The Scion tC is a compact car that was manufactured by Toyota from 2005 until 2016. It spanned two generations, with both being built in Japan. tC means “touring coupe,” and it was Scion’s best-selling car, making up about 40% of the total brand’s sales. In total, more than 400,000 tC models were sold during its 11 years on the market.
If you are looking for a great deal on a used Scion tC, it’s best to do your research first. Not all models are worth the small amount they are selling for. You may end up with more of a headache than you bargained for. With the use of our comprehensive charts and data, you can quickly see which tC models are worth your investment.
Most important is the data that comes from the FIXD car scanners that tC owners have used to diagnose minor to major problems. We combine this data with some other leading sources to help you get a better picture of what each model brings to the table.
Scion tC Engine Reliability Score, Safety Ratings, MPG, Value v.s. Maintenance & Repair Cost, and F.I.R.I.S. – Year by Year
There aren’t a lot of Scion tC models to choose from if you want one used, but you should still do your research to make sure you don’t end up with a dud. Our data gives you every piece of information that matters, helping you get your money’s worth out of the used car. We add in ratings from the leading automotive publishers paired with our reliability ratings. You’ll also find safety scores, fuel economy ratings, and annual maintenance expenses.
Before you decide that the Scion tC is right for you, consider a few other options. We have reviewed the Honda Civic, Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Sonic, Subaru Impreza, and Nissan Sentra.
If you’re in the market for a car, take a look at our article on the USA’s most reliable and cheapest to repair cars in the U.S. Don’t get stuck with a lemon, use our data to help you shop.
Engine Reliability Score – Over The Years
Our Scion tC reliability chart reveals the average ranking of each model year. To determine the score, the number of check engine lights set by each tC model was taken into account, weighted by an average of 12,000 miles of driving per year.
We rank each model with a score between 1 and 10. At the very best, a model earns a 10, with a score of 1 being the lowest. If the model is average, it scores a 5. For the most part, the newer the tC model is, the better the reliability score is, with a few exceptions. However, you must always look at this data in comparison with the other information we provide before determining which are the best and worst tC models.
It’s also imperative to take a look at the most common reasons for the Check Engine Light on Scion tC models. This data gives you a clearer picture of the most probable issues.
NHTSA Safety Score – Over The Years
All of the safety information we have comes from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA). These scores are critical when determining what tC models are the safest. This government agency is in charge of crash-testing the majority of vehicles on the road today and giving each model a score.
When you look at this chart, it becomes clear that the 2005-2007 Scion tC models fall below the average of other vehicles we have data for. However, the rest of the tC models exceed expectations. Reference the green line to see the average score of every Scion tC model and compare it against the gray line that shows the average we have across the board. Just keep in mind that this average line reveals all types of vehicles, from compact cars to large, full-size trucks.
There are many reasons why you want a safe car. First, you want to know you are protected if a crash occurs. Secondly, you can get cheap car insurance rates if the vehicle is considered safe.
If you live in one of the states listed below, we can show you the cheapest vehicles to insure in yours.
| What Used Cars Are the Cheapest To Insure In: |
| Ohio |
| North Carolina |
| Michigan |
| Georgia |
| Texas |
| New York |
| Illinois |
| Pennsylvania |
| California |
MPG – Over The Years
Because the Scion tC is a compact car, it should naturally get decent fuel economy numbers. This model was only offered with a gas-powered engine, but some model years perform better than others. All of these scores were sourced from fueleconomy.gov, using the available trim levels and configurations.
The 2014-2016 tC models earn the highest average at 26 mpg. While you may not think that is a big difference from the 2005-2006 tC models at 23 mpg, the extra three miles per gallon adds up quickly, easily when gas prices are high.
Current Market Value of All Scion tC Years vs. Value for the Money
Most Scion tC models can be bought for less than $10,000. However, you must balance that cost with how much you will spend on maintenance and repairs, especially when the car gets older. We source this information from repairpal.com
to help you budget accordingly. Additionally, it’s wise to run a personalized KBB value report before buying or selling a Scion tC. You get detailed information when you enter the model years, trim levels, features, and mileage.
When shopping for a used Scion tC, it’s important to keep in mind that not all vehicles are cared for equally. To protect yourself from lemons, take along a FIXD Sensor on your test drive. FIXD connects to a free app on your smartphone to tell you more about the vehicle you’re checking out, including check engine lights and other hidden issues that the owner or dealership may be attempting to hide. Click here to learn more and get FIXD for only $19.99 (regular price $59)!
