Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Scion
Scion Models:
Scion Problems
Check Engine Light Due to Defective VVT-i Controller
An illuminated Check Engine Light could be caused by a defective VVT-i controller, which changes cam timing for optimal power. Updated parts are available and the repair may be covered under the powertrain warranty.
Squeaking Noise When Applying Brakes in Reverse
When backing up and applying the brakes, you may hear a squeaking noise. Scion engineers addressed this problem by modifying the shape of the brake pad and the anti-squeal shims; they also applied more grease during assembly.
Abnormal Noise or Vibration on Acceleration
An abnormal noise or vibration on acceleration from rest or on gear shift may develop. Our technicians tell us a redesigned left side engine mount insulator is available to address this problem.
Brief Knocking or Rattle on Cold Start Up
Some engines may experience a brief knocking or rattle on cold start up. Our technicians tell us replacing the camshaft timing gear assembly with upgraded parts will generally correct this concern.
Water Leak Due to Plugged AC Drain
The AC evaporator drain hose may become dislodged and cause a water leak on the passenger floor.
Scion Recalls (Recent)
Certain Airbags May Not Deploy as Expected
On 133 vehicles, certain airbag inflators were assembled with an insufficient amount of the heating agents necessary for proper airbag deployment. In the event of a crash, if the airbag does not deploy as expected, the risk of injury will increase. Dealers will replace only the suspect airbags to correct this concern. The Toyota recall number is 60B. The Lexus recall number is 6LB.
Scion tCSide Airbags Could Inadvertently Deploy
The side impact airbags may inadvertently deploy. This can occur if a door is closed with excessive force while the ignition is on or within 90 seconds of turning the ignition off. Personal injury could occur to an occupant seated where the airbags deploy. Dealers will replace the two side impact airbag sensors and install a urethane pad in the front doors to correct this concern. This recall is expected to begin on November 6, 2006. The Toyota recall number is SCC 60H.
Scion tCSunroof Wind Deflector May Shatter
The glass sunroof wind deflector may shatter if impacted by a projectile such as road debris and separate from the frame. Pieces of the broken deflector may fall on the vehicle occupants, causing driver distraction and/or injury. Dealers will install a protective laminate to the wind deflector to prevent pieces of glass from separating from the frame. This recall began on October 27, 2005. The Scion recall number is 50S.
Scion tCCertain Cruise Controls May Not Deactivate Properly
Certain Scion vehicles sold from Gulf States Toyota and Southeast Toyota with Rostra cruise control may have a problem where the cruise control does not release the throttle the first time the on/off switch is pressed. If the throttle is not released when needed, a crash could occur. The vehicle manufacturers will notify owners and replace the cruise control free of charge. Rostra will notify purchasers of the aftermarket cruise controls and replace the units free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2007.
Scion xA, Scion xBAftermarket Cruise Control May Not Disengage as Expected
Some aftermarket cruise control systems installed for Southeast Toyota may not allow the engine to return to idle the first time the on/off switch is depressed while the system is engaged. The system will commonly disengage on the second attempt. This could result in higher that expected engine speed, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect and replace the cruise control module as necessary. This recall is expected to begin on March 7, 2007. The Gulf States Toyota recall number is P701.
Scion xA, Scion xBScion Questions and Answers
My CD keeps freezing and saying ERROR 4 what does this mean? I have used a CD Cleaning Disc and I am playing the proper CD's it happens even with brand new CD's and when the ERROR 4 comes...
My brand new CD's get stuck in the player and the screen says ERROR 4. I have cleaned the player with a CD Cleaner Disc and when I shut down the player and use it another day it is fine. I kn...
I just got an estimate to replace the Blower Motor on my 04 Scion xA and was quoted $1100, but the estimator tool on RepairPal is suggesting a range of 178-205. It suggests a labor price of 49-62....
Is it expected that, in addition to the regular service, I would need my brake fluid flushed (says there is H20 in my brake fluid) a new cabin filter and a belt replacement? The special price weeke...
Has anyone had an issue filling the gas tank? This weekend I stopped to fill up and the gas nozzle kept cuttting off like the tank was full
Scion Owners' Reviews
I like the Scion for 2 or 3 people. Truck space is a pain. Can't stand a wheel chair up in back. Interior is a little cheap. Gas average is 30 to 34 miles, not to good for the sacrifice of a small car. It is bumpy to ride on rough roads. It is easy to drive and move around. This car would be ideal for a college kid driving to school. We traveled from Florida to Pa. with three 10 to 13 year old kids. We made it with one bag apiece and pillow. I will not do that again. I would do it with at the most 3 people.... I now have 50,000 miles without problems. I do now have a master brake problem. I will buy a car with more trunk space after this one. Probably a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry and or keep the Scion for a second car. The gas savings isn't worth the comfort. I am 73 yrs. old and need the trunk space for our 102 year old mother's wheel chair. Ha!!!!! But true!!
Bought this car in 2007 with 20k miles on it, and it now has 100,000k miles and have never had any major problems with it. The only issues that I've had are instances such as interior console lights "burning" out and my power door locks failing, but then working again, and then not working again, all on their own. Sometimes my interior vent fans just don't turn on, and my radio freezes up. I believe my car has some interior electrical shorts and issues because of these problems. My sunroof will randomly get stuck open, and there is no manual way to close it. My key has fallen apart to shreds, and the unlock button is gone. Also, around 90k miles, I began to notice a creaking/ grinding noise coming from the front suspension. I have had this checked out by the dealer, and was told there were no issues, but the noise has gotten substantially worse. THIS CAR EATS THROUGH TIRES! This is the other area of grip I have with this car. Because you can only put low profile tires on it, there is very little grip during any type of rain (forget about driving in snow), and the tires do not last long at all. I can get 30k miles out of one set if I'm lucky. I'm on my 4th set of tires since I bought the car! My last set, I drove them down until the steel belts were fraying out of the sides (by complete accident). The interior has held up very well, with the occasional scratch here and there, a loose panel every once in a while, but they pop right back in. Otherwise, the engine and transmission have been great! Gas mileage leaves something to be desired for such a small car, but it's not terrible. Excluding tires, this car is affordable to maintain, and I would recommend it to someone who is not bothered by constant tire purchases.
I have had my Scion now since April of 2008, with only 42000 miles and have had no issues thus far. I have recently experienced a rumbling sound when shifting from park to reverse. I brought it in and after diagnoses, was told that the trans axle had loosened up. The tech said that nothing was damaged and that they could push it back into place and re tighten. Now every time I go over a bump it sounds like its hitting the bottom of my car, a loud thump and you can feel on the floor when this happens, the same kind of thump when a strut goes
I bought my brand new 2006 Scion xA, 10/11 in N.M. After driving pick ups it was quite the change. The best one I've ever made. With 80,000 miles plus, I've only replaced the belts, front brakes and of course new tires. It runs like a champ and gets around 36mpg. If at some point I need to buy another car, it will be a Scion. Easy to drive, has plenty of power for a 4-banger and hauled 2 dogs around quite comfortably, with the seats down. Interior is easy to keep and still looks wonderful. Thank you Toyota for making such a reliable car. Kathy D. Whitesboro,Tx.
Great car only problem was hit a pot hole at 45mph and tore up my upper and lower controll arms, hub, crossmember, tie rod, and the A-frame... but good car none the less