Positioning:
The Scion tC (2004-2006) was positioned as a sporty, affordable compact coupe targeting younger buyers. It offered a blend of style, practicality, and a touch of performance.
Competitors:
Key competitors during its initial release included the Honda Civic Coupe, Nissan Sentra SE-R, Mitsubishi Eclipse, and Hyundai Tiburon.
Highlights:
Unique "all-glass" panoramic sunroof (optional), distinctive styling, front-wheel-drive platform, and Toyota's reputation for reliability.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Electrical Systems
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific dealer publication, but comprehensive manuals typically exceed 1000 pages.
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting & Charging System, Emission Control System, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Clutch
Chassis:
Drive Shaft, Differential, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering Column, Power Steering, Brakes (Hydraulic & Parking), Wheels & Tires
Body And Electrical:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Glass, Mirrors, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC (Air Conditioning), Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Cruise Control, Wipers & Washers, Door Locks, Meters, Audio/Visual Systems, Horn, Instrument Panel, Engine Immobilizer, Multiplex/CAN Communication Systems
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, component inspections
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II code interpretation, wiring diagram analysis
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical troubleshooting and wiring diagrams.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2362 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 160 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 163 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (Driver and Passenger) for 2004-2006 models.
Braking:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, often standard on higher trims or later models.
Traction Control:
Optional, typically paired with ABS.
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags for driver and passenger. Side curtain airbags and front side-impact airbags were optional or became standard later in the generation.
Seat Belts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters for all occupants.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil). Check owner's manual for exact recommendations.
Engine Coolant:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter. Use Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC).
Transmission Fluid:
Automatic: Inspect every 30,000 miles, change as needed based on driving conditions. Manual: Inspect at 30,000 miles, no scheduled change unless problems arise.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified). Capacity: Approx. 4.5 quarts with filter.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Toyota ATF WS (World Standard) or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 3.5 quarts (drain and fill).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 2.1 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine Mounts:
Some owners report premature wear or failure of engine mounts, leading to increased vibration.
Exhaust Manifold:
Cracks can develop in the exhaust manifold due to heat cycles, causing exhaust leaks and a ticking sound.
Ac Compressor:
While not a widespread epidemic, some reports of early AC compressor failure exist.
Power Steering Pump:
Occasional reports of noisy or leaking power steering pumps.