The Toyota Scion xB spans 2004–2015 with 0 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.0/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2008, 2014, 2013 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 2004, 2005, 2006. It delivers up to 20 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Toyota Scion xB is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 2004 to 2015 across multiple generations.
How to read a Toyota Scion xB VIN — every digit explained
Every Toyota Scion xB carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Toyota and the country it was built in (real Toyota codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Scion xB.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- JapanJT2 · JT3 · JT4 · JT5 · JT6 · JT8
- USA4T1 · 4T3 · 4T4 · 58A · 5TB · 5TD
- Canada2T1 · 2T2 · 2T3
- Mexico3TM · 3TY
- TurkeyNMT
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Scion xB, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Toyota Scion xB have?
The Toyota Scion xB has 0 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2004–2015. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
Best and worst years for the Toyota Scion xB
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 12 tracked years, the worst years are 2008, 2014, 2013 and the best (fewest complaints) are 2004, 2005, 2006.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 Scion xB | — | Best | |
| 2005 Scion xB | — | Best | |
| 2006 Scion xB | — | Best | |
| 2007 Scion xB | — | Average | |
| 2008 Scion xB | Engine | Avoid | |
| 2009 Scion xB | — | Average | |
| 2010 Scion xB | — | Average | |
| 2011 Scion xB | — | Average | |
| 2012 Scion xB | Engine | Average | |
| 2013 Scion xB | Wheels | Avoid | |
| 2014 Scion xB | Electrical System | Avoid | |
| 2015 Scion xB | — | Average |
What are the most common Toyota Scion xB problems?
The most-reported Toyota Scion xB problems are Tires (1 reports), Engine (5 reports) and Wheels (2 reports) — out of 24 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Engine 5 Read
Tl* the contact owns a 2012 toyota scion. During routine maintenance, the technician notified the contact that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of oil. As a result, the oil level was low. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who confirmed that the vehicle used over a quart of oil in 1,000 miles. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but did not offer any assistance since the vehicle did not meet the minimum requirements for the manufacturer enhanced warranty coverage. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 27,000. The vin was not provided.
Vehicle uses extensive amounts of oil when traveling short distances wether on a highway or city streets, this year and model of the engine can use a lot of oil and may be fatal to others of oil is not checked on a daily basis. The vehicle has no signs of leakage.
Diesel oil runs out quickly. However, there are no signs of diesel oil leaking on the ground or while driving.
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 toyota scion xb. The contact stated that he received an extended warranty notification for excessive oil consumption. The vehicle was taken to midtown toyota (2700 n cicero ave, chicago, il 60639) where he received an oil change and was informed to return the vehicle once he drove another 1200 miles. At the stated mileage, the vehicle was taken back to the dealer. The contact was informed that the dealer was unable to service the vehicle on that day due to the number of vehicles that were already scheduled to be repaired. The contact returned two days later and was informed that the vehicle exceeded the mileage limit and was therefore not eligible for the extended warranty. The contact stated that while driving at 50 mph, the vehicle stalled with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to his residence. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
The car is sucking up the oil i get a oil change and the next day i have to put a quart of oil everyday is checking the oil i have to put at least 3 quarts of oil in it it does not hold the oil and you don't see where the oil is dripping out at.i love my car but i am having so many problems with this oil.
Visibility 3 Read
I was getting on the freeway when i heard a really loud boom. I got out of my car. I checked my car and i saw that my top front glass panel all broken. There were no cars in front of me and the damage looks even on both end of the glass panel. *tr
Tl* the contact owns a 2013 toyota scion. The contact stated that while driving 72 mph, there was a loud abnormal noise from the vehicle. The contact discovered that the sunroof glass exploded and the glass fell into sunroof visor. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 33,398 and the current mileage was 34,170.
