Scion IA Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your Scion iA and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Scion iA has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Scion iA has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a Scion iA

When faced with a check engine light in your Scion iA, the first step is to remain calm and assess the situation. Begin by checking your dashboard for any additional warning lights or gauges that may indicate more serious issues, such as low oil pressure or overheating, which require immediate attention. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that can provide insight into the specific problems triggering the light. Common culprits include ignition system failures or issues with the exhaust gas oxygen sensor, which can lead to engine misfires. After identifying the codes, start with the simplest fixes, such as checking gas cap tightness or replacing spark plugs, before moving on to more complex diagnostics like inspecting the ignition cylinder or emission system. If the problem persists or seems beyond your expertise, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance, as many auto parts stores offer free diagnostic services. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and maintain your vehicle's performance.

What Could Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a Scion iA?

When the check engine light comes on in a Scion iA, it can be indicative of several common problems that DIYers should be aware of. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can lead to poor fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Additionally, issues with the emissions system, such as a malfunctioning catalytic converter or other related components, can also trigger the light. Drivers may notice symptoms like engine hesitation, misfiring, or rough performance, which can stem from ignition cylinder problems or a failing exhaust gas oxygen sensor. It's also worth checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap can disrupt fuel system pressure and illuminate the check engine light. By understanding these common issues, DIY enthusiasts can take the first steps toward diagnosing and potentially resolving the problem, ensuring their Scion iA runs smoothly.

Why is the Check Engine Light On in a Scion iA?

When the Check Engine Light activates in your Scion iA, it’s crucial to understand that this warning is not just a minor inconvenience; it signals potential issues that could escalate into serious problems if left unaddressed. Ignoring the light can lead to significant damage to your vehicle, such as a failing catalytic converter or a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, which can affect your car's performance and fuel efficiency. Moreover, some issues may pose safety risks, like ignition cylinder problems that can cause irregular engine running, leading to dangerous driving conditions. Therefore, it’s essential to diagnose the underlying cause of the Check Engine Light as soon as possible. By doing so, you not only protect your vehicle from further damage but also ensure your safety on the road. Taking a proactive approach to this warning can save you time and money in the long run, making it a vital step for any DIY car owner.

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