Scion iQ Problems by Year

We compared every Scion iQ model year from 2012–2013 using 22 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, 1 recall and federal defect investigations. No iQ year stands out with an unusual number of complaints.

2model years
22complaints
1recalls
—worst years
—best years

Complaints by model year

20122013175
Owner complaints per model year, Scion iQ. Colour = our verdict for that year (red: avoid, orange: caution, green: better than average, blue: too new).
YearComplaintsvs. typical*RecallsTop problemVerdict
20135—1EngineFew
201217—1BodyLimited data

* Complaints compared with the median iQ year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.

Most common Scion iQ problems

  • Engine & coolingworst: 2013
    941%
  • Body & structureworst: 2012
    732%
  • Air bagsworst: 2012
    523%
  • Other / not specified
    314%
  • Speed control & accelerationworst: 2012
    29%
  • Steeringworst: 2012
    29%
  • Transmission & drivetrainworst: 2012
    15%
  • Lightsworst: 2012
    15%
  • Seat beltsworst: 2012
    15%

Latest Scion iQ recalls

Air bags › Frontal › Sensor/control module-inactive

NHTSA recall 12V-528 · Nov 8, 2012 · 11,153 vehicles

Toyota is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Scion IQ vehicles manufactured July 31, 2011, through October 12, 2012. The cable for the Occupant Classification System (OCS) may become damaged when sliding the passenger seat forward or backward.

Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will install a protective cover on the OCS weight sensor cable. The recall began on December 20, 2013. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

Frequently asked questions

What years of the Scion iQ should you avoid?

None of the Scion iQ years has an unusually high number of complaints compared with the others at the same age.

What are the most common Scion iQ problems?

Across all years, owners report the most problems with the engine & cooling (9), body & structure (7) and air bags (5). Engine complaints peak in the 2013 model year.

How many recalls has the Scion iQ had?

1 recall across 2012–2013. The model year with the most is 2012.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.