Keeping your 2016 Scion IM in top running condition requires more than just regular maintenance; it demands the use of high-quality lubricants designed to handle the specific engineering of its 1.8L 4-cylinder engine. The Scion IM, built on the Toyota platform, is renowned for its efficiency and reliability, but its longevity depends heavily on proper fluid selection. Using the wrong viscosity or an inferior filter can lead to increased wear, reduced fuel economy, and costly repairs down the road. Whether you are driving in extreme cold or enduring the stress of daily stop-and-go traffic, the correct oils and filters ensure your vehicle operates smoothly and efficiently. For those seeking the ultimate AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20, the engine receives maximum protection against horsepower loss and wear.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The top-tier choice for maximum engine protection, offering 75% more protection against horsepower loss and wear while supporting extended drain intervals up to 25,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent balance of performance and value, providing 37% more cleaning power to keep the engine running smoother for up to 20,000 miles.
- AMSOIL OE 0W-20 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A reliable outperformer of conventional oils, specifically formulated to fight sludge and deposits with a 100% synthetic base for those seeking OEM-level protection.
- AMSOIL 0W-20 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Designed uniquely for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, featuring boosted detergents and enhanced anti-wear additives to reduce sludge by 67%.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Features 99 percent filtering efficiency at 20 microns, allowing for lower restriction and providing greater capacity for contaminants than many competing filters.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium OEM-branded alternative that offers improvements in filtration media to ensure reliable protection when paired with AMSOIL OE or High-Mileage oils.
- WIX Air Filter – Features premium media that outperforms standard OEM filters in trapping dust and debris, ensuring clean air enters the engine for better combustion efficiency.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – An Ethylene Glycol 50/50 pre-mix formulation that exceeds OEM requirements and protects cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formula that requires mixing, offering outstanding corrosion protection and a service life of up to 150,000 miles for passenger cars.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic CVT Fluid – Provides exceptional metal-to-metal frictional properties essential for the smooth operation of the Continuously Variable Transmission found in this model.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range to maintain braking safety.
The heart of your 2016 Scion IM is the 2ZR-FEA engine, a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder that delivers power with impressive fuel efficiency. Because this engine operates at precise tolerances, the choice of motor oil is critical. The recommended viscosity is 0W-20 for all temperatures, which provides the best balance of fuel economy and cold-weather starting. This lightweight oil flows quickly to lubricate critical engine components immediately upon startup, reducing wear that occurs during the majority of engine operation. When performing a routine oil change, the system requires 4.4 quarts when including the filter replacement. It is important to check the oil level after the refill and ensure the drain plug is torqued to the correct specification of 27 foot-pounds, with the gasket replaced to prevent leaks.
Beyond the engine, the transmission of the Scion IM plays a pivotal role in its driving dynamics. This vehicle utilizes a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which relies on a specific hydraulic fluid to manage the belt and pulley system that provides seamless acceleration. The correct fluid is vital for preventing slippage and ensuring smooth power delivery. For the 2ZR-FAE engine, the initial fill capacity for the automatic transmission is approximately 1.3 quarts, while a total fill requires 7.9 quarts. AMSOIL 100% Synthetic CVT Fluid is engineered to provide the unique frictional properties required for these transmissions, reducing friction between metal components and extending the service life of the gearbox.
Maintenance of the cooling system is equally important for the longevity of the engine. The Scion IM is equipped with either an ATXL5.9 or MTXL5.9 transmission system, and the coolant capacity reflects these configurations. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a ready-to-use option, offering protection against freezing and boiling while safeguarding aluminum and steel components from corrosion. For those who prefer to mix their own, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant allows for customization and can extend protection up to 150,000 miles or five years. These formulations are phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, silicate, borate, and amine-free, ensuring compatibility with the various metals and elastomers used in the cooling system of modern vehicles.
Braking performance should never be compromised. The hydraulic brake system in the Scion IM requires a fluid that maintains a stable viscosity across a wide range of temperatures. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is designed to resist boiling under heavy braking conditions, ensuring that the pedal remains firm and responsive. This fluid enhances the performance of ABS and traction control systems, which are crucial for safety in adverse weather. Regular fluid changes are recommended to remove moisture and contaminants that can accumulate over time, potentially leading to corrosion in brake lines and calipers.
About the Vehicle: 2016 Scion IM
The 2016 Scion IM represents a unique blend of compact utility and sporty aesthetics within the subcompact hatchback segment. Introduced as a replacement for the xD, the IM was developed to offer a more premium and practical alternative in a compact footprint. Designed by Scion’s California-based studio, the vehicle features a distinctively sharp, aggressive styling that sets it apart from its more conventional competitors. The name “IM” stands for “In Motion,” reflecting the brand’s focus on a vehicle that feels engaged and dynamic to drive.
Under the hood, the 2016 model year continues to utilize the 1.8-liter 2ZR-FE engine, a reliable unit known for its smooth power delivery and excellent fuel economy. This engine produces 132 horsepower, paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with Sport mode. The driving experience is characterized by a comfortable ride quality, despite the vehicle’s short wheelbase, thanks to a suspension tune that balances compliance with responsive handling. The interior is designed with a driver-centric layout, featuring a high dashboard and easy-to-reach controls that enhance ergonomics for both the driver and passenger.
Market positioning for the Scion IM was always about versatility. While it is technically a subcompact car, the hatchback design allows for a versatile cargo area that can accommodate larger items when the rear seats are folded down. This practicality made it a favorite among young professionals and urban dwellers who needed a car that could handle daily commuting while still offering space for weekend adventures or shopping trips. The vehicle’s reputation is built on its reliability, a legacy carried over from its Toyota platform partnership, which is a significant selling point for owners looking for a low-maintenance vehicle. Whether navigating tight city streets or taking a scenic highway drive, the 2016 Scion IM offers a confident and enjoyable driving experience that justifies its place in the compact market.
For owners who do extensive driving or use their vehicle for towing and hauling, the stress on the engine and transmission can be higher than average. In these scenarios, utilizing extended-life synthetic lubricants can provide an added layer of protection. The AMSOIL product line is tested rigorously to ensure that the fluids perform under severe service conditions, preventing the degradation that leads to engine wear and transmission failure. By choosing the right fluids, such as the Signature Series for maximum protection or the Extended-Life line for long intervals, owners can rest assured that their investment is protected regardless of how they drive.
Additionally, air filtration plays a crucial role in the engine’s health. The WIX Air Filter recommended for this vehicle is designed with premium media that outperforms standard OEM filters in trapping dust and debris. This ensures that the air entering the engine is clean, which is vital for maintaining combustion efficiency and preventing internal wear. Similarly, for those looking to optimize fuel system performance, additives like AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver can help restore lost horsepower and clean fuel injectors, further enhancing the driving experience and fuel economy of the Scion IM. For seasonal storage, products like AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer help keep fuel fresh, ensuring the vehicle is ready when needed.
Ultimately, the goal for any 2016 Scion IM owner is to keep their vehicle running as long as possible with minimal issues. By adhering to a maintenance schedule that includes high-quality AMSOIL fluids, filters, and additives, owners can extend the life of their vehicle and maintain its performance characteristics. From the engine oil change to the transmission fluid replacement, every drop of fluid counts towards the overall health of the machine. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or prefer to visit a dealer, ensuring the correct products are used is the key to unlocking the full potential of your Scion IM.