2013 Scion TC

Recalls

1 recall names the 2013 Scion TC. Newest first.

• Service brakes, hydraulic

  Sep 20, 2018NHTSA 18E091000544 vehiclesEquipment

  Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain Toyota Racing Development (TRD) brake kits, part numbers PTR09-21111 and PTR09-52080, sold by Toyota as an optional accessory for model year 2008-2015 Scion xB, and 2011-2016 Scion tC vehicles. Over time, the brake hoses in these kits may fatigue and fail.

  Risk and remedy

  Risk

  Failure of a brake hose will reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.

  Remedy

  Toyota will notify all known owners of the Scion xB and Scion tC vehicles upon which an involved optional TRD Brake Kit could have been installed. If the vehicle is equipped with one of the TRD brake kits, it will be replaced with a standard equipment brake kit, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2018. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's number for this recall is J0U.

  Full recall details →

Owner complaints

What owners report most

1. Power train3
2. Service brakes3
3. Air bags2
4. Visibility/wiper1
5. Structure1
6. Unknown or other1
7. Visibility1

Latest complaints

• Jul 11, 2025CA
  Service brakes
  UNKNOWN. I was unaware of my car's recall notice. I had known only when my car's regular smog check was due. The problem that my car may have had not been confirmed by dealer or independent service center nor has it been inspected by manufacturer, police, or others. There are also no warning lamps…

  UNKNOWN. I was unaware of my car's recall notice. I had known only when my car's regular smog check was due. The problem that my car may have had not been confirmed by dealer or independent service center nor has it been inspected by manufacturer, police, or others. There are also no warning lamps or messages of the problem. However, there are symptoms like pushing the brakes when driving my car and it squeaks. I had installed new brake pads over 2 years ago. I don't know why it continues to squeak when I am pushing the brakes.

• Dec 10, 2020NC125,000 mi
  Power train
  TL* the contact owns a 2013 scion tc. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle's engine just cut off. The contact was able to restart the vehicle but could only shift into the first gear and slowly pull over into a parking lot. There was no acceleration with the vehicle moving only about…

  TL* the contact owns a 2013 scion tc. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle's engine just cut off. The contact was able to restart the vehicle but could only shift into the first gear and slowly pull over into a parking lot. There was no acceleration with the vehicle moving only about 10 mph with the vehicle's manual transmission. The vehicle was able to be driven to a nearby relative's house at about 15 mph. The contact had spoken to an independent mechanic and was told the issue was most likely was with the transmission. The dealer or manufacturer had not been contacted yet. The vehicle was unrepaired. The failure mileage was 125,000.

• Mar 9, 2019HI
  Service brakes

  Did not get notified of the recall for my vehicle.

• Jan 4, 2019TX80,000 miCrash3 injuries
  Air bags
  I was turning into a busy shopping center at 5ISH pm and the sun was directly in my eyes and I swerved to avoid a collision with another motorist who was in the middle of the exiting /entrance lane and I ran head on into a solid cement pillar light pole , estimated mph was 20 -25 mph , I was…

  I was turning into a busy shopping center at 5ISH pm and the sun was directly in my eyes and I swerved to avoid a collision with another motorist who was in the middle of the exiting /entrance lane and I ran head on into a solid cement pillar light pole , estimated mph was 20 -25 mph , I was wearing seatbelt and none of the front airbags deployed and I have broke ribs and possible fractured sternum, I hit my head on windshield and cracked windshield and had a knot the size of a baseball , I'm seeing a doctor tomorrow to determine exact extent of injuries but photos of my car will show the force of impact and no airbags deployed , these photos were take by a authorized gm dealers collision repair shop

• Apr 11, 2018AK66,000 mi
  Power train

  Vehicle has 66444 miles and throw out bearing / input shaft IS making noise

• Mar 4, 2018OH60,000 mi
  Visibility › Sun/moon roof assembly

  Secondary sunroof exploded while driving down the highway at 70mph. Random explosion that sounded like a gun shot. sunny and 45 degree weather in central ohio

• Oct 2, 2015TX38,500 miCrash
  Air bags · Service brakes

  Break failure led to accident in which the airbags did not deploy. Officer on the scene informed the when the vehicles crunch zone IS enabled that airbags should deploy to avoid injuries of any passenger or driver. When applying the brakes, the pedal vibrated vigorously thus not slowing the vehicle down to avoid a collision.

