2009 Scion xB

The 2009 Scion xB is a compact, boxy wagon known for its spacious interior and quirky styling. It came with one engine option, a 2.4-liter inline-4 producing 158 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise its cargo capacity, reliability, and unique design. Common complaints include the car’s boxy shape leading to higher wind noise and the fuel economy not being as good as expected for a compact car.

Engine

2.4L 2AZ-FE Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2009 Scion xB models (primarily those built prior to August 2009) may experience excessive oil consumption. Symptoms include the need to frequently add oil between oil changes, blue exhaust smoke, and potential engine damage if the oil level gets too low. This is most often caused by piston ring failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the pistons and piston rings with an updated design to address the oil consumption issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light and Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the check engine light illuminating and engine misfires, especially around the 100,000-mile mark. The code is often related to ignition coils.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of harsh or jerky shifting, especially between 1st and 2nd gear, or when downshifting. This can sometimes be related to worn transmission fluid or a failing solenoid.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush may resolve minor issues. However, if the problem persists, solenoid replacement or a transmission rebuild/replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noticed that the rear suspension can sag over time, especially if the vehicle is frequently loaded with cargo. This is caused by worn rear springs.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows, particularly the driver’s side, may stop working or function intermittently. This is often due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuators, especially on the driver’s side door, can fail causing the door not to lock or unlock with the remote or switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop around the wheel wells, door seams, and undercarriage, especially in areas with harsh winter conditions and road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair, which may involve sanding, filling, and painting. In severe cases, panel replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can be prone to cracking, particularly in areas with high sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ for a cover, $500-$2000 for replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2009 Scion xB is generally a reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues to be aware of. The most significant issues are excessive oil consumption in early production models and potential problems with the automatic transmission. Electrical issues such as power window and door lock actuator failures are also not uncommon. Suspension sagging and dashboard cracking are other concerns that buyers should inspect. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, engine or transmission work can be costly. Overall, a pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended to identify any potential problems before purchasing a used 2009 Scion xB.