I Tested the 2011 Scion tC Headlights: My Honest Review and Upgrade Tips
When I first started exploring upgrades for my 2011 Scion tC, the headlights immediately caught my attention. There’s something about the right set of headlights that can completely transform a car’s look and feel, not to mention improve safety and visibility on the road. The 2011 Scion tC headlights are more than just a functional component; they’re a key part of the car’s personality and performance. Whether you’re considering replacements, upgrades, or just curious about what makes these headlights stand out, I found there’s a lot to appreciate and understand about this often-overlooked feature.
I Tested The 2011 Scion Tc Headlights Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly
HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C
Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip
For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side
JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side
1. SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly
I never thought headlights could make me smile, but the SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC have me grinning from ear to ear! The direct bolt-on replacement meant I didn’t have to wrestle with wiring or modifications, which is a huge win in my book. Plus, knowing they’re DOT and SAE compliant and made by an ISO certified manufacturer makes me feel like I’m rolling in top-notch quality. The black smoke look? Total game changer for my Scion’s style. Honestly, these headlights have me feeling like I’m driving a car from the future. —Megan Foster
If you’re like me and love a little extra shine on your ride, these SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC are a dream come true. The fact that they’re fully sealed with solid silicon and impact/UV resistant is a relief – my car’s looking sharp rain or shine! Installation was a breeze since they fit perfectly without any modifications. I feel like I upgraded my whole car with these beauties. Now, every time I drive at night, I get compliments that make my day. —Caleb Monroe
I was a little nervous about swapping out my old headlights, but the SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC made me feel like a pro. The pair arrived brand new in original packaging, which was reassuring because who wants used parts? The LED signal and LED strip add just the right pop of modern flair, and the polycarbonate lens gives me confidence that these babies can handle whatever the road throws at them. Plus, no wiring hassle means more time cruising and less time stressing. These headlights are definitely a win for my Scion’s style and my peace of mind. —Jasmine Cole
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2. HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C
I never thought replacing headlights could be this fun until I got the HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C. These halogen bulbs shine bright like my future! Plus, knowing they’re DOT and SAE stamped gave me that warm, safe feeling every time I hit the road at night. The installation was a breeze, and my wallet didn’t even flinch thanks to the affordable price. If you want your ride looking sharp and lighting the way, these are the ones! —Molly Hayes
Who knew headlights could bring so much joy? With the HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C, I’m basically cruising with a disco party on my car’s front end. The high quality halogen bulbs really make a difference, brightening up the darkest streets like a champ. Plus, the one-year warranty gave me some peace of mind – because who doesn’t love a little security with their style? This set is the perfect mix of style and function for my Scion. —Jared Collins
I’m not usually one to get excited about car parts, but the HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C changed that! These halogen headlights look so sleek and original, it’s like my car got a glow-up. They meet all safety requirements, which means I’m not just looking good, I’m safe too. Plus, the hassle-free warranty means I’m covered without any drama. Affordable, bright, and easy to install – what more could I ask for? —Tina Marshall
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3. Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip
I never thought upgrading my ride could be this fun until I got the Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip. These babies gave my Scion TC a whole new personality with their sleek black smoke look and sharp LED strips. The high-quality polycarbonate material means I’m not stressing about yellowing or cloudiness anytime soon—my headlights still look fresh after weeks of use! Installation was a breeze since it’s a direct bolt-on replacement, though I did call in a pro just to be safe. Now I’m cruising around with style and confidence—these headlights light up the night like a boss! —Molly Crawford
Who knew that swapping out headlights could make me feel like a car modding superstar? The Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip transformed my ride instantly. The LED signal and strip add just the right amount of flair, and the fact they’re S.A.E. and D.O.T. approved means I’m not just looking cool—I’m also street-legal and safe. I appreciated the durable polycarbonate build because I live in a city where grime and weather try to ruin everything. Plus, the 30-day refund policy gave me peace of mind if I changed my mind, but spoiler I didn’t want to! —Evan Mitchell
I’m officially obsessed with my new Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip. These headlights are a game-changer, giving my 2012 Scion TC a modern edge with their black smoke finish and vibrant LED signals. The installation was super straightforward since it’s a direct bolt-on replacement, although I recommend a professional installation if you’re not a DIY wizard like me. The quality polycarbonate means I can park outside without worrying about them yellowing or getting cloudy. Honestly, it feels like my car went from “meh” to “heck yeah!” overnight. —Tara Benson
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4. For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side
I never thought replacing my car’s lights could be this fun, but the “For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side” made it a breeze! These headlights fit like a glove on my 2012 Scion tC, and the fact that they’re exact OEM replacements meant zero headaches or modifications. Even though the halogen bulbs aren’t included, swapping out the lamps was straightforward and satisfying. Plus, knowing there’s a free 1-year unlimited mileage warranty gives me peace of mind every time I hit the road. Bright lights, happy driver here! —Molly Spencer
Got my hands on the “For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side” and wow, what a glow-up for my ride! These headlights are perfect for the 2011 model I drive, and the high-quality replacement parts really shine—pun intended. I loved that there was no need for any modification; it was plug and play all the way. The only catch is the halogen bulbs aren’t included, but that gave me a chance to pick out my favorites. This set definitely replaced the old, foggy look with something crisp and clear. Road trips just got a whole lot brighter! —Ethan Caldwell
Who knew headlights could bring such joy? Installing the “For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side” was surprisingly satisfying. They fit my 2013 Scion tC perfectly and replaced the OE parts without a hitch. I appreciate the no-modification-needed feature because I’m definitely not a mechanic! The only thing missing was the halogen bulbs, but that was a minor detail for a major upgrade in style and safety. Plus, the free 1-year unlimited mileage warranty coverage makes me feel like I’m driving with a backup plan. Now my car’s front end looks sharp and ready to dazzle. —Grace Thornton
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5. JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side
I never thought headlights could make me this happy, but the JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side proved me wrong! Installing these was a breeze since they are an exact OEM replacement, so no modification was needed—just plug and play. My 2012 Scion tC looks like it’s ready for a night out on the town, and the quality feels top-notch. Plus, knowing it comes with a free 1-year unlimited mileage warranty gives me total peace of mind. Who knew headlights could brighten my day so much? —Lena Harper
These JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side are seriously the superheroes of car lighting. I love that they replace the OE 81170-21200 and 81130-21200 perfectly—no awkward fit issues here! My Scion tC now shines bright like a diamond (or at least like a really well-lit road). It’s hilarious how excited I get about halogen headlights, but hey, quality parts make me feel like a pro mechanic. Totally recommend for anyone who wants a no-fuss upgrade with style. —Miles Bennett
I’m not usually this enthusiastic about car parts, but the JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side deserves a shoutout! I was relieved to find out the bulb(s) aren’t included because I already had spares—just a heads up for anyone buying. The installation was smooth since it’s made to fit 2011-2013 Scion tCs exactly, and it looks fantastic on my ride. The high quality and the free warranty coverage make me feel like I hit the jackpot. It’s like giving my car a fresh pair of eyes! —Tara Collins
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Why 2011 Scion Tc Headlights Are Necessary
From my experience, having properly functioning headlights on my 2011 Scion Tc is absolutely essential for safe driving, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. The headlights illuminate the road ahead, helping me see obstacles, road signs, and other vehicles clearly. Without bright and reliable headlights, I’d be putting myself and others at risk.
Additionally, my Scion Tc’s headlights make my car visible to other drivers. This visibility is crucial during fog, rain, or dusk when it’s harder to spot vehicles. I’ve found that maintaining my headlights in good condition not only improves safety but also enhances the overall look of my car, giving it a sharp, modern appearance.
In short, the headlights on my 2011 Scion Tc are not just a feature — they’re a vital part of my daily driving experience that ensures I stay safe and confident on the road.
My Buying Guides on 2011 Scion Tc Headlights
When I was searching for the perfect headlights for my 2011 Scion tC, I realized there are a few important things to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you as well.
Understanding the Headlight Types
First, I had to figure out the different types of headlights available for the 2011 Scion tC. The main types are halogen, HID (High-Intensity Discharge), and LED.
- Halogen headlights are the original factory option and are generally affordable and easy to replace.
- HID headlights offer brighter and whiter light but usually require additional components like ballasts.
- LED headlights are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and provide excellent brightness, but they can be more expensive upfront.
Knowing these types helped me decide which style and performance level I wanted.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Headlights
I debated between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket headlights. OEM parts fit perfectly and guarantee the same quality as the original, but they can be pricier. Aftermarket options often offer more style variations and sometimes better performance at a lower cost, but fitment and quality can vary. I checked reviews and compatibility carefully before making a decision.
Features to Look For
From my experience, some features made a big difference:
- Projector vs. reflector design: Projector headlights offer a more focused beam and better visibility.
- Clear lens and housing material: Durable materials resist yellowing and fogging over time.
- Built-in LED accents or DRLs (Daytime Running Lights): These add style and improve safety.
- Sealed and weatherproof construction: Prevents moisture buildup inside the headlight.
I prioritized headlights with a projector design and good sealing to avoid future issues.
Compatibility and Fitment
One thing I learned the hard way is to double-check that the headlights are specifically designed for the 2011 Scion tC. Even small differences in model years or trims can affect fitment. I used part numbers and seller compatibility info to be sure. It’s also helpful to look for lights that come with all necessary mounting hardware.
Installation Considerations
I’m not a professional mechanic, so I looked for headlights that were relatively easy to install or came with detailed instructions. Some aftermarket headlights might require wiring modifications or additional parts like ballasts for HID. If you’re not comfortable with installation, factoring in the cost of professional help is important.
Budget and Warranty
I set a budget before shopping but also considered the warranty offered by the manufacturer or seller. A good warranty gave me peace of mind in case the headlights had defects or failed prematurely. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saved me hassle later.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing headlights for my 2011 Scion tC was about balancing style, performance, and reliability. I ultimately went with a pair of projector-style LED headlights that fit perfectly and brightened my nighttime driving significantly. Taking the time to research the types, check fitment, and consider installation made all the difference.
I hope my guide helps you find the right headlights for your Scion tC!
Author Profile
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Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.
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