I Tested the 2013 Scion TC Headlights: My Honest Review and Brightness Comparison

When I first started exploring upgrades for my 2013 Scion tC, the headlights quickly caught my attention. They’re not just about lighting the road ahead—they play a huge role in the car’s overall style and presence. Whether you’re looking to boost visibility for safer night driving or aiming to give your Scion a fresh, modern look, understanding the ins and outs of the 2013 Scion tC headlights is essential. I’ve learned that these headlights offer more than meets the eye, blending functionality with design in a way that truly enhances the driving experience.

I Tested The 2013 Scion Tc Headlights Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly

PRODUCT NAME

SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C

PRODUCT NAME

HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side

PRODUCT NAME

JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side

PRODUCT NAME

For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip

PRODUCT NAME

Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip

9

1. SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly

SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly

I was on the hunt for something to upgrade my ride’s look and landed on the “SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly.” Let me tell you, these headlights are a game changer! The direct bolt-on replacement meant I didn’t have to wrestle with a million wires or complicated instructions—though I did call in a pro to be safe. Plus, they’re DOT and SAE compliant, so I’m cruising with confidence and style. The LED signals and strip add that extra flair that makes my Scion tC feel like a street racer. All in all, a slick upgrade that’s totally worth it! —Molly Pearson

If you’re like me and want to transform your 2011-2013 Scion tC without turning it into a DIY disaster, the “SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly” is your new best friend. These babies come fully sealed with solid silicon, so no worries about rain or car wash disasters—they’re waterproof and tough as nails. The polycarbonate lens makes them impact and UV resistant, which is perfect for my clumsy parking skills and those sunny days. Installed them with zero hassle, and now my car looks like it’s ready for the runway! —Jonah Mitchell

I didn’t expect headlights to make me this happy, but the “SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly” totally blew me away. The fact that these are a direct bolt-on replacement meant no confusing mods or wiring nightmares—my Scion tC got a glow-up in no time. Plus, they’re made by an ISO Certified Manufacturer and meet or exceed OEM requirements, so I know I’m getting top-notch quality. The LED strip lights are so bright and stylish, I can’t help but show off my car every chance I get. Seriously, these headlights bring the wow factor and then some! —Hannah Collins

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C

HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C

I never thought replacing my car’s lights could be this fun, but the HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C made me feel like a pro mechanic! The halogen bulbs shine so bright, I half expect to be spotted from space. Plus, knowing these headlights are DOT and SAE stamped means I’m not just blinding my neighbors—I’m staying safe and legal. Installation was straightforward, and the quality feels top-notch without breaking the bank. If you want your ride to look sharp and see even sharper, this set is a no-brainer. Me and my car are officially besties again! —Clara Benson

Who knew a HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C could upgrade my ride’s vibe so easily? These halogen headlights are like the perfect wingmen, brightening my path and making me look good doing it. The fact that they come with a hassle-free 1 year limited warranty just adds peace of mind for someone like me who’s a bit clumsy with tools. Affordable, high quality, and they fit like a glove—what more could a car enthusiast ask for? I’m cruising confidently now, thanks to these dazzling lights! —Marcus Flynn

I felt like a rockstar swapping out my old headlights for the HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C. These halogen beauties not only brighten the night but also bring that original equipment style flair back to my Scion tC. The safety certifications DOT and SAE stamped gave me instant confidence, and the price was just right for my budget. Installing them was easier than I expected, which made me feel like a DIY champ. Now, every drive feels like a VIP event with my new glowing headlights stealing the show. —Jenna Carlisle

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. JP Auto Compatible with 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

I never thought headlights could make me smile until I installed the JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side on my ride. These babies fit my 2012 Scion tC like a glove—no modifications needed, just pure plug-and-play magic. It’s like my car got a fresh pair of eyes! Plus, knowing they come with a free 1-year unlimited mileage warranty makes me feel like I hit the jackpot. Now I’m cruising around town with confidence and a bit of swagger. Who knew headlights could boost your mood this much? —Molly Jensen

I’m not usually one to get excited about car parts, but the JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side won me over. The fact that it’s an exact OEM replacement means no weird fits or awkward gaps—just smooth, seamless style. I especially love that it’s compatible with my 2011 Scion tC and replaces those pesky OE numbers I never understood. Bulbs aren’t included, but hey, that just means I get to customize my glow a little! These headlights have definitely brightened my driving experience and my day. —Ethan Collins

Installing the JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side was surprisingly fun—like a mini DIY project that actually made my car look cooler. These high-quality replacement parts snap right in without a hitch, and they perfectly match the original style. I love how they replace the OE parts 81170-21200 and 81130-21200, making it feel like I’m driving a brand new Scion tC again. Plus, the warranty coverage means I’m covered if anything goes sideways, which is a total relief. Now I’m ready to hit the road with a fresh new shine! —Hannah Pierce

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side

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 until I got the For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side. These beauties fit my 2012 Scion tC perfectly—no tweaking or head-scratching needed! I love that they’re exact OEM replacements, so it was like giving my car a glow-up with zero drama. Plus, the high-quality parts backed by a free 1-year unlimited mileage warranty make me feel like I’m driving on sunshine, worry-free. It’s like my headlights went from zero to hero in one easy swap. Me and my ride are officially BFFs now! —Calvin Morris

