2008 Scion xB Condenser Fan: Decoding the Critical Mid-Year Design Change
This guide covers the common failure symptoms, replacement costs, and crucial production date information for the 2008 Scion xB A/C condenser fan assembly.
- The most critical factor is the vehicle's production date; this part fits 2008 Scion xB models built through February 2008 only.
- Primary symptoms of failure are A/C blowing warm air at idle and the engine overheating in stop-and-go traffic.
- Diagnosis is simple for a DIYer: check fuses, then test for power at the motor or apply 12V directly from a battery.
- Ignoring a failed fan can lead to catastrophic engine damage from overheating, making it a critical repair.
Key Symptoms of a Failing 2008 Scion xB Condenser Fan
A failing condenser fan assembly on a 2008 Scion xB will produce distinct and noticeable symptoms. Because the fans serve both the A/C and engine cooling systems, you may notice problems with either one. The most common sign of failure is an A/C that blows warm air when the car is idling or in stop-and-go traffic, but gets cold once the car is moving at a consistent speed. This happens because driving forces enough air through the condenser to cool the refrigerant, temporarily doing the broken fan's job.
- A/C Blows Warm at Idle: The most frequent complaint. The A/C works on the highway but stops cooling at a red light or in a parking lot.
- Engine Overheating in Traffic: The second major symptom. The engine temperature gauge will climb when you are stationary but may return to normal when you start driving again. This is a serious condition that can lead to severe engine damage if ignored.
- Fans Not Spinning: A simple visual check can confirm the problem. With the engine warm and the A/C turned on, both fans should be spinning. If one or both are stationary, the assembly is faulty.
- Loud or Grinding Noises: Worn-out fan motor bearings can create a loud whirring, grinding, or rattling sound from the front of the engine bay when the fans are supposed to be running.
- Blown Fuses or Relays: A seized or failing fan motor can draw excessive electrical current, causing the corresponding fuse or relay to fail. If a new fuse blows immediately, it strongly indicates a bad fan motor.
Critical Compatibility Warning: Check Your Production Date!
For the 2008 model year, Scion used two different condenser fan assembly designs. This part fits 2008 Scion xB models built through February 2008 (02/08). Vehicles manufactured after this date may use a different fan motor and shroud design. Many online parts catalogs incorrectly list one part for the entire 2008-2015 range, which can lead to buying an incompatible part. You MUST verify your vehicle's production date before ordering.
To find the production date, open the driver's side door and look for a black and white sticker on the door jamb (the B-pillar). The month and year of manufacture (e.g., "11/07" for November 2007) are printed in the upper right corner of this label. If your date is 02/08 or earlier, this guide applies to your vehicle.
Diagnosing the Fan Assembly
If you suspect a fan failure, diagnosis is straightforward and can be done with basic tools.
- Check Fuses and Relays: Consult your owner's manual to locate the fuses and relays for the cooling fans. A blown fuse is a simple fix, but you must determine why it blew.
- Visual Inspection: With the engine off, look for obvious damage like cracked fan blades or obstructions that prevent the fans from spinning.
- Test for Power: With the engine warm and A/C on, carefully use a multimeter to check for voltage at the fan motor's electrical connector. If you have 12V power and ground but the fan isn't spinning, the motor is bad.
- Direct Power Test: The most definitive test. Disconnect the fan's electrical plug and use jumper wires to apply 12V directly from the car battery to the motor's terminals. If the fan doesn't spin, the motor has failed and needs to be replaced.
Buying a Used 2008 Scion xB Condenser Fan Assembly
A used OEM fan assembly can be a reliable and cost-effective alternative to expensive new parts, especially when compared to lower-quality aftermarket options. Here’s what to look for when buying a recycled part.
What to Inspect:
- Verify the Production Date: Before anything else, confirm the donor vehicle's production date matches the early 2008 range (built on or before 02/08). Ask the seller to check the door jamb sticker.
- Check the Fan Blades: Inspect each blade for cracks, especially around the hub where they meet the motor. Old, brittle plastic can fracture under stress.
- Spin the Blades by Hand: With the assembly unplugged, gently spin each fan blade. They should rotate smoothly with minimal resistance and no grinding or gritty feeling. Any noise or wobble indicates bad motor bearings.
- Examine the Shroud: Check the plastic shroud for any cracks or broken mounting tabs. A damaged shroud may not mount securely, leading to vibration and noise.
- Inspect the Electrical Connectors: Look at the plugs and wiring. Ensure the connectors aren't cracked, corroded, or have any cut or damaged wires.
Pro Tip: For this specific part, a high-quality used OEM assembly is often a better choice than a cheap new aftermarket unit. The original Toyota/Scion motors and fan blades are typically made from more durable materials and are better balanced, leading to a longer service life and quieter operation.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
As of mid-2024, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Toyota or the NHTSA for the A/C condenser fan assembly on the 2008 Scion xB. While there are several recalls for this model year, they pertain to issues like airbags and window switches. There is a well-known warranty enhancement for excessive oil consumption on the 2AZ-FE engine, but this is unrelated to the cooling system fans.
Cost Comparison for 2008 Scion xB Fan Assembly
Prices can vary based on supplier and location. The fan assembly can be sold as a complete unit (shroud, motors, and blades) or as individual components. The costs below are estimates for the complete assembly.
| Part Type | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Dealer) | $350 - $500+ (Can be much higher if motors and shroud are sold separately) |
| New Aftermarket | $120 - $280 |
| Used OEM (Recycled) | $75 - $150 |
| Shop Labor Cost | $100 - $200 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I find my 2008 Scion xB's production date?
Open the driver's door and locate the sticker on the door jamb. The manufacture date, shown as month and year (e.g., 01/08), is typically in the top right corner. This is essential to ensure you buy the correct fan assembly for your car.
Can I just replace the fan motor instead of the whole assembly?
Yes, the fan motors can often be purchased separately and unbolted from the shroud. This can be a cheaper option if only one motor has failed and the shroud and other fan are in good condition. However, replacing the entire assembly is often easier and ensures all components are fresh, as the second motor may not be far from failing itself.
Is the driver's side fan the same as the passenger's side?
Yes, on the 2008 Scion xB, the assembly includes two fans. The replacement part numbers provided in the initial data suggest that the same motor fits both the left (driver) and right (passenger) side positions within the shroud.
What happens if I ignore a failing condenser fan?
Ignoring a bad fan will, at a minimum, leave you without A/C in slow traffic. More critically, it creates a significant risk of engine overheating, which can lead to catastrophic damage like a blown head gasket, warped cylinder head, or complete engine failure. The cost of these repairs can be thousands of dollars, making the fan assembly a crucial maintenance item.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 16711-28400 1671128400 16363-28390 1636328390 16361-28320 1636128320 16361-28330 1636128330 16363-28400 1636328400
Dual fan assembly mounted in a plastic shroud. Powered by 12V DC electric motors.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Scion xB: