In short, the 2013 Scion tC commonly uses H11 bulbs for the low-beam headlights, 9005 bulbs for the high beams, and H11 bulbs for the fog lights if the car is equipped with them.
The 2013 tC sits in the second generation of Scion’s compact coupe lineup and uses a projector-style headlamp design. Bulb specifications can vary by market and trim level, and some owners upgrade to aftermarket HID or LED components. This article outlines the typical stock bulb types and how to verify the exact bulb your vehicle requires.
Headlight bulb types by function
Low-beam, high-beam, and fog light summary
Below is a quick reference to the bulb types used for each headlight function in most US-spec 2013 Scion tC models. Use this as a starting point when buying replacements.
- Low-beam headlights: H11 halogen bulbs (projector-style housing is common in these models).
- High-beam headlights: 9005 halogen bulbs (also known as HB3).
- Fog lights: H11 halogen bulbs where the car is equipped with fog lamps.
Note: Regional trims and aftermarket modifications can alter these numbers. If your vehicle has HID or LED conversions, or if you’re purchasing aftermarket bulbs, the type may differ from the stock configuration.
How to confirm the exact bulb for your car
Step-by-step checks to identify the correct bulb
To ensure you buy the right bulbs for your specific vehicle and market, use these practical checks before purchasing replacements.
- Inspect the current bulb: remove one headlight bulb and read the stamped base code (for example, H11 or 9005) to confirm the exact type.
- Consult the owner’s manual: the manual lists the precise bulb specification for each light and trim level.
- Look for a bulb specification label in the engine bay or near the headlight housing, which can indicate the required bulb type.
- If in doubt, contact a Toyota dealer or use Toyota’s parts lookup with your VIN to verify the exact bulb specification for your market and trim.
With the exact bulb type confirmed, you can choose the correct replacement and maintain proper headlight performance and safety.
Notes on upgrades and regional differences
Regional and aftermarket considerations
Most 2013 Scion tCs sold in North America used halogen projector headlights as the standard configuration, with HID or LED upgrades being common in aftermarket setups or dealer-installed options. If your car previously had HID or LED headlights, the bulb type and wiring/ballast requirements will differ from the stock H11/9005 configuration.
Summary
The 2013 Scion tC’s stock headlights typically use H11 low-beam bulbs, 9005 high-beam bulbs, and H11 fog lights when the vehicle is equipped with fog lamps. Always verify with your owner’s manual or by inspecting the current bulbs, especially if your car has undergone regional specifications, trim differences, or aftermarket upgrades.