Stress fracture on passenger side windshield. The crack was about 1 inch when first noticed and then spread to about 8 inches within just a few days. It started from underneath the weather stripping and frame on the lower side of the passenger side. It quickly started into a y like shape. I reported it to my local toyota dealer and i was instructed that it was just a freak incident and that my insurance would take care of it. I did have it replaced just a day ago and contacted my dealer to have the stickers replaced, but they made no mention of helping me out with the cost what so ever. I believe this is just another example a bad design and no accountability. I hope this report helps some one else down the road some time. If the windshield cracks again like this, i most definitely am going to trade the car in for a different brand of motor vehicle. *tr
Structure 3 Read
I was driving on the freeway and my hood flew up against my windshield. I had to pull off the freeway and my hood is severely damaged because of this. It cracked my windshield and could have caused major accidents.
Power Train 2 Read
I have a 2014, scion xd, i was driving home in the rain going about 60-65 on the interstate. When my car lost power. My radio went out, a/c off. Lights off, wipers stopped right in front of my face blocking my view and my steering wheel locked. All my dashboard lights came on. Not sure how long power was out but it did come back on. Luckily this time it did not cause an accident i was able to get off the interstate safely when the power came back. I let the car sit and restarted. The check engine light, airbag light and trac off were still on. Big safety concern. Had to have the car towed to the dealership where they told me the computer did not pick up anything. It was just a glitch meaning a problem they could not figure out. What do we do about this? I got the car the end of march not even 3 months old. Only 1743 miles. *tr
2013 toyota scion. Consumer experienced rpm increase and lack of power with vehicle and abnormal behavior. The consumer took the vehicle to the dealer. However, they were unable to determine a problem. A week later, the vehicle lost all power and would not accelerated. The consumer had the vehicle towed to a different dealer, where they determined the clutch disc had failed due to abuse. The dealer replaced it as a courtesy. A year later, the clutch disc failed again. *jb
Electrical System 2 Read
I have a 2014, scion xd, i was driving home in the rain going about 60-65 on the interstate. When my car lost power. My radio went out, a/c off. Lights off, wipers stopped right in front of my face blocking my view and my steering wheel locked. All my dashboard lights came on. Not sure how long power was out but it did come back on. Luckily this time it did not cause an accident i was able to get off the interstate safely when the power came back. I let the car sit and restarted. The check engine light, airbag light and trac off were still on. Big safety concern. Had to have the car towed to the dealership where they told me the computer did not pick up anything. It was just a glitch meaning a problem they could not figure out. What do we do about this? I got the car the end of march not even 3 months old. Only 1743 miles. *tr
I purchased my car back in october brand new no miles. When i was leaving the dealer ship i noticed moisture in the tail lights. I called the dealer ship they said they had to see it happening. It did not happen again till about january. I took my car in and to have them see the tail lights and they said it was a issue and replaced the drivers side tail light due to it being the only one having this issue at the time of my visit. A week after they replaced the tail light it happened again. The dealer ship expressed the concern for safety for this issue and replaced them again. While in there for this visit the owner of the dealer ship came up to me and said its a known issue with the car and that they would try their best to fix this issue. That same night after having them replaced the moisture was back in the tail lights. I returned the dealer ship and showed them it happening again. This time they refused to replaced the tail lights and told me they would contact me. I never received a phone call. I called the dealership a week later and now they are stating that it is normal to get moisture and ice in my tail light. I filed a claim with toyota/scion and i was told its normal. They could not give me an answer to why it is or tell me if there was a fix for the issue. When i brought up my concern for the tail lights possibly shorting out they said if it does to contact them. I also asked what if they do short out and i have no brake lights what would happen. They told me its my job to make it doesn't happen and that its not there problem, having moisture in a sealed tail light with no replicable bulbs is a big safety issue if moisture gets in the wiring or lights and my brake lights short out. They can not give me a straight answer and they are refraining from answering my concerns after the dealer said this next time it happens it becomes a case for the lemon law. *tr
Wheels 2 Read
Tl* the contact owns a 2013 toyota scion equipped with toyo n3j7 (na) tires, size p225/45r/18 (na). While driving 65 mph, the tire was punctured by a nail. As a result, the tire flattened and separated in three pieces. The dealer stated that the nail puncture caused the tire damage, but the contact stated that the rims cut the tire into pieces. The contact mentioned that the tires were the original ones purchased with the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 21,640.
