Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2010 Scion TC
The 2010 Scion TC is generally reliable, with minor complaints related to the engine, service brakes, and visibility. Recalls mostly focus on labeling issues rather than mechanical or safety defects. It's a solid choice if potential engine quirks are absent.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2010 Scion TC has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 20 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #10V035000 LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #10V036000 LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY MODIFICATION LABELS NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 7 complaints
- Tires 3 complaints
- Visibility 3 complaints
- Service Brakes 2 complaints
- Unknown or Other 2 complaints
- Air Bags 1 complaint
Of the 20 complaints on file, 2 report a crash; across all 20 complaints, owners report 1 injury (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine reliability concerns
How to check: Inspect for unusual noises or leaks around the engine.
Service brakes issues
How to check: Test brake response and listen for unusual sounds.
Labeling non-compliance
How to check: Verify presence of load capacity labels.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Observe engine idle for roughness or smoke.
Red flag: Rough idle or visible smoke
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Knocking or ticking sounds
- 03
City driving
What to check: Brake for stops and check pedal feel.
Red flag: Spongy brakes or long stopping distance
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for hesitation or power loss.
Red flag: Lag in acceleration
- 05
Parking
What to check: Shift through gears and listen to engine.
Red flag: Delayed response or clunking noise
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have there been any recent repairs?
- When was the last brake service?
- Are there any engine issues?
- Has the vehicle had any recalls addressed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair documents
- Accident history report
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2010 Scion TC at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2010 Scion TC? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.