F.I.R.I.S. – Fixd Internet Review Index Score– Over the Model Years
Our proprietary FIXD Internet Review Index Score (F.I.R.I.S.) uses varying factors to give an overall score. We take the ratings from some of the top sites and average them to give you a score. Here are the sites we use:
It’s fair to say that none of the Scion tC models get terrible ratings. Yet, this data does point out one model year in particular worth looking at. The 2011 Scion tC was the first of a new generation, so the publications rated it lower due to some mechanical issues that needed to be worked out. We also listed this model in our worst tC list, but it’s not as bad as you might think when looking at some of the other data.
Important Features Timeline
2005: Brand-new coupe released from Toyota’s Scion nameplate
2006: Newly released three-spoke steering wheel includes audio controls, iPod connectivity becomes available
2007: Spec trim becomes a basic lower-end model, allowing for more customization
2008: Updated front and rear styling, new instrument panel and fabric added, auxiliary audio input jack comes standard
2009: Spec trim discontinued
2010: New Special Release Series 6.0 edition added to the lineup
2011: Completely redesigned for 2nd generation
2012: Base audio system upgraded with HD capability and Bluetooth streaming, limited-edition Release Series 7.0 becomes available with yellow paint, keyless ignition/entry, and a body kit
2013: New Release Series 8.0 trim released
2014: Special 10th-anniversary model offered, new styling upgrades, updated automatic transmission
2015: Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters added to automatic transmission
2016: 7-inch touchscreen, keyless entry and ignition, and a rear windshield wiper added as standard equipment
The Best Years of the Scion tC
To determine the best average rating on each Scion tC model, we had to combine all of the information we had. It’s not fair to simply use the FIXD Reliability ratings as a judge. Below you’ll find the best to worst Scion tC model years based on a combined score of fuel economy ratings, safety scores, average yearly maintenance costs, common trouble codes, and recalls, as shown by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
2016 Scion tC
FIXD Reliability Score: 7/10
FIXD Internet Review Index Score (F.I.R.I.S): 9.0/10
Mileage Est. KBB Value: $12,579
Fuel Economy: 26 mpg (gas)
RepairPal Average Annual Repairs Total: $474
Safety Rating: 4.6/5
The very last Scion tC model ever made earns the top spot in our rankings. It has an excellent resale value, shows exceptional reliability scores, and doesn’t cost a lot to own.
The FIXD Reliability score for the 2016 tC is 7 out of 10. Additionally, our F.I.R.I.S. on the 2016 tC is 9.0/10, showing that you can rely on this Scion model.
The NHTSA crash test scores for the 2016 Scion tC are 4.6 (out of 5). This is better than average and a great score for a compact car.
Additionally, you can save a little money with this Scion. The average fuel economy is rated at 26 mpg.
Across the board, you shouldn’t need to spend a lot to maintain a compact car. The costs should be far less than with a large SUV or truck. However, the 2016 Scion tC shows an even better average than expected at $474 a year.
The biggest concern with the 2016 Scion tC is the Startability Malfunction (P1604) code. It also struggles with the Bank 1 Air/Fuel Ratio Imbalance (P219A) DTC. Aside from that, you may notice an O2 Sensor Positive Current Control Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 1 (P2238) code. The fixes on these codes can range from minor to major, which is why a professional technician may be needed for diagnosis.
There are three recalls on the 2016 Scion tC and minimal complaints from consumers.
2014-2015 Scion tC
FIXD Reliability Score: 5-6/10
FIXD Internet Review Index Score (F.I.R.I.S): 9.0/10
Mileage Est. KBB Value: $8,446-$10,094
Fuel Economy: 26 mpg (gas)
RepairPal Average Annual Repairs Total: $416-$428
Safety Rating: 4.6/5
Before the end of the tC production, these two years stand out as some of the best. With decent resale values, great safety scores, and a low cost of ownership, these are a fantastic option.
The FIXD Reliability score for the 2014 tC is 5 out of 10, while the 2015 Scion tC earns a rating of 6 out of 10. Additionally, our F.I.R.I.S. on both the 2014 and 2015 tC is 9.0/10.
The NHTSA crash test scores for both the 2014 and 2015 Scion tC are 4.6 (out of 5). These scores are above average.
Don’t spend a lot of money at the pump. The average fuel economy on both models is rated at 26 mpg.
