Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2016 Scion TC
The 2016 Scion TC generally holds up well as a used purchase, with minimal recalls primarily concerning optional TRD brake kits and labeling issues. The majority of user complaints focus on miscellaneous categories with few service brakes reports, suggesting a mostly reliable vehicle with some attention needed on recalls and known issues.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2016 Scion TC has 3 NHTSA recall campaigns and 6 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #18E091000 Brake Hose may Rupture Causing Loss of Braking NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V420000 Incorrect Load Carrying Capacity Label/FMVSS 110 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V236000 Incorrect Load Carrying Capacity Label/FMVSS 110 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Unknown or Other 3 complaints
- Seat Belts 1 complaint
- Service Brakes 1 complaint
- Structure 1 complaint
Of the 6 complaints on file, 1 reports a crash; across all 6 complaints, owners report 4 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Brake hoses may fail
How to check: Inspect the brake hoses for wear or fatigue
Service brakes complaints
How to check: Ensure brakes engage smoothly without noise
Incorrect weight labels
How to check: Verify the load capacity labels match documentation
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual engine noises
Red flag: Persistent knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Ensure idle is smooth and consistent
Red flag: Engine roughness or stalling
- 03
Moderate acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth power delivery
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking during acceleration
- 04
Braking
What to check: Feel for firm brake pedal and smooth stop
Red flag: Spongy brake pedal or grinding noises
- 05
Highway speed
What to check: Look for steering stability and alignment
Red flag: Vehicle drift or steering vibration
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have the TRD brake kits been replaced?
- Any recent brake service performed?
- Has the load carrying label been corrected?
- Have there been any accidents reported?
- What is the current mileage on the car?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle history report
- Recent service records
- Recall repair documentation
- Title and registration
- Warranty documents, if any
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2016 Scion TC at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2016 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.