Check for signs of moisture and mildew down low in the front of the tC’s cabin, which could be evidence of a blockage in the air conditioning drain line, designed to channel condensation out of the car. If blocked, water can accumulate within the system or drip into the cabin carpeting under the dash area, causing yucky smells. In extreme cases, the water can short out the fan motor. The fix is to remove a drain tube and probe through it with a pipe-cleaner or piece of weed-whacker wire to clear it.

Note that a squeaky clutch pedal is likely not actually the pedal at all, but a linkage under the tC’s hood. This annoying noise can usually be remedied with a little strategically placed blast of lithium grease or WD40.

Have a mechanic scan the tC’s engine control computer for signs of hidden trouble codes, which could be evidence of a sensor-related issue. These may not necessarily cause a check engine light to illuminate. Trouble with throttle position and mass air flow sensors aren’t unheard of, so this simple checkup may reveal a potentially pricey repair bill that’s waiting to surface. Note that bad sensors can also cause excessive fuel consumption and poor or sporadic performance.

As the tC is a low-cost sporty model, shoppers are advised to fully check the condition of the brakes, clutch and tires to ensure the car wasn’t used as an aspiring teenage racecar driver’s plaything, driven hard, and denied maintenance. Excessive wear to tires, pads, rotors or the clutch, evidenced by slipping or rough and noisy clutch engagement, should all be called into pricing negotiations. Ensure the seller was fond of on-time fluid changes relating to the engine oil, coolant, and transmission, noting that fresh brake and power steering fluid will typically extend the service life of all affected components, too.

A note on modifications. Scion tC will be difficult to track down in the used market without some form of modification, given the nature of the car and its shopper. If the model you’re considering has upgraded wheels, an air intake and an exhaust kit, there’s typically no cause for alarm provided the parts and installation work are both of high quality. Models with lowered suspension, wheel camber modifications, forced induction via turbocharging or supercharging, or fitted with full, aftermarket body kits should typically be avoided by the average shopper. Any of these modifications can affect the durability and longevity of vehicle finish and components, especially if they’re of low quality, or improperly installed.

The Verdict: Looks like a used and relatively unmodified tC should make a solid choice in a coupe that’s roomy and flexible, reliable, fun to drive, decent on fuel and unique on the road. Find as close to stock a used model you can find, and have a mechanic give a once over before your purchase for maximum peace of mind.

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