Maintenance costs are nothing to worry about with the 2014 and 2015 Scion tC. The 2014 tC is rated at $428 a year, while the 2015 model does even better at $416 a year.
Both models show a higher chance of the Startability Malfunction (P1604) code. They both indicate a chance for the Engine Rough Idling (P1605) DTC. There’s a chance that a new fuel pump could resolve this issue, costing, on average, between $457 and $617. While the 2014 Scion tC is dealing with the Low Power Supply Voltage Malfunction (C1241) code, the 2015 tC has an elevated chance of dealing with the TCU Communication Error (P1603) DTC.
The 2014 Scion tC only shows one recall, while the 2015 Scion tC has three.
2008-2009 Scion tC
FIXD Reliability Score: 4-5/10
FIXD Internet Review Index Score (F.I.R.I.S): 9.2/10
Mileage Est. KBB Value: $3,666-$3,952
Fuel Economy: 24 mpg (gas)
RepairPal Average Annual Repairs Total: $376-$385
Safety Rating: 4.6/5
If you are looking for an older tC model, you can’t go wrong with the 2008 or 2009. These have a low ownership cost and still get some decent reviews.
The FIXD Reliability score for the 2008 tC is 4 out of 10, while the 2009 Scion tC earns a rating of 5 out of 10. Additionally, our F.I.R.I.S. on both the 2008 and 2009 tC is 9.2/10.
The NHTSA crash test scores for both the 2008 and 2009 Scion tC are 4.6 (out of 5). You really can’t beat these safety scores for an older model.
The fuel economy on the 2008 and 2009 Scion tC is a little lower than the newer models. Still, at 24 mpg average, it’s hard to be upset.
What’s really surprising is the low cost of maintenance. With an average annual cost of $385 on the 2008 tC and $376 on the 2009 model, you won’t go broke trying to keep the car in good shape.
Both tC models deal with the Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow (P0441) code. This relates to the System Gross Leak Evaporative Emission (P0455) code that shows up with both models. A fuel filler cap is the most common repair on both error codes, costing between $58 and $165. Sadly, both tC models also deal with the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) code, which could require a new catalytic converter costing $1,538 to $2,041.
The 2008 Scion tC has three recalls, as does the 2009 Scion tC.
2012-2013 Scion tC
FIXD Reliability Score: 6/10
FIXD Internet Review Index Score (F.I.R.I.S): 8.6-9.0/10
Mileage Est. KBB Value: $5,865-$6,551
Fuel Economy: 25 mpg (gas)
RepairPal Average Annual Repairs Total: $600-$610
Safety Rating: 4.6/5
Rounding out our list of tC models is the 2012 and 2013 years. The cost of ownership is slightly higher, but the reliability averages out, making them worth a look.
The FIXD Reliability score for both the 2012 and 2013 Scion tC is 6 out of 10. Our F.I.R.I.S. on the 2012 tC is 8.6/10, and the 2013 Scion tC earns a rating of 9.0/10.
The NHTSA crash test scores for both the 2012 and 2013 Scion tC continue to be 4.6 (out of 5). This has been the theme of all the tC models we’ve put in the best category.
The fuel economy on the 2012 and 2013 Scion tC is worth being happy about. With a 25 mpg average, you may save a little money at the pump.
The cost of ownership does go up a little with these two tC models. 2012 Scion tC models average $610 a year, while the 2013 model is rated at $600 per year.
The biggest fault with the 2012 Scion tC is the Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow (P0441) code. With the 2013 tC models, you need to worry more about the Startability Malfunction (P1604) code. It also deals with the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) code, which could mean a new catalytic converter is in the future, costing $1,538 to $2,041.
While the 2012 Scion tC has two recalls, the 2013 Scion tC only shows one.
The Worst Years of the Scion tC
With the same resources that we used for the best models, we were also able to discern which ones are the worst Scion tC years. With this ranking, we start with the absolute worst and work our way to the models that may not be too terrible.
2005-2006 Scion tC
FIXD Reliability Score: 4/10
FIXD Internet Review Index Score (F.I.R.I.S): 9.2-9.3/10
Mileage Est. KBB Value: $2,257-$2,816
Fuel Economy: 23 mpg (gas)
RepairPal Average Annual Repairs Total: $679-$840
Safety Rating: 4.2/5
To start off the worst tC models, we had to list the very first models made. Not only do these have the lowest fuel economy rating and below-average safety scores, but the resale value is so low that any major repair could send these to the junkyard.
