2006 Scion tC Review
Price: $3,997
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- High quality all around, unexpected safety and luxury features, tight handling, spacious cabin, bargain price.
Cons
- A couple of odd design elements, drab styling.
What’s new
The 2006 Scion tC receives a new three-spoke steering wheel with audio controls, and the Pioneer audio system has a new head unit design and remote mini-jack port for portable music sources. Newly available is integrated iPod connectivity, which delivers iPod display information and allows unit control through the audio system.
Edmunds says
With a bargain price tag, a ton of standard features and a fun-loving personality, the 2006 Scion tC is another big hit for the Scion folks.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
37 listings
- 195,406 miles
- Rebuilt vehicle reported, 4 owners, personal use only
- 20 City / 27 Hwy MPG
- Auto Import Center (17 mi away)
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Rear Bench Seats
- Aux Audio Inputs
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Manassas, VA
2006 SCION TCVIN: JTKDE167260125015J T K D E 1 6 7 2 6 0 1 2 5 0 1 5HATCHBACK 2 DR2.4L I4 F DOHC 16VGASOLINEFRONT WHEEL DRIVE
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Issue reported
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
23 Combined MPG (20 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTKDE167260125015
Stock: 125015
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 02-27-2026- $3,992good price$678 below market
- 150,946 miles
- 2 accidents, 3 owners, personal use only
- 19 City / 27 Hwy MPG, Manual
- Automan Empire (53 mi away)
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Rear Bench Seats
- Aux Audio Inputs
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Fredericksburg, VA
2006 SCION TC with powerful 2.4L DOHC MPFI 16-VALVE I4 W/VARIABLE VALVE engine and driven only 150946 miles! Fully loaded and much more! CARFAX CERT...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
22 Combined MPG (19 City/27 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTKDE177360122655
Stock: 122655
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Vehicle overview
With the Scion brand, Toyota is making a credible effort to understand the Generation Y market and give it what it wants without pushing it down its throat. Housed within Toyota dealerships, Scion salespeople are instructed to play it straight with consumers -- this means no-haggle pricing similar to Saturn dealers and the ability to get a car the way a customer wants it in about a week. And by offering over three dozen dealer-installed options, Scion hopes to give its buyers unprecedented opportunity to customize their cars on the front end.
Unlike the xA and xB, which look like they could've come out of a comic book (and we mean that in a good way -- we like their funky yet practical style), the Scion tC is a more mainstream design. Somehow managing to look a little pudgy yet sleek at the same time, the tC has a generic rectangular grille, headlamps with BMW-like "eyebrows" and a body that boasts crisp, clean lines. Still, there are a few head-turning elements. One is the deeply tinted glass panoramic roof that features a power sunroof above the front seats and a fixed glass portion above the rear compartment. Another is the set of double-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels that look as good as anything in the aftermarket. Both of these high-end features are standard.
Inside the upscale cabin, high-quality materials abound, and features such as metallic accents, damped compartment doors, multiple adjustments for the driver seat and an outside temperature display further this impression. An elegant "waterfall"-style center stack flows into the center console, and both front seats slide forward to allow folks to get into the backseat. On the move, the 2006 Scion tC feels eager to run thanks to its standard 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine. Borrowed from the Camry, this is a big engine for this class of car, where 1.7 to 2.2 liters is more the norm. With 160 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque, the tC's motor handily beats the starter engines in the Civic and Ion coupes.
Out in the real world, the tC's performance makes good on the promise of the spec sheet numbers. A broad power band means that there's strong pull down low and through the midrange, and when coupled to the sweet-shifting five-speed manual gearbox, the 2006 Scion tC feels sportier than one might expect. Priced under $17,000, the tC is yet another hit for Scion. After all, there's the strong Toyota reputation, the spacious and comfortable cabin, fine build quality, entertaining driving dynamics and plenty of standard niceties. Add in the ability to customize with your own personal touch and there's plenty to like about this affordable coupe.
Performance & mpg
Standard power for the Scion tC comes from a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder borrowed from the Camry, with 160 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque. A smooth-shifting five-speed manual gearbox is standard, with a four-speed automatic available as an option. Fuel economy is average for a budget coupe with a 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway estimate for the manual, and 23 city/30 highway for the optional automatic.
Safety
The 2006 Scion tC comes with four-wheel antilock disc brakes (with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) as standard equipment. Side airbags for front occupants and full-length head curtain airbags are optional. Other standard safety features include a first aid kit, triple side door beams and a driver knee airbag.
Driving
The 2006 Scion tC features a fully independent suspension (with a double-wishbone setup in the rear that maximizes interior space) and Z-rated 215/45R17 Bridgestone Potenzas wrapped around those eye-catching 17s. The result is a precise, well-weighted feel and flat, composed cornering. Ride quality is firm, but compliant enough to absorb most bumps and ruts on battered city streets. The 2.4-liter engine's broad power band contributes to the fun with plenty of pull down low and through the midrange.
