2006 Scion xA Grille: Facelift Fitment, Part Numbers, and Replacement

The Critical 2006 Scion xA Facelift: One Year Only

The most important thing to know when buying a grille for a Scion xA is that the 2006 model has a unique, one-year-only front-end design. For this model year, Scion updated the front bumper, headlights, and grille assembly. This means parts from a 2004 or 2005 Scion xA are not compatible with a 2006 model. Before purchasing any grille component, it is essential to verify you own a 2006 model, which can be identified by its revised bumper styling and turn signals integrated into the side mirrors.

Understanding the 2006 Grille Components

The term "grille" for the 2006 xA actually refers to several distinct parts that can be replaced independently. It is not a single assembly.

• Upper Radiator Grille: This is the main grille located between the headlights. It is often factory-painted to match the body color.
• Lower Bumper Grille: This is the black, honeycomb-style mesh insert located in the center opening of the front bumper cover.
• Lower Bumper Inserts (Fog Light Covers): These are the smaller inserts on the driver and passenger sides of the lower bumper. On models without fog lights, they are solid plastic covers.

Symptoms of a Failing or Damaged Grille

Failure of a grille is almost always due to physical damage rather than mechanical wear. Here’s what to look for:

• Cracks, Holes, or Dents: Impacts from road debris, parking blocks, or minor collisions are the most common cause of damage. This can compromise the protection of the radiator and condenser.
• Broken Mounting Tabs: The plastic tabs and clips that hold the grille to the bumper are fragile. If they break, the grille can become loose, rattle, or even fall out completely while driving.
• Faded or Peeling Finish: On the body-colored upper grille, sun exposure and age can cause the paint to fade or the clear coat to peel, negatively impacting the vehicle's appearance.

Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs

While there are no recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) specifically for the grille components of the 2006 Scion xA, there is a critical safety recall for the vehicle you should be aware of.

• NHTSA Recall #18V-776: This recall addresses a defect in the airbag control unit that could cause the airbags to become deactivated or deploy unexpectedly. This increases the risk of injury or a crash. The remedy involves replacing the airbag control unit free of charge at a dealership. Verify if this recall work has been performed on any vehicle you are working on or purchasing.

There are no other common factory defects associated with the grille itself. Issues are almost always related to external damage or impact.

Buying a Used 2006 Scion xA Grille: Inspection Guide

Buying a used OEM grille is an excellent way to save money, but a careful inspection is crucial to ensure you get a quality part. Cheap aftermarket alternatives often suffer from poor fitment and use brittle plastic.

Inspection Checklist:

1. Confirm the Model Year: First and foremost, ensure the donor vehicle is a 2006 Scion xA. Ask for a photo of the front of the car if possible to verify the facelift design.
2. Inspect All Mounting Points: This is the most critical step. Carefully check every single mounting tab, clip, and screw hole on the back of the grille. Even one broken tab can cause a poor fit or rattling. Do not purchase a grille with broken tabs unless you are prepared to attempt a plastic repair.
3. Look for Hidden Cracks: Flex the grille gently and inspect it under good light. Look for hairline cracks, especially radiating from the screw holes or corners. What looks like a small scratch could be a crack that will worsen during installation.
4. Check the Finish (Upper Grille): If buying a painted upper grille, check the paint condition. Look for deep scratches, peeling clear coat, or signs of a cheap repaint. If it doesn't match your car's color, factor in the cost of having it professionally painted.
5. Examine the Mesh (Lower Grille): For the lower honeycomb grille, ensure none of the mesh sections are broken or pushed in. Check for warping from heat or sun exposure.

Cost Comparison: 2006 Scion xA Grille Components

Installation Guide & Difficulty

Replacement difficulty varies significantly depending on which grille component you are replacing.

Upper Radiator Grille Replacement (Difficulty: 1/5)

This is a very simple procedure that can be done with basic tools in under 15 minutes.

1. Open the hood.
2. Locate the plastic clips (typically four) holding the top of the grille to the radiator support.
3. Using a flathead screwdriver or trim tool, pop the center pin up on each clip, then pull the entire clip out.
4. With the top clips removed, firmly pull the grille straight up. This will release the lower retaining hooks that secure it to the bumper cover.
5. To install the new grille, align the bottom hooks with their slots in the bumper, press it down into place, and reinstall the upper retaining clips.

Lower Center Grille Replacement (Difficulty: 3/5)

Replacing the lower grille insert is more involved because it requires removing the entire front bumper cover.

1. Begin by removing the upper grille as described above. This will expose bolts or clips at the top of the bumper cover.
2. Remove the bolts (typically 10mm) in each front wheel well that secure the corner of the bumper to the fender.
3. Look for screws and plastic clips along the bottom edge of the bumper cover where it attaches to the splash shield and subframe. Remove all of them.
4. Once all fasteners are removed, gently but firmly pull the sides of the bumper cover away from the fenders to release the clips holding it in place.
5. Carefully pull the bumper cover forward. If you have fog lights, disconnect the wiring harnesses before fully removing the bumper.
6. With the bumper cover off the car and placed on a soft surface, you can access the tabs and clips on the back that hold the lower grille in place. Release them to remove the old grille and snap the new one in.
7. Reinstallation is the reverse of removal.

Technical Specifications & Part Numbers

These are the primary OEM part numbers for the 2006 Scion xA. Note that the upper grille part number may vary based on the factory color.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)