Used 2005 Scion tC 2dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M) Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Not bad
Its a nice car, but it has a few designer flaws. But the car handles well, its a smooth ride with no problems.
Good car for the Money!
I tested the Scion tC vs. the Pontiac G6, Mazda3, Honda Civic Coupe, Kia Spectra, and Chevy Cobalt. The Scion is better equipped for the price than all others but the Kia, and is just a much better car overall than the Kia. It's nearly as fun as the Mazda, even though it's thousands less with the options. It is a good buy. You won't regret it.
- Base 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $3,95050 mi away
- Base 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $4,9998 mi away
- Base 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $5,30012 mi away
Best Bang for the Buck
I purchased my tC a year and a half ago, it now has 32,xxx miles. Stepping down to this economy car from my 1990 LS 400 with 200,xxx miles was a wise decision, especially with skyrocketing gas prices. I average around 26-28 mpg mostly highway, my highest on single tank was 32 mpg. I once fit 3 adult friends + me + mountain bike in it. I replaced the hatch struts at 30,000 miles =( . Also, it has spongy brakes. The large tire / fender gap makes it feel like I am driving an SUV. Please remember that the tC is an economy car and in stock form is a nice daily driver. It has a soft suspension and seat belt buzzer. Many of the tC's pitfalls can be remedied with upgrades. The tC is the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and sportiness (or lack thereof). I am happy with my purchase.
Good Idea...
Coming straight out of college, this inexpensive coupe was at the top of my list. The tC has great features and standard options. I love the moonroof, interior finish, etc. It has a great power band, I love the torque. Its 17" wheels with Potenzas, can't beat that for $17,000. Having said this now that I've driven it for a year and a half, I wish I could sell this thing back to Toyota. Mine sounds like a baby rattle inside. The hatch, dash, and moonroof rattle even on smooth roads. I should've waited for the '06 Civic Si. This car was such a great idea, too bad. I will never buy a Lexus thanks to this thing.
Noisy
I took a test drive of about 10 miles in a 5-speed Scion tC today and felt it needs a lot more insulation for reduction of wind noise. The engine was fairly quiet at 3,000 rpms at about 70 mph. This car's rear cargo cover is not designed for use on a regular basis. It is very flimsy! Also, severely pulled to the right side when you took your hands off the steering wheel and when braking. I looked for the clutch reserivor and could not find it so a technician said it was included in with the brake reserivor so that eliminates having to put fluid in a seperate one. Changing my oil should be o.k. and the air cleaner is easy to get to. All the fluids were full and are easily accessible.