The FIXD Reliability score for both the 2005 and 2006 Scion tC is 4 out of 10. Our F.I.R.I.S. on the 2005 tC is 9.3/10, and the 2006 Scion tC earns a rating of 9.2/10.
The NHTSA crash test scores for both the 2005 and 2006 Scion tC are 4.2 (out of 5). These scores are below average, signifying that they may not be the best choice if you want the safest model.
The fuel economy on the 2005 and 2006 Scion tC is also the lowest of all the models. These cars earn an average of 23 mpg.
Another issue is the cost of ownership. It goes up dramatically with these two model years. On average, the 2005 Scion tC costs $840 a year, while the 2006 tC is rated at $679.
Of the major faults, the most concerning is the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) code, which could mean a new catalytic converter costing $1,538 to $2,041. There’s also the issue of the Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow (P0441) code, which could be a new fuel filler cap costing $58 to $165 or a charcoal canister, with an average cost of $753 to $1,000. There’s a further chance of the System Gross Leak Evaporative Emission (P0455) code, which may also indicate a bad fuel filler cap.
The 2005 Scion tC shows four recalls, but the 2006 Scion tC has five.
2007 Scion tC
FIXD Reliability Score: 3/10
FIXD Internet Review Index Score (F.I.R.I.S): 9.2/10
Mileage Est. KBB Value: $3,305
Fuel Economy: 24 mpg (gas)
RepairPal Average Annual Repairs Total: $307
Safety Rating: 4.2/5
While the ratings on the 2007 Scion tC aren’t any better than the first two, we listed this one next because the cost of ownership drops and the resale value is higher, so there’s a little more wiggle room when making repairs.
The FIXD Reliability score for the 2007 Scion tC is 3 out of 10. Additionally, our F.I.R.I.S. on the 2007 Scion tC is 9.2/10.
The NHTSA crash test scores for the 2007 Scion tC are 4.2 (out of 5). This is below average when looking at all of the models we’ve charted.
The fuel economy of the 2007 Scion tC is slightly better than the previous two models. These cars earn an average of 24 mpg.
The average cost of ownership also goes down. It averages just $307 a year, which is very reasonable considering its age.
The top three problems with this model are the Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow (P0441) code and the System Gross Leak Evaporative Emission (P0455) code. Both of these could indicate the need for a new fuel filler cap costing $58 to $165. It could also show the Evaporative Emissions Control System Leak – Small (P0456) code, which also points to a possible fuel filler cap problem.
The 2007 Scion tC only shows two recalls.
2010 Scion tC
FIXD Reliability Score: 5/10
FIXD Internet Review Index Score (F.I.R.I.S): 9.3/10
Mileage Est. KBB Value: $4,483
Fuel Economy: 24 mpg (gas)
RepairPal Average Annual Repairs Total: $421
Safety Rating: 4.6/5
The final model in the 1st generation has a low resale value and average reliability ratings.
The FIXD Reliability score for the 2010 Scion tC is 5 out of 10. Additionally, our F.I.R.I.S. on the 2010 Scion tC is 9.3/10.
The NHTSA crash test scores for the 2010 Scion tC go back up into an above-average range. This model is rated at 4.6 (out of 5).
The fuel economy on the 2010 Scion tC doesn’t do any better with fuel economy though. These cars still earn an average of 24 mpg.
The average cost of ownership is reasonable for the older age. It averages just $421 a year, so you may not spend a lot to maintain it.
The top three problems with this model are the System Gross Leak Evaporative Emission (P0455) code and the Evaporative Emission Control System Incorrect Purge Flow (P0441) code. There’s also the chance of the Evaporative Emissions Control System Leak – Small (P0456) code, but all three could be something as simple as the fuel filler cap costing $58 to $165.
There are only two recalls for the 2010 Scion tC.
2011 Scion tC
FIXD Reliability Score: 5/10
FIXD Internet Review Index Score (F.I.R.I.S): 8.0/10
Mileage Est. KBB Value: $5,041
Fuel Economy: 25 mpg (gas)
RepairPal Average Annual Repairs Total: $461
Safety Rating: 4.6/5
As the first model in the 2nd generation, there were a few bugs to work out. The fuel economy goes up with this model, but the F.I.R.I.S. drops.
The FIXD Reliability score for the 2011 Scion tC is 5 out of 10. Additionally, our F.I.R.I.S. on the 2011 Scion tC is 8.0/10, which is slightly alarming.
