What was the worst year for Scion xB?

The Scion xB does not have a universally agreed-upon “worst year.” Overall reliability has been solid for a budget hatch, but individual model years differ in recalls, reported issues, and maintenance costs. This article surveys reliability data, recalls, and owner experiences to help readers understand how to evaluate risk when shopping for a used xB.

What defines a “worst year” for a car like the Scion xB

When people ask about the worst year for a given model, they typically weigh reliability scores, recall history, maintenance costs, and owner experiences. The Scion xB has two generations with different design problems and recall patterns, so the answer depends on which generation you’re considering and which data source you trust.

Key indicators you should review include:

• Official safety recalls and service campaigns by model year, published by NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and Toyota/Scion.


• Independent reliability ratings by organizations such as Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, broken down by model year.


• Owner-reported issues on forums and surveys, which can reveal year-to-year trends in problems like drivetrain, electrical, or interior wear.


• Maintenance and repair cost trends by year, which can signal higher long-term ownership risks.

In practice, while some years may show more incidents in particular datasets, there is no single outlier that all sources agree is the “worst.” Buyers should weigh the data by generation and individual vehicle history rather than rely on a single year label.

Reliability and recalls by generation

The Scion xB was produced in two generations, each with its own typical issues and recall patterns. Understanding the generation and model year can help buyers anticipate potential trouble spots.

Below is a concise guide to evaluating reliability by generation. The goal is to equip readers with a framework to assess risk rather than claim an absolute worst year.

First generation (roughly mid‑2000s)

The original xB established the model’s practical appeal—boxy cargo space and simple maintenance. Reliability data for early models is generally reasonable for a budget hatch, but some years show greater variability in reports and recall campaigns as the platform matured.

Second generation (late 2000s to mid‑2010s)

The redesigned xB shifted to updated styling and powertrain arrangements. Reliability generally improved with refinements, but some model years still appear in recall notices or show owner-reported issues typical of any aging commercial compact vehicle.

Recalls and safety campaigns by year: how to check

To determine if a specific year had notable safety recalls, reviewers should examine official recall data for that model year. Recalls can affect perceived risk even if the underlying defect is not unique to that year.

Useful sources include:

• NHTSA recall database (by vehicle and model year)


• Manufacturer notices and service campaigns published by Toyota/Scion


• Independent summaries from Consumer Reports and JD Power that flag model-year-specific recall activity

In short, recall history is a strong signal for potential risk, but it should be interpreted in the context of the number of units affected and the severity of the defect. A few high‑severity recalls on a small batch may weigh less than widespread, low‑severity campaigns across many years.

What to consider when shopping used Scion xB by year

Because data vary by generation and year, buyers should use year-specific checks rather than relying on a single “worst year.” The following practical steps can help minimize risk regardless of which year you’re considering.

• Obtain the complete recall history for the exact model year and VIN from NHTSA or the manufacturer.


• Review reliability ratings for that year from Consumer Reports and other reputable testers.


• Check maintenance records for timing belt/chain, transmission servicing, and major fluid changes typical for the generation.


• Inspect for common wear items specific to the xB’s generation, such as suspension components, electrical boards, or interior hardware, and verify warranty coverage where applicable.

Ultimately, there is no universally acknowledged “worst year” for the Scion xB. The best practice is to analyze year‑specific reliability data, recalls, and the individual vehicle’s maintenance history to determine which units present lower risk.

Summary

The Scion xB’s reputation for reliability is generally favorable among budget hatchbacks, but there is no single year that stands as the official worst. The most reliable approach for prospective buyers is to examine year‑by‑year reliability ratings, recall histories, and the specific service records of any used xB under consideration. By evaluating generation differences and individual vehicle history, buyers can identify the years with the most favorable risk profiles.

What year Scion xB to avoid?

You should be wary of the 2008–2012 Scion xB models due to their issues with excessive oil consumption and a specific engine problem. While other years have had recalls, the engine issue is a significant, recurring problem that is best to avoid if you're looking for a reliable car. 
Years to approach with caution

• 2008–2012: These model years are most associated with a known issue of excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. 

Other years and considerations

• 2004–2006: This first generation is known for its simplicity and reliability, though some owners have noted issues with the rear hatch handle and belt/pulley system. 
• 2011–2015: These models are a better option than the 2008-2012 models but still had some issues, including a recall for potential air bag defects that affected many Scion models. 
• 2009–2011: These years had a recall for a power window master switch, which is a common issue with many Toyota and Scion models from this time. 

What to do when buying a Scion xB

• Check for recalls: Regardless of the model year, always check for any outstanding safety recalls, particularly for the air bag system. 
• Inspect the engine: If you are considering a model year known for oil consumption issues, have the engine checked thoroughly by a trusted mechanic. 
• Consider a pre-purchase inspection: A professional inspection can help identify any potential problems before you buy. 

Which years of Scion xB have oil consumption issues?

2008-2012
WHAT ABOUT THE ISSUE OF EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION ON THE 2008-2012 SCION XB due to the defective engine installed by TOYOTA.

What are the bad years for Scion?

Avoid Scion years with known oil consumption issues, such as Scion tC models from 2007–2009 and Scion tC models from 2004–2016 which can have excessive oil burning from worn piston rings or sludge buildup. Scion xB models from 2009–2015 should also be checked for potential airbag recall issues due to defective inflator modules. 
Engine and oil consumption

• Scion tC 2004–2016: These models are known for excessive oil consumption. The cause can be worn piston rings or sludge from infrequent oil changes, often requiring an oil change every 3,000 miles to prevent future issues. 
• Scion tC 2007–2009: Specifically, the 2.4L engine in these models is known to have a manufacturing defect with faulty piston rings that causes excessive oil consumption. 
• Scion tC 2004–2016: The 2006 model year had reported alignment issues and engine ticking noises. 
• Scion tC 2014–2016: Some owners report that the 2nd generation manual transmission input shaft bearing is known to fail. 

Airbag issues

• Scion xB 2009–2015: These models were subject to recalls for potentially exploding airbag inflators, which could injure occupants. 

Other

• Scion tC: Some sources mention potential engine issues in the 2.4L engine from model years 2007-2009. 
• Scion iQ: Some sources suggest that these are not reliable cars. 

What year is the best Scion?

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.