2016 Scion tC

The 2016 Scion tC is a sporty coupe known for its reliability, affordability, and practicality. It comes equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine producing 179 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the tC’s comfortable ride, spacious interior for a coupe, and its Toyota reliability. Common complaints revolve around the somewhat bland styling, lack of advanced features compared to newer models, and average fuel economy for its class.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 (2AR-FE)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can manifest as blue smoke from the exhaust, a burning oil smell, or low oil level warnings.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings can address the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ depending on the severity and shop rates.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover onto the engine block, often causing a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Aisin U760E)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing hard or jerky shifts, particularly between certain gears. This can be more noticeable when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid change may help alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, valve body repair or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 for fluid change, $500 - $1500+ for valve body repair/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Often more noticeable in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent Bluetooth pairing, dropping connections, or difficulty recognizing devices.
  • Solution: Updating the head unit software (if available) or replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software update (if available), $200 - $600+ for head unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing in the dashboard, often around the passenger airbag area, due to sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ for dashboard replacement, $20 - $100 for a dashboard cover.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Scion tC is a generally reliable vehicle, but some owners have reported issues with excessive oil consumption, valve cover gasket leaks, harsh shifting in the automatic transmission, rear strut mount noise, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and dashboard cracking. The severity of these issues varies, with oil consumption and transmission problems potentially leading to more costly repairs. The average cost to repair these issues can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for more significant repairs.