The NHTSA crash test scores for the 2011 Scion tC are great. This model is rated at 4.6 (out of 5).
The fuel economy on the 2011 Scion tC also rises slightly with some upgrades done to the new generation. These cars earn an average of 25 mpg.
The average cost of ownership continues to be reasonable. It averages just $461 a year, so you shouldn’t have to put out a lot of money to keep it running.
The biggest fault with the 2011 Scion tC is the ABS Inlet Valve Coil LF Circuit Short to Ground (C1201) code. This issue may be resolved with a new oxygen sensor, costing $153 to $306. There’s also the chance for the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (P0420) code, which could require a new catalytic converter costing $1,538 to $2,041. Beyond that, you may notice the Low Power Supply Voltage Malfunction (C1241) code.
There’s only one recall for the 2011 Scion tC, which is different since it’s the first in the generation.
FAQs
What years of the Scion tC have engine and/or transmission problems?
Based on data from RepairPal, all 12 model years can have an issue with excessive oil consumption. Sadly, a buildup of sludge can lead to worn piston rings. Additionally, the 1st generation models (2005-2010) can also struggle with a Check Engine Light due to a defective VVT-i controller, which handles the timing. However, many of these issues may have been repaired while the Scion was still covered by the powertrain warranty. We don’t see any indication of transmission faults among the Scion tC models.
What is considered high mileage for a Scion tC?
The Scion tC is a compact car, but it’s made by Toyota, which is one of the most reliable names in the auto industry. Therefore, if you keep the tC well-maintained, you have every reason to believe that it will last for 200,000 miles or more. Still, it’s difficult to know how long a tC will last unless you know how it has been driven and cared for.
Based on our data, a high-mileage Scion tC could be hitting the 175,000-mile mark or more with proper maintenance.
What other vehicles should I consider?
There are several other Scion models you may be interested in, such as the Scion xD, xB, xA, or iQ. There’s also the Scion iM or FR-S to consider. Of course, you could always jump over to the Toyota lineup as well, which would include the Corolla, GR86, or Supra models.
Outside of the lineup, consider the Honda Civic, Kia Soul, Volkswagen GTI, Chevrolet Cruze, or Kia Forte. There’s also the Ford Focus, Chevrolet Sonic, Subaru WRX, Hyundai Elantra, Volkswagen Golf, Hyundai Veloster, Subaru Impreza, and Nissan Sentra.
A Note About Data and Information Sources
This article has many details about Scion tC’s reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.
- FIXD Reliability Score & Data: Engine reliability information is captured via the FIXD App.
The FIXD Reliability Score is calculated using the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage using 12,000 per year. This is then turned into a scale of 1-10 for easy graphing.
This is an objective score.
- F.I.R.I.S & Data: This data is the result of averaging the score of the Scion tC from Edmunds, KBB, Cargurus, and Cars.com.
Those individual Scores come straight from reviewers and owners of the Scion tC.
This is a subjective score.
From here we translate the answers into the F.I.R.I.S as all the answers are out of 5.
Keep in mind, that owners may think their car is more or less reliable than it actually is.
One potential problem is that people often buy the same make or model they are used to when they go car shopping, just a newer year.
Ford, for instance, has a number of consumer loyalty awards for the Ford F-Series, Ford Mustang, and Ford Expedition.
Car owners may be so loyal to the make or model they currently own that they would have trouble accurately comparing their cars’ reliability to others.
It’s for this reason that we ask car owners a question that is relative to mileage rather than relative to other cars.
Still, be mindful of the accuracy of these F.I.R.I.S, people’s perceptions and unconscious blindspots can skew data.
We suggest looking at both the FIXD Reliability Score and the F.I.R.I.S for this reason.
- KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Scion tC with typical mileage for that respective model year.
- Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov
- Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by RepairPal
Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph.
References
- Scion tC, wikipedia.org. Retrieved October 9, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scion_tC
- Scion tC reviews, edmunds.com. Retrieved October 10, 2023, from https://www.edmunds.com/scion/tc/2016/review/
Brian Jones owns a used car dealership outside of Dallas, Texas. He has also worked for decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician for a variety of new car dealerships. Now he spends his time consulting dealerships and writing for some renowned publications, such as Motor1 (https://www.motor1.com/info/team/brian-jones/). When he’s not working, he’s tinkering around with pickup trucks and traveling with his family.
