2014 Scion tC

The 2014 Scion tC is a sporty coupe known for its reliability and affordability. It comes equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine producing 179 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the tC’s stylish design, comfortable ride, and ample cargo space for a coupe. Some common complaints include the lack of power compared to other sports coupes and the somewhat bland interior styling.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 (2AR-FE)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil frequently between oil changes. This can manifest as blue smoke from the exhaust, a burning oil smell, or low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: A revised piston and piston ring design may be necessary to address this issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ depending on the severity and repair shop.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the water pump area, overheating, and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (U760E)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting between gears, especially at lower speeds. Some owners also experience hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and fill. In some cases, valve body replacement or transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 for fluid flush, $800 - $1500 for valve body, $3000 - $5000+ for transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noise coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty pairing devices, dropped connections, or inability to access certain Bluetooth functions.
  • Solution: Updating the infotainment system software or replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200 for software updates (if available), $300 - $800+ for head unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may not open/close or seal properly.
  • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement or track repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, typically due to prolonged exposure to sunlight and heat.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover installation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ for dashboard replacement, $100 - $300 for dashboard cover.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Scion tC is a generally reliable vehicle. The most concerning issues revolve around potential engine oil consumption and transmission harshness, which can lead to costly repairs. Other reported problems with the suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior components are less severe but still worth noting, especially when evaluating a used model. Overall, potential buyers should inspect the vehicle thoroughly, paying close attention to the engine’s oil level and the transmission’s shifting behavior, and factor in the potential costs of repairs when making a purchase decision.