• Jul 15, 2015UT14,000 mi
  Structure › Body · Unknown or other · Visibility/wiper
  A few days ago, we were driving when our sun roof exploded. We heard the loudest bang I have heard and then glass started falling through the edges of the sun shade that was closed. Had it not been for the sun shade, I am sure we would have been showered with glass shards, and there IS no doubt…

  A few days ago, we were driving when our sun roof exploded. We heard the loudest bang I have heard and then glass started falling through the edges of the sun shade that was closed. Had it not been for the sun shade, I am sure we would have been showered with glass shards, and there IS no doubt that we would have wrecked the car. When we pulled over the moon roof was obviously blown outward, which I have pictures of. After a brief research I found that this issue was a common one. When my wife called toyota the first guy said he had seen this before, but toyota would not cover it under the extra bump to bumper warranty, we bought. Toyota referred me to the toll free number (1-800-331-4331) to lodge a complaint and see if they could do anything. Toyota gave me a case number (1507133039) and said someone from customer relations would be calling me back. The guy that called me back was dennis king from the toyota dealership in riverdale, utah where we first called, and he said he couldn't do anything that it would have to be toyota that authorizes any repair. I have included just a few of the web links that discuss the issue of exploding moon roofs. http://www.wjla.com/articles/2014/07/7-on-your-side-exploding-sunroofs-are-more-common-than-you-might-think-105226.html . http://www.usglassmag.com/agrr/backissues/2013/januaryfebruary/playingsherlock__feature.htm http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/shattered-glass-sunroof--293692881.html

• Dec 7, 2012NC2,500 mi
  Power train

  TL* the contact owns a 2013 toyota sion tc. The contact stated that when using reverse or first gear, the vehicle would emit an abnormal whining sound. The contact spoke to the manufacturer about the problem and was told that the sound was a normal occurrence of the vehicle. The manufacturer provided no further assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 2,500.

Service bulletins

Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.

