Positioning:
The 2008 Scion tC was positioned as an affordable, sporty coupe aimed at younger buyers, offering a blend of style, practicality, and value. This manual supports that demographic's desire for DIY maintenance and repair.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic Coupe, Mitsubishi Eclipse, and Kia Spectra Coupe, emphasizing value and accessible performance.
Manual Value Proposition:
Official licensing from OE materials ensures accuracy and completeness, providing a significant cost saving compared to professional labor rates. Instant online access enhances convenience over traditional print manuals.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECU/ECM), starting, charging.
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, differential, drive axles, prop shaft (if applicable), wheel bearings.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering (power steering system, components), brakes (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake), wheels and tires.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), exterior lighting, interior lighting, wipers, washers.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, battery, alternators, starter motors, lighting systems, power accessories, instrument cluster, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil and filter changes, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (e.g., water pump, alternator), brake pad and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (e.g., struts, ball joints), exhaust system repair, steering component replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, electrical system diagnostics, component testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic DIY maintenance to advanced mechanical and electrical repairs. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts.
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve
Displacement:
2362 cc (2.4 Liters)
Horsepower:
161 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque:
163 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
Oil Type Recommendation:
SAE 5W-30 API Certified Synthetic or Conventional
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic with Sequential Shift
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Toyota ATF WS (World Standard) or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Check specific manual for exact Toyota specification, e.g., 08885-00304)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
4 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:
Good
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel anti-lock braking system)
Traction Control:
Standard (TRAC)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (VSC - Vehicle Stability Control)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with MP3/WMA playback, auxiliary audio input jack. Optional premium audio with subwoofer and amplifier.
Display:
Digital clock display, optional touch screen navigation system (late 2008 models or as an accessory).
Bluetooth:
Optional (often part of Premium Upgrade Package or aftermarket)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using conventional oil). Every 10,000 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil and severe usage conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium-tipped spark plugs: Every 120,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first.
Coolant Flush:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter.
Engine Coolant:
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) or equivalent silicate-free, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) type (e.g., Toyota 00272-88005-01)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems And Solutions:
Potential for oil consumption in some engines (requiring PCV valve inspection/replacement and potential ring cleanup), occasional power steering pump noise, and ABS/VSC system faults (often related to wheel speed sensors or solenoids). The manual provides diagnostic procedures for these and other common issues.
Scion Origin:
Scion was a marque introduced by Toyota in 2003, targeting younger consumers with distinctive styling and a no-haggle pricing strategy.
First Gen Launch:
The first generation tC (XB10) was launched for the 2005 model year, replacing the discontinued Toyota Celica in Toyota's North American lineup.
2008 Updates:
The 2008 model year received a mid-cycle refresh, including updated exterior styling (grille, headlights, taillights), revised interior materials, and minor powertrain enhancements. This manual covers that refreshed model.
Assembly Location:
Takamatsu, Kagawa, Japan (by Toyota Auto Body)
๐ Awards & Recognition
Model Recognition:
The Scion tC, particularly in its early years, received positive reviews for its style and value, contributing to its popularity among its target demographic. Specific major awards for the 2008 model year are less prominent, but it maintained a strong market presence.
