2004 Scion xB

Introduction

The 2004 Scion xB is a compact crossover SUV that was praised for its boxy design, spacious interior, and affordability. It was available with a single engine and transmission option: a 1.5-liter inline-4 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The engine produced 108 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque.

Engine

• 1.5L Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various places in the engine, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and timing chain cover. Symptoms include visible oil stains under the vehicle or on the engine components, low oil levels, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip or break. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, poor engine performance, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve cover gasket can leak oil, causing a burning oil smell and low oil levels. Symptoms include visible oil leaks around the valve cover and a drop in oil pressure.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip gears while driving, causing a loss of power or difficulty shifting. Symptoms include rough shifting, delayed engagement, and a burning smell.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Fluid Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: A transmission fluid leak can occur from various places in the transmission, including the pan gasket or torque converter seal. Symptoms include low transmission fluid levels, difficulty shifting, and slipping gears.
  • Solution: Repair the leak by replacing the faulty seal or gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The front strut mount can fail, causing a clunking noise when driving over bumps. Symptoms include a decrease in ride comfort, uneven tire wear, and misalignment.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical Short
  • Description/Symptoms: An electrical short can occur in various electrical components, causing electrical system malfunctions. Symptoms can vary depending on the location of the short.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the electrical short.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain prematurely due to a faulty electrical component or a parasitic draw. Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, dim lights, and a dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door handle may break or become loose, making it difficult to open or close the door. Symptoms include a stuck or rattling door handle.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control switch may fail, causing the climate control system to malfunction. Symptoms include difficulty adjusting temperature or fan speed, or the system not blowing air.
  • Solution: Replace the climate control switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
• Seat Belt Buckle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat belt buckle may fail to latch securely, causing the seat belt warning light to illuminate. Symptoms include a loose or unbuckled seat belt, and a warning light on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the seat belt buckle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2004 Scion xB is a reliable vehicle with relatively minor issues. The most common engine and transmission issues are oil leaks and slipping gears, but these are often affordable to repair. The electrical and suspension systems are generally reliable, but some electrical shorts and suspension mount failures have been reported. Interior issues primarily involve climate control switch failures and seat belt buckle failures. Exterior issues are limited to door handle failures.