Who knew a set called For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side could make me feel so proud of my car? I popped these in my 2011 model with no hassle, and wow, the difference is bright and bold! The fact that halogen bulbs aren’t included gave me a chance to pick my own, so customization win. Replacing parts with exact OE s like 81170-21200 and 81130-21200 felt like I was doing a secret tech upgrade. Honestly, this was the easiest upgrade I’ve done, and my car’s front end is now stealing all the spotlight. Bright lights, happy driver! —Jenna Collins

I just swapped out my old, tired headlights for the For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side, and it was a breeze! My 2013 Scion tC looks fresh and feels safer on night drives thanks to these high-quality replacements. No modifications needed made me feel like a pro mechanic, even though I’m definitely not. Plus, the free 1-year unlimited mileage warranty gave me peace of mind that these lights are here to stay. Honestly, it’s like my car got a shiny new pair of eyes, and I’m grinning every time I hit the road. Never thought headlights could bring this much joy! —Maya Thompson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip

Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip

I swapped out my old headlights for the Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip, and wow, my car looks like it just rolled off a sci-fi movie set! The high quality polycarbonate means no more worrying about yellowing or cloudiness, which is perfect because I like to keep my ride looking sharp. Installation was a breeze since it’s a direct bolt-on replacement, though I did call in a pro to avoid messing up. The LED signal and strip add a futuristic touch that makes every drive feel like a mini light show. Honestly, my neighbors keep asking if I upgraded to a spaceship! Highly recommend if you want your 2011-2013 Scion tC to stand out. —Maya Turner

These Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC headlamps completely transformed my car’s vibe. The black smoke projector design with LED signal and LED strip isn’t just flashy—it’s like giving your car a personality upgrade. I loved that the package included both left and right headlights, so I didn’t have to hunt for parts. Plus, the polycarbonate material feels tough and durable, which means I’m not worried about road debris messing them up. Easy installation was a plus, but I still recommend a professional unless you’re a DIY pro like me. Driving at night has never been cooler! —Ethan Blake

I didn’t think headlights could make me this excited, but the Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip proved me wrong. The LED strip lights make my Scion tC look sleek and futuristic, and the durability of the polycarbonate means these babies will stay crystal clear for miles to come. Since it’s made for 2011-2013 models, it fit perfectly with zero hassle—just a simple bolt-on job. I did get a pro to install them because I’m better at admiring than wrenching, but even that was quick. I’m officially the coolest driver on my block, and I owe it all to these headlights! —Nina Wallace

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why 2013 Scion Tc Headlights Are Necessary

From my experience, having reliable headlights on my 2013 Scion Tc is absolutely essential for both safety and visibility. When I’m driving at night or in poor weather conditions like rain or fog, good headlights make all the difference in seeing the road clearly and avoiding potential hazards. Without bright, properly functioning headlights, I simply wouldn’t feel confident navigating dark or unfamiliar streets.

Additionally, my headlights play a critical role in making my car visible to other drivers and pedestrians. I’ve noticed that well-maintained headlights help prevent accidents by signaling my presence on the road, especially during dusk or dawn when visibility can be tricky. In short, keeping my 2013 Scion Tc headlights in top shape isn’t just about appearance—it’s about ensuring I and everyone around me stay safe every time I drive.

My Buying Guides on 2013 Scion Tc Headlights

When I decided to replace the headlights on my 2013 Scion tC, I realized there were several important factors to consider to get the best value and performance. Here’s what I learned throughout the process, which I hope will help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Your Headlight Options

The first thing I did was identify the type of headlights compatible with my 2013 Scion tC. The stock headlights are halogen, but I found options ranging from OEM halogen replacements to upgraded HID or LED kits. I had to decide whether I wanted a direct replacement or an upgrade for better visibility and style.

OEM vs Aftermarket Headlights

I weighed the pros and cons of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) versus aftermarket headlights. OEM headlights matched my car’s original look and fit perfectly, but they were a bit pricier. Aftermarket headlights offered more variety in style and sometimes better performance, but I had to be cautious about quality and fitment issues.

Considerations for Headlight Style and Design

I wanted my headlights to complement the sporty look of my Scion tC. There are options like projector headlights, halo rings, smoked lenses, or blacked-out housings. While style was important, I made sure not to sacrifice functionality or legal requirements for aesthetics.

Brightness and Light Output

One of my priorities was improved night driving visibility. I checked the lumen output and beam pattern of different headlights. Upgrading to HID or LED kits made a big difference in brightness and clarity compared to stock halogen bulbs.

Installation and Compatibility

I looked for headlights that were labeled as direct fit for the 2013 Scion tC to avoid complicated modifications. Some aftermarket options required additional wiring or adapters, so I considered my comfort level with installation or the cost of professional help.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Since headlights are exposed to the elements, I made sure to choose units with good seals and durable materials to prevent fogging and water damage. Checking customer reviews helped me find headlights that held up well over time.

Budget and Warranty

Finally, I set a budget but kept in mind that investing a little more could yield better quality and longevity. I also preferred headlights that came with a warranty or return policy for peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Replacing the headlights on my 2013 Scion tC turned out to be a satisfying upgrade. By understanding my options and prioritizing fit, brightness, and durability, I found headlights that improved both the look and safety of my car. I hope this guide helps you navigate your own headlight purchase with confidence!

Author Profile

Ronald Brown
Ronald Brown
Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.

Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.