model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Scion xb years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Toyota Scion xb car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Scion xb , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Engine problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Structure problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems

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

The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Scion xb . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Scion xb vehicles.

List of Toyota Scion xb complaints

Toyota Scion xb 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-02-16
  • Date Complaint: 2021-01-14
  • VIN: JTLKE50E881
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: VEHICLE USES EXTENSIVE AMOUNTS OF OIL WHEN TRAVELING SHORT DISTANCES WETHER ON A HIGHWAY OR CITY STREETS, THIS YEAR AND MODEL OF THE ENGINE CAN USE A LOT OF OIL AND MAY BE FATAL TO OTHERS OF OIL IS NOT CHECKED ON A DAILY BASIS. THE VEHICLE HAS NO SIGNS OF LEAKAGE.
Toyota Scion xb 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-09-25
  • Date Complaint: 2020-11-23
  • VIN: JTLKE50E281
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: RIGHT FRONT ROTOR DISC SPLIT OPEN OVER TIME UNTIL IT AFFECTED ABOUT ⅔ OF THE CIRCUMFERENCE , AND IMPAIRED BRAKE ABILITY. I HAVE ATTACHED A PHOTO OF THE ROTOR AND A SERVICE RECEIPT.
Toyota Scion xb 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-09-23
  • Date Complaint: 2020-10-26
  • VIN: JTLKE50E581
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: MY 2008 SCION XB USES TOO MUCH OIL. I GOT COMPLETE OIL CHANGE APRIL 10,2020. WITHIN 30 DAYS HAD TO ADD QUART OF SYNTHETIC OIL ALREADY. THEN LOOKED UP RECALL. RECALL W MY VIN# SAID MAKE SERVICE APPT. AT LOCAL TOYOTA . ELK GROVE TOYOTA MADE 2 APPTS. WHEN CHECKED IN THEY SAID THE ASSOCIATE WASNT AT WORK AND RECALL EXPIRED IN 2017. THEN ROBERTA CALLED ME AND LOOKED INTO IT, SAID IT WAS EXTENDED TIL 9/92025. MADE ANOTHER APPT. SAME OUTCOME WHEN I CHECKED IN.WAS GARANTEED THE WORK WOULD BE DONE AND IT WASNT.
Toyota Scion xb 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-02-15
  • Date Complaint: 2020-08-16
  • VIN: JTLKE50E981
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: DIESEL OIL RUNS OUT QUICKLY. HOWEVER, THERE ARE NO SIGNS OF DIESEL OIL LEAKING ON THE GROUND OR WHILE DRIVING.
Toyota Scion xb 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-03-02
  • Date Complaint: 2020-06-18
  • VIN: JTLKE50E981
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 TOYOTA SCION XB. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE RECEIVED AN EXTENDED WARRANTY NOTIFICATION FOR EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MIDTOWN TOYOTA (2700 N CICERO AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60639) WHERE HE RECEIVED AN OIL CHANGE AND WAS INFORMED TO RETURN THE VEHICLE ONCE HE DROVE ANOTHER 1200 MILES. AT THE STATED MILEAGE, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO SERVICE THE VEHICLE ON THAT DAY DUE TO THE NUMBER OF VEHICLES THAT WERE ALREADY SCHEDULED TO BE REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RETURNED TWO DAYS LATER AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE EXCEEDED THE MILEAGE LIMIT AND WAS THEREFORE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THE EXTENDED WARRANTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITH SEVERAL UNKNOWN WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO HIS RESIDENCE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 150,000.
Toyota Scion xb 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2018-06-01
  • Date Complaint: 2020-03-24
  • VIN: JTLKE50E381
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: THE CAR IS SUCKING UP THE OIL I GET A OIL CHANGE AND THE NEXT DAY I HAVE TO PUT A QUART OF OIL EVERYDAY IS CHECKING THE OIL I HAVE TO PUT AT LEAST 3 QUARTS OF OIL IN IT IT DOES NOT HOLD THE OIL AND YOU DON'T SEE WHERE THE OIL IS DRIPPING OUT AT.I LOVE MY CAR BUT I AM HAVING SO MANY PROBLEMS WITH THIS OIL.
Toyota Scion xb 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2016-02-10
  • Date Complaint: 2020-02-10
  • VIN: JTLKE50EX81
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: THERE WAS A RECALL AND THEY TESTED MY CAR INCORRECTLY. MY CAR EVERY OILS CHANGE I HAVE TO PUT THREE LITERS OF OIL IN IT.
Toyota Scion xb 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-04
  • Date Complaint: 2020-01-07
  • VIN: JTLKE50E881
  • Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AND MY HOOD FLEW UP AGAINST MY WINDSHIELD. I HAD TO PULL OFF THE FREEWAY AND MY HOOD IS SEVERELY DAMAGED BECAUSE OF THIS. IT CRACKED MY WINDSHIELD AND COULD HAVE CAUSED MAJOR ACCIDENTS.
Toyota Scion xb 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-04
  • Date Complaint: 2020-01-07
  • VIN: JTLKE50E881
  • Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AND MY HOOD FLEW UP AGAINST MY WINDSHIELD. I HAD TO PULL OFF THE FREEWAY AND MY HOOD IS SEVERELY DAMAGED BECAUSE OF THIS. IT CRACKED MY WINDSHIELD AND COULD HAVE CAUSED MAJOR ACCIDENTS.
Toyota Scion xb 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-04
  • Date Complaint: 2020-01-07
  • VIN: JTLKE50E881
  • Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AND MY HOOD FLEW UP AGAINST MY WINDSHIELD. I HAD TO PULL OFF THE FREEWAY AND MY HOOD IS SEVERELY DAMAGED BECAUSE OF THIS. IT CRACKED MY WINDSHIELD AND COULD HAVE CAUSED MAJOR ACCIDENTS.
Toyota Scion xb 2008
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-02-03
  • Date Complaint: 2017-04-08
  • VIN: JTLKE500810
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: "TAKATA RECALL" SCION SENT ME A LETTER STATING HAVE NO FRONT SEAT PASSENGER RIDE IN MY CAR. NO FURTHER WORD REGARDING UPGRADE OR FIX. UNREALISTIC TO EXPECT NO FRONT SEAT PASSENGER INDEFINITELY. NO REMEDY RECOMMENDED.

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