Interior
Although the Scion tC is a compact car at just 174 inches long, a relatively long (106.3-inch) wheelbase provides more than ample legroom, especially for those riding in the back. Rear passengers will also enjoy the split seat backs that can individually recline up to 45 degrees. Although it looks like a coupe, the tC is actually a hatchback, which means flexible cargo capacity. By folding down the rear seats as well as the right front seat, a load floor that stretches 103.6 inches is created, ideal for snowboarders and surfers. Cargo capacity is 12.8 cubic feet with the rear seats in use and a whopping 60 cubic feet when they're folded down.
2006 Scion tC models
The 2006 Scion tC comes in one trim level and is chock-full of unexpected goodies such as one-touch up-and-down power windows, cruise control, air conditioning, steering wheel audio controls, keyless entry, mirror-mounted turn signal lights, four-wheel antilock disc brakes and a 160-watt Pioneer sound system with CD player and remote mini-jack port that is (XM) satellite radio-ready. The only factory option is a side airbag package, but there is a multitude of dealer-installed options. This list includes a CD changer, satellite radio, a subwoofer and a lighting kit for the footwell, just to name a few. A unique iPod connectivity upgrade is also available, and allows full iPod control, including power and display, through the tC's audio system.

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Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
The 2006 Scion tC is consistently praised for its enjoyable driving experience and high value. Owners frequently comment on the car's sporty character and the excitement it brings to daily commutes. The spacious interior is another attractive feature, with many drivers highlighting the unexpectedly generous room and comfort both in the front and rear seating areas. The hatchback design not only gives it a sporty look but also offers commendable cargo versatility, allowing for easy transport of larger items. This Scion model stands out for its solid build, meriting mention for reliability; many owners report minimal issues even after extensive use. Its fuel economy, while not class-leading, is often deemed reasonable for a sporty compact, especially on highway trips. The inclusion of numerous standard features, such as the panoramic sunroof and Pioneer sound system, rounds out the tC as a package that's hard to beat at its price point.
Common Issues
The 2006 Scion tC has several commonly reported issues that owners frequently highlight. One of the biggest complaints is the excessive oil consumption, which can lead to costly repairs if not closely monitored. Drivers often mention the hatch handle breaking, a frustrating and recurring problem that seems to affect a significant number of vehicles. Many owners find the ride to be stiffer than desired, leading to a less comfortable experience over rough roads. Poor sound insulation is another pain point, with noticeable road noise that intrudes into the cabin, particularly at higher speeds. The audio and climate control system have been noted for having buttons that are sometimes unresponsive, adding to driver frustration. Additionally, the sunroof presents challenges with wind noise and occasional mechanical issues, such as difficulty closing completely. Lastly, visibility of the instrument panel during daylight can be problematic due to its recessed design, impacting the ease of monitoring vital stats like speed and fuel levels.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2006 Scion tC presents a compelling mix of sporty flair and practical features that resonate with many drivers. Everyday users express satisfaction with the car's sporty aesthetics, which seem to enhance the overall driving experience. Its interior space, often more generous than expected for a compact coupe, adds to the car's appeal, making it suitable for both solo commutes and small group outings. Despite its practicality, some drivers have noted that the hatch handle and sunroof are susceptible to wear, leading to unexpected maintenance hiccups. The car's fuel efficiency, while not the best in its class, generally satisfies drivers' needs, particularly for highway cruising. Sound insulation remains a point of contention, as increased noise levels can sometimes distract from an otherwise pleasant drive. Even with a few maintenance concerns, the vehicle's reliability continues to earn respect, often delivering dependable performance over high mileage and varied driving conditions.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$157/mo for tC Base
tC Base
vs
$157/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Reliability
The 2006 Scion tC has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 5 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
5 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 10V036000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 153418
- Defect Description:
- SOUTHEAST TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2011 PASSENGER VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
- Defect Consequence:
- A DRIVER MAY OVERLOAD A VEHICLE WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.
- Recall Number:
- 10V035000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 271417
- Defect Description:
- GULF STATES TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2010 VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SOLD BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 1, 2005 AND JUNE 2, 2008 WITHOUT THE REQUISITE LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS.
- Defect Consequence:
- THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL MAIL TO CONSUMERS THE CORRECTED LABEL OR THE CUSTOMER WILL HAVE THE OPTION FOR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FREE OF CHARGE. DEALERS WILL ALSO CORRECT THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA AT 713-580-3300.
- Recall Number:
- 06V408000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 60H
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-03-12 to 2006-03-03
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 29542
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE SIDE IMPACT SEAT-BOLSTER AND CURTAIN SIDE AIRBAGS MAY INADVERTENTLY DEPLOY. THIS CONDITION CAN OCCUR IF THE DOOR FOR THAT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE IS CLOSED WITH A HIGH RATE OF FORCE WHILE THE VEHICLE'S IGNITION IS IN THE "ON" POSITION OR WITHIN 90 SECONDS OF TURNING THE IGNITION KEY FROM THE "ON" POSITION TO THE "OFF" POSITION.
