2008 Scion tC

Introduction to the 2008 Scion tC

The 2008 Scion tC is a sporty coupe that offers a stylish design, a comfortable interior, and a variety of features. It is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-four engine that produces 161 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. Despite its affordability, the tC has received positive reviews for its handling, performance, and fuel efficiency. However, like any vehicle, it has also been reported to have some issues.

Engine

2.4L Inline-Four with Five-Speed Manual Transmission

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak: Oil leak from the valve cover gasket, causing a burning oil smell and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Inline-Four with Four-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Intake Valve Carbon Buildup: Carbon deposits accumulate on the intake valves, reducing engine performance and fuel efficiency.
  • Solution: Remove and clean intake valves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual Transmission

• Shifter Bushings Wear Out: Worn shifter bushings lead to loose or sloppy gear shifting.
  • Solution: Replace shifter bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Solenoid Failure: Malfunctioning transmission solenoid causes rough shifting, delayed engagement, or transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace transmission solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V551000

Suspension

• Strut Top Mounts Wear Out: Worn strut top mounts can cause a clunking noise when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Replace strut top mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Alternator failure can lead to battery discharge, dimming headlights, or engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain: Battery drains quickly due to parasitic draw from the electronic control module (ECM).
  • Solution: Reprogram ECM or replace battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Trunk Lid Insulation Falling Off: Insulation on the inside of the trunk lid may detach and fall off.
  • Solution: Reattach or replace trunk lid insulation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Handle Breakage: Interior door handle may break or become loose.
  • Solution: Replace door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure: Power window motor or regulator failure can cause the window to become stuck or inoperable.
  • Solution: Replace power window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2008 Scion tC has a few reported issues, but most of them are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. The most common engine issue is valve cover gasket leak, which can be resolved for around $400. The transmission issues are more severe, especially the solenoid failure in the automatic transmission, which may cost up to $500 to repair. Some electrical issues, such as alternator failure and battery drain, can also be costly. Exterior and interior problems are generally less severe and less expensive to address.