2011 Scion tC

The 2011 Scion tC is a sporty coupe known for its affordability and practicality. It came with a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine producing 180 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the tC’s sleek styling, comfortable interior, and reliable performance. Common dislikes include the lack of available performance upgrades from the factory, and some interior materials.

Engine

2.5L 2AR-FE Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, blue smoke from the exhaust (in severe cases), and the need to add oil more frequently than normal.
  • Solution: A revised piston ring design addresses this issue in later model years (specifically 2015+). For earlier models, the repair usually involves replacing the piston rings. Some have had luck with heavier weight oil, but this is not a recommended fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump can fail prematurely, leading to coolant leaks, engine overheating, and potential engine damage. Symptoms include a coolant leak near the water pump, an engine overheating warning light, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or delayed shifting, particularly between certain gears. This can manifest as a “clunking” sound or a noticeable hesitation during acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and software update can resolve the issue. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A common complaint involves noise (clunking or squeaking) coming from the rear strut mounts, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the rear strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent problems with the factory Bluetooth system, including difficulty pairing devices, dropped connections, and distorted audio.
  • Solution: Updating the head unit software may resolve the issue. In some cases, the head unit itself may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $500+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• TPMS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors can fail, triggering a warning light on the dashboard even when tire pressures are correct.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty TPMS sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per sensor+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof can become stuck, not open or close properly, or make unusual noises while operating. Can also leak water.
  • Solution: Inspect sunroof for debris, check the sunroof motor and rail system for damage. Depending on the damage, the entire system may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cleaning rails) - $1,000+ (sunroof motor/assembly replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or warping of the dashboard, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard is the most common fix, but can be expensive. A dashboard cover is a less expensive alternative.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (dashboard cover) - $1,500+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Scion tC, while generally reliable, has some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The most significant concern is the potential for excessive oil consumption in the 2.5L engine, which can lead to costly repairs. Other common issues include water pump failure, transmission problems, and various electrical glitches. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly. While the T-SB to check for excessive oil consumption expired in 2016, the issue may still be present with some vehicles.