2013 Scion tC

The 2013 Scion tC is a sporty, front-wheel-drive coupe powered by a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine producing 180 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the tC’s sleek styling, roomy interior for a coupe, and Toyota reliability. Some common dislikes include the lack of a more powerful engine option and somewhat numb steering feel.

Engine

2.5L 2AR-FE Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, particularly at higher mileage. Symptoms include needing to add oil more frequently than expected and potential engine damage if oil levels are not maintained.
  • Solution: Regular oil level checks and potential replacement of piston rings or valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Water pumps can fail prematurely, leading to overheating. Symptoms include coolant leaks, a whining noise from the engine, and a rising temperature gauge.
  • Solution: Water pump replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Aisin U760E)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between certain gears. This may be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and fill can alleviate the problem. In more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $1,500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, intermittent disconnections, or poor audio quality through the Bluetooth system.
  • Solution: Software update for the head unit or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (update) - $500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof won’t close or open, is stuck open or closed, or makes a grinding noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of sunroof motor or assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, often due to sun exposure and temperature changes.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Scion tC has a mix of relatively minor and more significant potential issues. The most concerning are excessive oil consumption and potential automatic transmission problems, which can lead to expensive repairs. Other issues, such as water pump failure and suspension noise, are less severe but still require attention. Overall, while the tC is generally reliable, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have a pre-purchase inspection performed.