- Defect Consequence:
- IF THE SIDE IMPACT SEAT-BOLSTER AND CURTAIN SIDE AIRBAGS INADVERTENTLY DEPLOY, THEY COULD CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY IF AN OCCUPANT IS SEATED ON THE SAME SIDE OF THE VEHICLE AS THE DOOR THAT IS CLOSED WITH A HIGH RATE OF FORCE. UNTIL THE REPAIR HAS BEEN PERFORMED, IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT A MINIMAL FORCE/SPEED BE USED TO CLOSE THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER DOORS OR CLOSING THE DOORS AFTER 90 SECONDS HAVE ELAPSED FROM TURNING THE IGNITION KEY FROM THE "ON" TO THE "OFF" POSITION.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TWO SIDE IMPACT AIRBAG SENSORS AND INSTALL A URETHANE PAD IN THE FRONT DOORS, IF NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 6, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-866-548-1851.
- Recall Number:
- 06V096000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 60B 6LB
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-06-10 to 2005-11-28
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 133
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, DUE TO IMPROPER ASSEMBLY OF THE AIR BAG INFLATOR, WHICH IS USED IN THE SIDE AIR BAG, THE CURTAIN SHIELD AIR BAG, AND THE KNEE AIR BAG ASSEMBLY, SOME INFLATORS WERE PRODUCED WITH AN INSUFFICIENT AMOUNT OF THE HEATING AGENTS NECESSARY FOR PROPER AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT. IN THIS CONDITION, THE EXPANSION FORCE OF THE GAS MAY BE INSUFFICIENT TO PROPERLY INFLATE THE AIR BAG WHEN THE SRS SYSTEM IS ACTIVATED DURING A CRASH.
- Defect Consequence:
- THIS MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE OCCUPANT IN THE INVOLVED SEATING POSITION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SPECIFIC SRS AIR BAG. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 6, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-888-270-9371, SCION AT 1-866-548-1851, OR LEXUS AT 1-800-255-3987.
- Recall Number:
- 05V483000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 50S
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-03-12 to 2005-07-21
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 71392
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A GLASS WIND DEFLECTOR, THE DEFLECTOR, IF IMPACTED BY A PROJECTILE, SUCH AS ROAD DEBRIS, WHILE DRIVING WITH THE WIND DEFLECTOR IN THE UPWARD-TILTED POSITION AT HIGHWAYS SPEEDS, MAY SHATTER AND SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME.
- Defect Consequence:
- PIECES OF THE WIND DEFLECTOR GLASS MAY SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME AND FALL UPON THE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS CAUSING DRIVER DISTRACTION AND/OR INJURY.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL A PROTECTIVE LAMINATE TO THE WIND DEFLECTOR TO PREVENT PIECES OF GLASS FROM SEPARATING FROM THE WIND DEFLECTOR FRAME. THE RECALL BEGAN OCTOBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-866-707-2466.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited miles
Scion tC Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(81%)
4(15%)
3(3%)
2(1%)
1(0%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Great car
4.75 out of 5 starslk4d4, 04/04/2013
2006 Scion tC 2dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
Bought my 06 tC in may 2006 with 53 miles on it, now up to 210,000+ miles.
No major issues what so ever. I still have the original car battery, which is impressive. I did have to add some distilled water into it after 6 years, no big feat there.
I have a short RAM intake, Borla axle back exhaust, which after adding bumped my MPG to about 31-33 hwy.
Most of my driving is hwy, my daily … commute is 60 mi each way. and I drive frequently from San Diego to Sacramento, roughly 550 mi each way. The tC is comfortable enough to drive the whole way with no problems. I'm 5'10".
Very easy to maintain. Easy access to the oil filter, I always check the placement of that on cars before buying.
Great Car
4.75 out of 5 starsenginerdtrav, 03/13/2014
2006 Scion tC 2dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
I bought my car new in 2006 with 20 miles on it.
I now have put 170,000 miles on it and the only issue I have had is the trunk handle breaking, which is a very common problem.
Other than that it has run perfectly and not cost me an extra penny beyond standard maintenance.
I'm going to keep driving it until the tires fall off which probably won't be for awhile.
I certainly have gotten my … money out of this car.
2006
3.88 out of 5 starsdjmcruz, 05/11/2010
2006 Scion tC 2dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
MY 2006 Scion tc . ROCKS! 115,000 miles on it. The only thing replaced so far were Brakes,Tires every 50,000 and synthetic oil changes every 5,000.and what ever the services needed. The car does have a couple of squeeks and rattles but in all GREAT car.
College Student with Hopes
4.63 out of 5 starssoros151, 11/16/2006
2006 Scion tC 2dr Hatchback (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Since I saw this vehicle I fell in love with it. At first I found the shifting to be quite smooth, but since I changed the shifter it has a "racer" feeling. Don't get me wrong, I don't street race, I'm truly against it and I work with one association against it. The car feels nimble enough to take on any vehicle, yet balanced enough to be comfortable on the road. If you want an economic … car, for under $20,000 and still be able to enjoy going to the track, then this is your car. Don't believe me? Go try one now.
2006 tC Features & Specs
| Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $16,300 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 22 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $157/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 12.8 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the tC include:
- Tire Pressure Warning
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
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