Tl* the contact owns a 2010 toyota scion. The contact stated that while driving approximate 50 mph, he heard a loud bang. The contact stopped the vehicle and noticed that the rear driver's side tire had exploded. The contact replaced the tire and took the vehicle to the dealer for diagnosis. The technician stated that the rim was fractured and would need to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for the replacement of the rim. The vehicle was repaired. The vin was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 1,500.
Air Bags 2 Read
Tl* the contact owns a 2012 toyota scion. The contact stated while at a complete stop, another vehicle crashed into the rear of the vehicle and the air bags failed to deploy. The front seat passenger sustained a bump to the back of the head and other internal injuries. A police report was filed of the incident. The vehicle was destroyed. However, the contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence with caution. The manufacturer was notified of the problem. The approximate failure mileage was 32,000.
"takata recall" scion sent me a letter stating have no front seat passenger ride in my car. No further word regarding upgrade or fix. Unrealistic to expect no front seat passenger indefinitely. No remedy recommended.
Fuel System 1 Read
Tl* the contact owns a 2014 toyota scion. The contact stated that the fuel gage displayed an empty tank after refueling and the low fuel warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer for diagnostic testing. The fuel sending unit was replaced but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to a dealer and the technician stated that fuel was stuck. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 430...updated 09-15-14 *bf.. Updated 10/06/14 *bf the consumer stated the fuel reporting system malfunctioned due to an un-balanced fuel level condition. The problem seemed to occur at the highest frequency when adding small amounts of fuel into a partially filled fuel tank. The consumer stated he added fuel, and the needle did not move. Updated 11/18/14 updated 1/20/2015 *js
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Toyota Scion xB specifications & dimensions
The 2015 Toyota Scion xB. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Toyota Scion xB window sticker.
| Specs cache warming… |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Toyota Scion xB cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Scion xB holds — passengers and cargo. Seating, cargo and interior dimensions vary by trim and seat configuration — decode your VIN for the exact build.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Toyota Scion xB tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Toyota Scion xB get?
The Toyota Scion xB returns up to 20 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $3,100/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 2015 Toyota Scion xB (4L 6-cyl) gets 19 mpg combined and costs about $3,300/yr to fuel.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 Scion xB | 17 | 22 | $3,300 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 2014 Scion xB | 17 | 22 | $3,300 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 2013 Scion xB | 17 | 22 | $3,300 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 2012 Scion xB | 17 | 23 | $3,300 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 2011 Scion xB | 17 | 23 | $3,300 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 2010 Scion xB | 17 | 23 | $3,300 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 2009 Scion xB | 16 | 21 | $3,450 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 2008 Scion xB | 16 | 21 | $3,450 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 2007 Scion xB | 16 | 21 | $3,450 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 2006 Scion xB | 16 | 20 | $3,450 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 2005 Scion xB | 16 | 20 | $3,450 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl | |
| 2004 Scion xB | 16 | 20 | $3,450 | — | — | 4L 6-cyl |
The 2009 Toyota Scion xB (4.7L 8-cyl) gets 17 mpg combined and costs about $3,650/yr to fuel.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 Scion xB | 15 | 19 | $3,650 | — | — | 4.7L 8-cyl | |
| 2008 Scion xB | 15 | 19 | $3,650 | — | — | 4.7L 8-cyl | |
| 2007 Scion xB | 15 | 19 | $3,650 | — | — | 4.7L 8-cyl | |
| 2006 Scion xB | 15 | 18 | $3,900 | — | — | 4.7L 8-cyl | |
| 2005 Scion xB | 15 | 18 | $3,900 | — | — | 4.7L 8-cyl | |
| 2004 Scion xB | 15 | 18 | $3,900 | — | — | 4.7L 8-cyl |
The 2011 Toyota Scion xB (2.7L 4-cyl) gets 19 mpg combined and costs about $3,300/yr to fuel.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 Scion xB | 18 | 21 | $3,300 | — | — | 2.7L 4-cyl | |
| 2010 Scion xB | 18 | 23 | $3,100 | — | — | 2.7L 4-cyl |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the Scion xB stacks up against the most fuel-efficient SUVs, or calculate this Scion xB's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Toyota Scion xB have? Power & range
The Toyota Scion xB is offered with 3 powertrains — 4L 6-cyl, 4.7L 8-cyl, 2.7L 4-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V6 | 4.0L · 6-cyl | Automatic (S5) | RWD | Regular |
| V8 | 4.7L · 8-cyl | Automatic 5-spd | RWD | Regular |
| 4-cyl | 2.7L · 4-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | RWD | Regular |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Can a Toyota Scion xB tow? Towing & payload
As an SUV, the Toyota Scion xB is built to tow and haul. The exact maximum towing capacity and payload depend on the engine, drivetrain and whether it has the factory tow package.
