2006 Scion tC

The 2006 Scion tC is a sporty, compact coupe known for its reliability and value. It came with a single engine option, the 2.4-liter 2AZ-FE inline-4, producing 160 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praise the tC for its spacious interior, sporty handling, and Toyota reliability. Common complaints include road noise and a somewhat basic interior.

Engine

2.4L 2AZ-FE I4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2006 Scion tC owners have reported excessive oil consumption, where the engine burns through oil at a faster rate than normal. Symptoms include needing to add oil frequently between changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potentially engine knocking or failure if the oil level gets too low.
  • Solution: A common fix is to replace the piston rings with an updated design. In severe cases, the entire engine may need to be replaced or rebuilt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• VVTi Gear Bolt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The VVTi gear bolt can break and cause engine failure. Symptoms include loud knocking or rattling.
  • Solution: Replace the VVTi gear bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of hard or jerky shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear, or when shifting into reverse.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush with the correct Toyota WS fluid might resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement, or a full transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the rear strut mounts. Symptoms include clunking noises from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. The rear of the car may feel loose or unstable.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear strut mounts. It’s recommended to replace them in pairs for even performance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sunroof Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck or operate intermittently due to a failing motor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sunroof motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use.
  • Solution: Test the charging system and inspect it for parasitic draws.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Hatch
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust bubbles and perforation appearing around the rear hatch, especially near the license plate lights and handle.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body filler, and repainting the affected area. In severe cases, the entire hatch may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear in the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Scion tC is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues like excessive oil consumption and rear strut mount failure. While some repairs like replacing strut mounts are relatively inexpensive, engine repairs related to oil consumption can be quite costly. Checking for rust, testing the sunroof and A/C, and ensuring smooth shifting are good steps when considering purchasing a used 2006 Scion tC.