• 10200383Automatic/Continuously Variable Transmission Replacement Precautions
• 10200379Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset
• 10185779TT: HVAC drain tube is found to be blocked/clogged.
• 10178780DL: Toyota plans to send Safety Recall Follow-Up Notices for the above referenced campaigns to remind owners whose vehicles have not yet had campaign repairs completed.
• 10170191TSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE December 20, 2019: This bulletin is no longer applicable and is now obsolete.
• 10152156TSB: REVISION NOTICE August 23, 2017 Rev1: ? Applicability has been updated to include 2015 model year xB vehicles, 2015 ? 2016 model year tC vehicles, and 2016 model year iM vehicles. ? The Parts Information section has been updated. Any previous printed versions of this bulletin should be discarded. Introduction. Some vehicles in particular geographic areas may exhibit a condition where the HVAC Evaporator Drain Hose has become obstructed with an insect nest. An insect repellent drain hose tip (ARINIX Tip) is now available to help minimize future occurrences of this environmental condition. For some models, a new drain hose is required to properly fit the ARINIX Tip.
• 10134472SB: Flash reprogramming allows the ECU software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprogramming process and outlines use of the Technical Information System (TIS) and the Calibration Update Wizard (CUW). Flash calibration updates can only be applied to the vehicle/ECU combination for which they are intended. ECUs have internal security that will not allow them to be programmed with another ECU?s information.
• 10134471SSB: Scion models equipped with the BeSpoke Premium Audio featuring Aha? require a Special Service Tool (SST) USB drive to update the map, points of interest, Gracenote, and system software. The SST is used with all vehicles to deliver the update, however a unique Activation Number is required for each vehicle. Activation Numbers are provided in an Activation Card Number (ACN) pamphlet available through the normal parts ordering system. Use the process described in this bulletin to perform the update. NOTE-Map data will be released annually through the shipment of a Special Service Tool USB drive to each dealer. The SST must be stored in the SST cabinet to ensure it can be easily found.
• 10133921Scion vehicles are equipped with SRS, including various airbags and in some models, seat belt pre-tensioners, to help reduce the risk of injury in a collision. If a customer expresses any concerns that the SRS airbags or pretensioner devices did not perform as expected, please follow the steps in the recommendations section below.
• 10133920Some 2011-2013 Scion tCs may exhibit the following conditions; speedometer inoperative or speedometer needle caught/stuck, while all other meter functions work normally.
• 10133919Starting with the 2010 model year, Scion began a gradual transition to the use of synthetic 0w-20 viscosity engine oil.
• 10133905Flash reprogramming allows the ECU software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprograming process and outlines use of the TIS and the CUW.
• 10133902When servicing interior electrical switches and components, please note the precautions in this bulletin to avoid damaging electrical components and switches. Many lubricants, cleaners, and automotive chemicals contain silicone or other compounds that may contaminate electrical contacts, and therefore increase electrical resistance and decrease switch performance. The use of any cleaners or fluids may increase the rick of further damage to electrical components.
• 10133843Some customers may inquire about the frequency and power output of the Smart Key/Smart Entry systems used on various models. The Smart Key/Smart Entry systems conform to all applicable FCC rules. This bulletin details the applicable specifications for these systems.
• 10133842Some 2011 ? 2013 model year Scion tC vehicles equipped with a manual transmission may exhibit a growling or rattle noise from the transmission area when the clutch pedal is released. Changes have been made to the input shaft rear bearing. Follow the procedure in this bulletin to address this condition.
• 10133759Some vehicles in particular geographic areas may exhibit a condition where the HVAC Evaporator Drain Hose has become obstructed with an insect nest. An insect repellent drain hose tip (ARINIX Tip) is now available to help minimize future occurrences of this environmental condition. For some models, a new drain hose is required to properly fit the ARINIX Tip. Follow the procedures in this bulletin for proper handling and installation of this optional service part.
• 10133756Some 2013 ? 2014 model year FR-S vehicles may exhibit multiple concerns from the Outer Weatherstrip (belt molding). The cross section of the weatherstrip has been revised to limit the amount of water passing into the door. If the felt attached to the window stabilizers/guides accumulate water, the vehicle may also make noise from the stabilizers/guides during window operation. In some cases, the felt on the stabilizers/guides may freeze to the window or detach from the plastic backing and damage the window.
• 10133702Some vehicles in particular geographic areas may exhibit a condition where the HVAC Evaporator Drain Hose has become obstructed with an insect nest. An insect repellent drain hose tip (ARINIX Tip) is now available to help minimize future occurrences of this environmental condition. For some models, a new drain hose is required to properly fit the ARINIX Tip. Follow the procedures in this bulletin for proper handling and installation of this optional service part.
• 10133699Some 2013 ? 2014 model year FR-S vehicles may exhibit multiple concerns from the Outer Weatherstrip (belt molding). The cross section of the weatherstrip has been revised to limit the amount of water passing into the door. If the felt attached to the window stabilizers/guides accumulate water, the vehicle may also make noise from the stabilizers/guides during window operation. In some cases, the felt on the stabilizers/guides may freeze to the window or detach from the plastic backing and damage the window.
• 10132900TSB: REVISION NOTICE November 10, 2016 Rev1: ? Applicability has been updated to include 2015 model year xB vehicles, 2016 model year iM vehicles, and 2015 ? 2016 tC vehicles. ? The Parts Information section has been updated. Any previous printed versions of this bulletin should be discarded. Some 2008 ? 2016 model year Scion vehicles may exhibit odors naturally occurring from the HVAC system and/or related environmental factors. Although there is no way to eliminate these odors, follow the General Procedure in this bulletin to minimize the odors experienced.
