2006 Scion xB

The 2006 Scion xB is a compact, boxy wagon known for its quirky styling, practicality, and fuel efficiency. It came equipped with a 1.5-liter inline-4 engine producing 103 horsepower and 101 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the xB for its spacious interior, reliability, and ease of parking. Common complaints included its lack of power, especially at highway speeds, and its basic interior features.

Engine

1.5L 1NZ-FE Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported the 1.5L engine consuming excessive amounts of oil, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warning light, burning oil smell, and blueish smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings can resolve the issue. In more severe cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump can fail prematurely, leading to coolant leaks and overheating. Symptoms include coolant leaks near the water pump, engine overheating, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The oxygen sensor may fail, causing the engine to run poorly, reduce fuel economy, and trigger the check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported delayed or harsh shifting between gears, especially when cold. This may be due to wear in the transmission or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. In some cases, more extensive transmission repairs or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Coil Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear coil springs are prone to sagging over time, leading to a lower ride height and a harsher ride. In some cases, the springs can even break.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn strut mounts can cause clunking noises, especially when going over bumps. This can affect the vehicle’s handling.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts. Replacing the struts themselves at the same time is often recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power window motors can fail, causing the windows to stop working.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuators can fail, causing the door locks to become unreliable or stop working altogether.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Hatch/Rear Bumper
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the hatch or rear bumper, particularly in areas with harsh weather conditions.
  • Solution: Remove rust and repaint or replace affected parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking/Melting
  • Description/Symptoms: In hot climates, the dashboard can crack or develop a sticky, melting texture.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard (expensive) or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner adhesive can fail, causing the headliner to sag.
  • Solution: Replace or re-glue the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Scion xB is generally a reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues to be aware of. Engine issues such as excessive oil consumption and water pump failure can be costly to repair, while suspension issues like sagging coil springs can affect ride quality. Electrical issues with power windows and door locks are also relatively common. The dashboard issue can also be prevalent, with prices ranging from cheap solutions to very expensive. Overall, the xB offers good reliability but is not without its flaws, and careful inspection is advised before purchasing.