What sets your Scion xB's tow & payload rating:
- Engine — a larger or turbocharged engine tows more than the base unit.
- Drivetrain & axle — 4WD/AWD and the axle ratio shift the rating.
- Tow package — the factory towing package (hitch, wiring, transmission cooler) raises the max.
- Payload & GVWR — GVWR caps the combined load; more passengers and cargo lower how much you can tow.
Exact towing capacity, payload and GVWR are added per engine, drivetrain and trim — decode your VIN above, or check the driver's door-jamb and hitch labels. Curb weight from vehicle specifications.
How much does a Toyota Scion xB cost to own?
A used Toyota Scion xB sells for a median of about $7,800 for a 2015 — most listed between $4,888 and $8,495, from 173 real US listings we track. That real market price is what depreciation eats into, so it's the true anchor of the cost to own:
| Year | Typical price | Market range | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 Scion xB | $4,888–$8,495 | 5 | |
| 2014 Scion xB | $1,750–$8,495 | 16 | |
| 2013 Scion xB | $4,900–$8,900 | 11 | |
| 2012 Scion xB | $3,500–$8,800 | 38 | |
| 2011 Scion xB | $4,900–$7,800 | 8 | |
| 2010 Scion xB | $2,500–$5,500 | 14 |
For every model year mileage-adjusted, trade-in vs private-party vs dealer pricing and a good-deal check, see what a Scion xB is worth today, or browse used-market prices across all models.
A Toyota Scion xB holds its value well. A typical example keeps roughly 56% of its value after five years — losing about 44% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 84% | $25,200 | −$4,800 |
| Year 2 | 76% | $22,800 | −$7,200 |
| Year 3 | 68% | $20,400 | −$9,600 |
| Year 4 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 5 | 56% | $16,800 | −$13,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Scion xB loses about 44% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $15,500 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Scion xB ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Toyota Scion xB safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the Scion xB yet — see the top-rated safest cars instead.
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How many miles does a Toyota Scion xB last?
A well-maintained Toyota Scion xB typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.0/5.
Check your Toyota Scion xB’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Scion xB’s VIN free →All Toyota Scion xB model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Toyota Scion xB — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 Scion xB | 0 | — | |
| 2014 Scion xB | 0 | — | |
| 2013 Scion xB | 0 | — | |
| 2012 Scion xB | 0 | — | |
| 2011 Scion xB | 0 | — | |
| 2010 Scion xB | 0 | — | |
| 2009 Scion xB | 0 | — | |
| 2008 Scion xB | 0 | — | |
| 2007 Scion xB | 0 | — | |
| 2006 Scion xB | 0 | — | |
| 2005 Scion xB | 0 | — | |
| 2004 Scion xB | 0 | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Scion xB?
By owner-complaint volume, 2008, 2014, 2013 drew the most reports. 2004, 2005, 2006 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Scion xB have?
0 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2004–2015. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the Scion xB get?
Up to 20 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a Scion xB last?
A well-maintained Scion xB typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Scion xB reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Scion xB is 4.0/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Toyota Scion xB warranty?
New Toyota models carry a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 5 years / 60,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Toyota dealer.
Where is the Toyota Scion xB made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Scion xB's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Toyota may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the Scion xB have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.