2005 Scion tC

The 2005 Scion tC is a sporty, front-wheel-drive coupe powered by a 2.4-liter inline-four engine (2AZ-FE) producing 160 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. It was offered with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. People generally like the tC for its sporty styling, reliability, and affordability. Common dislikes include the relatively harsh ride, limited rear visibility, and basic interior materials.

Engine

2.4L 2AZ-FE Inline-Four

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This issue tends to arise with higher mileage. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, blue exhaust smoke, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Some owners have had success with switching to a heavier weight oil. In more severe cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, leading to a burning oil smell and potential oil drips on the exhaust manifold.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. This can lead to timing chain slack and potential engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and potentially the timing chain itself.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between gears 2 and 3.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and filter change can alleviate the issue. In other cases, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $1,500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. This is caused by wear or failure of the strut mounts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per pair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear-end instability, especially during cornering or braking. Noise from the rear suspension area. Visual inspection may reveal cracked or torn bushings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear trailing arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Driver’s Side Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The driver’s side power window stops working or works intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Combination Meter (Instrument Cluster) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent flickering or dimming of the instrument cluster lights, or complete failure of the cluster.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the combination meter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Spoiler Cracking/Fading
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory-installed rear spoiler, if equipped, is prone to cracking or fading due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the spoiler or cosmetic repair (painting).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sun Visor Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The sun visors tend to sag and eventually break at the hinge point.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sun visors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per visor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Lid Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The latch that secures the center console lid breaks, preventing it from staying closed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the center console lid or repair of the latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Scion tC, while generally reliable, does have some common issues. The most significant concerns revolve around potential engine issues such as oil consumption and timing chain tensioner failure, which can lead to costly repairs. Suspension and electrical problems are also relatively frequent. While some issues are minor and inexpensive to fix, others require more extensive repairs. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchasing, particularly checking for signs of excessive oil consumption or suspension noise.