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Which Years Of Used Scion xBs Are Most Reliable?


in Reliability
Green Scion xB

Scion xB by Tydence Davis - CC-BY-SA-4.0

Compact, efficient, and uniquely designed, the Scion xB is a car that certainly stands out. Whether it’s the practical box-like design or the promise of Toyota’s reliable engineering, the Scion xB has attracted a loyal following. If you’re considering a pre-owned Scion xB, however, there’s one thing you need to know - what is the most reliable Scion xB year?

Determining the most reliable Scion xB year is key to making a smart purchase. Not all used cars are created equal, and some model years might present more potential issues than others. This is particularly true if you’re looking at older vehicles that may have seen their fair share of wear and tear. Let’s delve deeper to understand which years of Scion xB are the most reliable.


THE SCION xB YEARS TO AVOID

Some years are reported to have more problems than others, making them less desirable for potential buyers. Before you invest in a used Scion xB, it’s crucial to be aware of the Scion xB years to avoid.


Most Reliable Years For The Scion xB 

When it comes to purchasing a used car, you can’t go wrong with a model known for its reliability. Based on consumer reports and recall records, here are the most reliable Scion xB years that you should consider:

  • 2008 Scion xB
  • 2009 Scion xB
  • 2011 Scion xB
  • 2012 Scion xB
  • 2015 Scion xB

Each of these Scion xB years stands out for its durability and limited major mechanical issues. When considering the most reliable Scion xB year, these are the ones to keep an eye out for.

Are Scion xBs Generally Reliable?

The Scion xB is generally seen as a reliable vehicle. According to Consumer Reports, the Scion xB has consistently scored well in the reliability category throughout its production years. The Scion xB’s average reliability score is 4 out of 5, which puts it in the upper tier of used cars in terms of dependability.

While the Scion brand may no longer be in production, it was a subsidiary of Toyota, a brand known for producing durable and reliable vehicles. This reliability has transferred well to the Scion xB, which boasts a generally solid track record of performance and minimal major issues. 


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Which Scion xB Years Are The Least Reliable?

As much as the Scion xB has a reputation for reliability, not all years are created equal. Some years have been associated with more problems and are thus seen as less reliable. While these issues may not be deal-breakers for everyone, it’s still important to be aware of them. Here are the Scion xB years to potentially avoid according to vehiclefreak.com:

  1. 2008 Scion xB: This year is often reported for excessive oil consumption and cruise control issues.
  2. 2009 Scion xB: This year is often noted for excessive oil consumption and many different recalls.
  3. 2012 Scion xB: Oil consumption is an issue still with 2012 models, and they also experience paint peeling off in sheets.

It’s worth noting that even within these years, many owners report satisfactory experiences, and these issues are not universal. However, if you’re looking for the most reliable Scion xB year, these may not be the first years you’ll want to consider.

Are Scion xBs Expensive To Maintain?

One of the advantages of the Scion xB, particularly for budget-conscious buyers, is its relatively low maintenance cost. According to data from RepairPal, the average annual maintenance cost for the Scion xB is around $386, which is significantly below the average for compact cars. This estimate includes both scheduled maintenance and unexpected repairs.

Which Scion xB Is Most Reliable?

The reliability of the Scion xB can differ based on the production year. When choosing the most reliable Scion xB year, vehiclefreak reports that the models produced from 2005-2006 and 2013-2015 typically score high in terms of reliability.

However, keep in mind that individual experiences can vary significantly based on factors like the care taken by previous owners, the vehicle’s mileage, and your maintenance habits. Even the most reliable Scion xB year is not immune to the occasional issues, especially if not properly maintained. 


THE 10 MOST RELIABLE USED SEDANS

If you’re ready to start shopping for a used car and reliability is a priority for you, take a look at our list of the top 10 most reliable used sedans on the market today. 


What Are The Most Common Scion xB Problems?

Here are some of the most commonly reported problems with the Scion xB, according to carparts.com:

  • Excessive oil consumption: This is especially common in models from the 2008 to 2015 production years. The issue typically arises after the car has clocked in about 100,000 miles.
  • Failure of the steering rack and pinion: This is a less common but potentially more serious problem that can lead to issues with steering the vehicle.
  • Airbag and seatbelt electrical issues: Some owners of the Scion xB have reported problems with airbags and seatbelt warning lights. In most cases, this is a wiring issue that can be fixed fairly easily.

What Reddit Says About the Best Year of the Scion xB:

The quirky Scion xB: Toyota’s boxy compact that gained a cult following. But how did it fare long-term? We’ve dug through Reddit to find out what owners really think about their toaster-on-wheels. Let’s see if its reliability matches its unique charm.

Here’s a big fan of the first-gen Scion xB:

Comment
byu/Superb_bird70 from discussion
inScionxB

A slight overview of Scion xB generations and their issues:

Posts from the scionxb
community on Reddit

Another solid breakdown of the Scion xB generations:

Comment
byu/trippyceloo from discussion
inScionxB

Here are votes of confidence for the ‘05 and ‘06 models:

Comment
byu/DyreTitan from discussion
inScionxB

Despite the short production run, the Scion xB has garnered a good reputation for reliability. 


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Is The Scion xB Worth It?

Given the Scion xB’s reputation for reliability, low maintenance cost, and overall build quality, it’s definitely a vehicle worth considering. If you’re in the market for a used car that provides a balance of practicality, comfort, and reliability, the Scion xB should certainly be on your shortlist.

Just make sure to avoid the least reliable years and keep an eye out for the common problems mentioned above. With regular maintenance and proper care, a Scion xB can provide you with many years of reliable service. For the most reliable Scion xB year, consider models from 2005, 2006, 2011, 2013, or 2014.

Final Thoughts

If you’re shopping for a used Scion xB, the best years to look for are the early years and the late years, but stay out of the middle. 2005 and 2006 are great, but getting rarer due to age, while the 2015 is another solid year that’ll be easier to find.

Avoid models from 2008, 2009, and 2012, as these are considered less reliable compared to other years. However, keep in mind that regular maintenance and care play a huge role in any vehicle’s longevity and performance. No matter the model year you choose, proper care can help ensure that your Scion xB lasts for many years to come.

And remember, while Scion xB’s are generally reliable cars, they’re not without their problems. Keep an eye out for excessive oil consumption, failure of the steering rack and pinion, and potential airbag and seatbelt electrical issues.



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