2010 Scion xB

The 2010 Scion xB is a compact boxy wagon known for its spacious interior and unique styling. It came equipped with a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine producing 158 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the xB’s practicality and cargo space, while some dislike its fuel economy and somewhat sluggish acceleration. Common criticisms also include road noise and the basic interior appointments.

Engine

2.4L 2AZ-FE Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The 2.4L engine in the 2010 Scion xB is known to have excessive oil consumption issues. This can be caused by piston ring failure leading to oil leaking into the combustion chamber. Symptoms include needing to add oil frequently between changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine damage if oil levels are not maintained.
  • Solution: The most effective solution is often an engine rebuild with updated piston rings. Some owners have tried using thicker oil or oil additives as a temporary measure, but this is not a permanent fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear, or when downshifting. This can be caused by worn valve body components or issues with the solenoids.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush may alleviate the issue, but often the valve body needs to be replaced or rebuilt. Replacing the solenoids could also fix the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported premature failure of the rear wheel bearings. Symptoms include a humming or grinding noise from the rear of the vehicle that increases with speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected wheel bearing(s) is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Radio Display Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory radio display can fail, resulting in a blank screen or flickering display. This can affect the ability to see information like the time, radio station, or CD track.
  • Solution: Replacement of the radio unit is typically the only solution. Some owners attempt to repair the display, but this is often a temporary fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ depending on aftermarket vs. OEM and installation costs
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Door Lock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of one or more power door locks. This may require manual locking/unlocking of doors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Hatch/Rear Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust develops on the rear hatch or rear quarter panels, especially in areas with road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, body filler, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Driver’s Seat Track Looseness
  • Description/Symptoms: The driver’s seat track can become loose, resulting in excessive movement or rocking of the seat.
  • Solution: Replacing the seat track or welding to reinforce the existing track.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight and heat.
  • Solution: Replacement of the entire dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Scion xB, while praised for its practicality and unique design, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most significant is the potential for excessive oil consumption in the 2.4L engine. Other issues like harsh shifting in the automatic transmission, rear wheel bearing failure, and electrical problems with the radio or door locks are also worth noting. While not all vehicles will experience these problems, being informed can help buyers make a better decision and budget for potential repairs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to potentially costly repairs, making pre-purchase inspections and a thorough maintenance history review crucial.