• 10132774TSB: OBSOLETE NOTICE-June 6, 2014: This bulletin is now obsolete.
• 10132773TSB: Flash reprogramming allows the ECU software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprogramming process and outlines use of the Technical Information System (TIS) and the Calibration Update Wizard (CUW). Flash calibration updates can only be applied to the vehicle/ECU combination for which they are intended. ECUs have internal security that will not allow them to be programmed with another ECU?s information.
• 10132743Tech Tip: Starting with the 2010 Model Year, Scion began a gradual transition to the use of synthetic 0w20 viscosity engine oil. There are multiple benefits of this oil including: Reduced friction and wear on engine surfaces, Improved fuel economy, Reduction in waste oil stream (in vehicles approved for 10,000 mile oil change intervals), Reduced maintenance cost (in vehicles approved for 10,000 mile oil change intervals). Due to the improved performance and durability of 0w20 synthetic oil, Scion has extended the oil change intervals to 10,000 mile for vehicles that require this oil (except the FR-S). With this change, the following should be noted: Only Scion vehicles in which 0w20 oil is mandatory have been approved for extended oil change intervals. Vehicles in which 0w20 is an option to 5w20 (or 5w30) will continue to require 5,000 mile change intervals, even if 0w20 oil is used. In the case of vehicles with 10,000 mile oil change intervals, the 5,000 mile service interval has not been eliminated. The traditional 5,000 mile maintenance procedures (such as tire rotation) will continue to be required, and the fluid levels (including engine oil) will need to be checked and adjusted at this time. If the vehicle operation meets the standard criteria for "Special Operating Conditions" such as: driving off-road, on dirt roads, towing a trailer, making repeated short trips under 32 degrees F, or extensive idling, the engine oil must be replaced at 5,000 mile intervals, regardless of oil used. exception is FR-S, where the oil must be replaced every 3,750 miles, under "Special Operating Conditions."
• 10132725TSB: The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased.
• 10132724TSB: Some 2011 ? 2014 model year tC vehicles may exhibit a condition where water is leaking from the HVAC system. This can be caused by the HVAC drain tube becoming clogged with debris.
• 10132722TSB: The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master keys are lost. Once the system is reset, all previously registered keys will be erased. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to reset a vehicle Immobilizer or Smart Key system.
• 10132574SB: Flash reprogramming allows the ECU software to be updated without replacing the ECU. Flash calibration updates for specific vehicle models/ECUs are released as field-fix procedures described in individual Service Bulletins. This bulletin details the Techstream ECU flash reprogramming process and outlines use of the Technical Information System (TIS) and the Calibration Update Wizard (CUW). Flash calibration updates can only be applied to the vehicle/ECU combination for which they are intended. ECUs have internal security that will not allow them to be programmed with another ECU?s information.
• 10132573SSB: Scion models equipped with the BeSpoke Premium Audio featuring Aha? require a Special Service Tool (SST) USB drive to update the map, points of interest, Gracenote, and system software. The SST is used with all vehicles to deliver the update, however a unique Activation Number is required for each vehicle. Activation Numbers are provided in an Activation Card Number (ACN) pamphlet available through the normal parts ordering system. Use the process described in this bulletin to perform the update. NOTE-Map data will be released annually through the shipment of a Special Service Tool USB drive to each dealer. The SST must be stored in the SST cabinet to ensure it can be easily found.
• 10132321Starting with the 2010 model year, Scion began a gradual transition to the use of synthetic 0w-20 viscosity engine oil. There are multiple benefits of this oil.
• 10132301Some 2013 model year tC RS 8.0 vehicles may exhibit excessive water accumulation inside the two-piece rear spoiler after heavy rain and/or snow. The rear spoiler has been modified to address this condition.
• 10132300Some 2013 model year vehicles are equipped with a Smart Key system, which allows the customer to enter and start the vehicle without using a mechanical key. To ensure the system is operating properly, the Smart Key functions (Smart Entry and Smart Start) should be inspected using the following procedure during Pre-Delivery Service (PDS).
• 10132298If a creak, tick, or rattle noise is heard at the top of the windshield, the source of the noise may be the two windshield stoppers bonded to the top of the windshield. This bulletin provides the recommended repair procedure to eliminate these types of noises from the windshield area.
• 10132272Tips for writing a DPR (Dealer Product Report) on manufacturing issues for windows and windshields.
• 10132271Certain service publications, Technical Service Bulletins, Service Campaign Technical Instructions and Service & Parts Operation Communication Bulletins may reference specifically required adhesives and sealants
• 10132270Prior to tire rotation use the quick reference chart below to verify the size of the lug nut and the lug nut torque specifications. The quick reference chart is applicable to current generation vehicles only.
• 10132250Some 2011 ? 2013 model year tC vehicles may exhibit a condition where water is leaking from the HVAC system. This can be caused by the HVAC drain tube becoming clogged with debris.
• 10132174Some 2008 ? 2016 model year Scion vehicles may exhibit odors naturally occurring from the HVAC system and/or related environmental factors. Although there is no way to eliminate these odors, follow the General Procedure in this bulletin to minimize the odors experienced.
• 10132167Customers with vehicles equipped with the premium head unit (BeSpoke powered by Zypr) who use an iPhone 4 or 4S that has been updated to iOS7 may experience a blank display when using the BeSpoke application on the head unit.
• 10132166Some customers may complain of a loose windshield molding or noise while driving as a result of a loose molding.
• 10132165To receive satellite radio functions after the initial trial period has expired, the customer must enter into a contract with XM Satellite Radio Inc. After entering into a contract, registration of an 8-digit XM Radio ID is required. This 8-digit XM Radio ID is found by turning to channel ?0? of the satellite radio.

Every Scion TC model year

Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.