2013 Scion iQ

Posted Mar 30, 2024

By Research the Car 5 min read

Introduction The 2013 Scion iQ is a subcompact hatchback that offers a unique blend of practicality and fuel efficiency. It features a 1.3L inline-four engine paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). With just 94 horsepower and 89 lb-ft of torque, the iQ is not particularly powerful, but it boasts an impressive 37 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Despite its compact size, the iQ offers a surprisingly spacious interior and a long list of standard features, making it a popular choice for urban commuters. However, like any vehicle, the iQ has its share of issues.

Engine

1.3L Inline-Four Engine
- Intake Valve Carbon Buildup
  - Description/Symptoms: Accumulation of carbon deposits on intake valves can lead to rough idling, decreased performance, and increased fuel consumption.
  - Solution: Cleaning the intake valves involves removing the intake manifold and manually cleaning the valves.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  - Recalls: None Found
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  - Description/Symptoms: A faulty timing chain tensioner can cause the timing chain to skip or break, resulting in catastrophic engine damage.
  - Solution: Replacing the timing chain and tensioner requires significant labor and expertise.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  - Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission
- Clutch Disc Failure
  - Description/Symptoms: A worn clutch disc can cause difficulty shifting gears, slipping, or shuddering.
  - Solution: Replacing the clutch disc requires removing the transmission and replacing the affected components.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  - Recalls: None Found
- Synchronizer Failure
  - Description/Symptoms: Worn synchronizers can make shifting gears difficult, especially when downshifting.
  - Solution: Replacing synchronizers involves disassembling the transmission.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  - Recalls: None Found
CVT
- CVT Control Module Failure
  - Description/Symptoms: A malfunctioning CVT control module can lead to erratic gear shifting, loss of power, or even complete transmission failure.
  - Solution: Replacing the CVT control module requires specialized tools and expertise.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  - Recalls: None Found
- CVT Valve Body Failure
  - Description/Symptoms: A faulty CVT valve body can cause similar symptoms as a CVT control module failure, including gear shifting problems and loss of power.
  - Solution: Replacing the CVT valve body requires removing the transmission.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  - Recalls: None Found

Suspension

Front MacPherson Struts
- Strut Mount Failure
  - Description/Symptoms: Worn strut mounts can lead to excessive noise, vibration, and decreased handling.
  - Solution: Replacing strut mounts is relatively straightforward and involves removing the strut assembly.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  - Recalls: None Found
- Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  - Description/Symptoms: Worn lower control arm bushings can cause a rattling noise, decreased ride quality, and premature tire wear.
  - Solution: Replacing lower control arm bushings requires removing the control arm and pressing in new bushings.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  - Recalls: None Found
Rear Torsion Beam Axle
- Torsion Beam Bushings
  - Description/Symptoms: Worn torsion beam bushings can cause a variety of symptoms, including excessive noise, vibration, and decreased handling.
  - Solution: Replacing torsion beam bushings requires removing the axle and replacing the affected bushings.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  - Recalls: None Found

Electrical

Battery
- Battery Drain
  - Description/Symptoms: A parasitic draw on the battery can lead to a dead battery, especially after the vehicle has been parked for an extended period.
  - Solution: Diagnosing and repairing a battery drain can be time-consuming and may require the expertise of a qualified technician.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  - Recalls: None Found
Alternator
- Alternator Failure
  - Description/Symptoms: A faulty alternator can lead to various electrical issues, including difficulty starting the vehicle, dim headlights, and battery drain.
  - Solution: Replacing an alternator involves removing the old unit and replacing it with a new one.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  - Recalls: None Found
Starter
- Starter Failure
  - Description/Symptoms: A faulty starter can prevent the engine from starting or may cause the engine to crank slowly.
  - Solution: Replacing a starter requires removing the old unit and installing a new one.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  - Recalls: None Found

Exterior

Headlights
- Headlight Condensation
  - Description/Symptoms: Condensation inside the headlight lens can occur due to moisture buildup, causing poor illumination.
  - Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly or resealing the existing one can resolve the issue.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  - Recalls: None Found
Body Panels
- Premature Rust
  - Description/Symptoms: Some Scion iQ models may experience premature rust on body panels, especially in areas prone to moisture and salt exposure.
  - Solution: Rust repair and prevention can involve removing the affected panels, cleaning them, and applying anti-rust treatments.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the severity of rust
  - Recalls: None Found

Interior

Dashboard
- Dashboard Rattle
  - Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise or vibration from the dashboard can be caused by loose panels or components.
  - Solution: Disassembling the dashboard and tightening or replacing the affected parts can resolve the rattle.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  - Recalls: None Found
Seats
- Seat Cushion Sagging
  - Description/Symptoms: The seat cushions may develop sagging over time, reducing support and comfort.
  - Solution: Replacing the seat foam or adding additional padding can improve seat support.
  - Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  - Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2013 Scion iQ offers a unique combination of practicality and fuel efficiency. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of issues, ranging from minor inconveniences to more severe and costly problems. The most common issues reported by owners include carbon buildup on intake valves, cvt problems, timing chain tensioner failure, and premature rust. The cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the severity of the issue and the location of the repair. It is important to consider these potential issues when evaluating the Scion iQ as a potential purchase.

Scion, iQ

Scion iQ 2013

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