2012 Toyota Scion iQ Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Excellent fuel economy makes it a budget-friendly city car.
- Remarkably tight turning radius is ideal for urban maneuverability and parking.
- Despite its small size, the interior offers a surprisingly comfortable experience for front occupants.
- A single recall concerning the Occupant Classification System (OCS) cable was issued; ensure this has been addressed.
2012 Toyota Scion iQ
Critical Failure Risk
Excellent fuel economy makes it a budget-friendly city car.
Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
City dwellers who frequently navigate tight streets and struggle with parking.
+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers who frequently travel long distances or require significant highway stability.
+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Toyota Scion iQ Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Toyota Scion iQ.
Vehicle Specs
- Body Style
- Hatchback
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See the full 2012 Toyota Scion iQ buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
No complaint hotspot data available yet.
See all common issues in the maintenance guideFirst Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation
Est. shop cost: $75 - $125
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Toyota Scion iQ reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Toyota Scion iQ is 9.7/10. Reliability score is 9.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2012 Toyota Scion iQ for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Toyota Scion iQ?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Toyota Scion iQ is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 71%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Toyota Scion iQ?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Toyota Scion iQ?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2012 Toyota Scion iQ?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Toyota Scion iQ, body style is hatchback.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Toyota Scion iQ?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 3/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2012 Toyota Scion iQ good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2012 Scion iQ is a subcompact city car prioritizing fuel efficiency and maneuverability. Its 1.