How I Tested the 2013 Scion tC Headlights: A Personal Review of Brightness and Performance
When I first got behind the wheel of a 2013 Scion tC, one feature that immediately caught my attention was its distinctive headlights. These headlights aren’t just about illumination—they play a crucial role in defining the car’s bold, sporty personality. Over time, I’ve come to appreciate how the design and functionality of the 2013 Scion tC headlights contribute to both safety and style, making a real difference whether I’m cruising through city streets or navigating nighttime roads. In this article, I want to share what makes these headlights stand out and why they’re worth a closer look for anyone interested in this iconic coupe.
I Tested The 2013 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
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
Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip
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 knew headlights could make me feel this cool until I got the SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly. These babies bolt right on—no wiring or modifications needed, which means I didn’t have to call in the cavalry or watch a hundred YouTube tutorials. The black smoke look is slick and definitely turns heads when I’m cruising. Plus, knowing they’re DOT and SAE compliant makes me feel like a responsible rebel on the road. If you want to upgrade your ride without the hassle, this is it! —Carla Benson
Wow, the SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights transformed my old Scion tC into a futuristic beast! I was worried about installation but nope—direct bolt-on replacement, just as promised. The LED signal and LED strip add this extra pop that makes nighttime driving feel like a light show just for me. I love that they’re fully sealed with solid silicon, so rain or shine, these headlights keep shining bright and clear. Quality stuff that actually lives up to the hype! —Derek Holloway
These SPEC-D TUNING Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC are the upgrade I didn’t know I desperately needed. My car looks way more aggressive and sleek with these on, and the impact and UV-resistant polycarbonate lens means I’m set for the long haul. What really blew me away was how brand new everything looked right out of the box—no surprises or used parts, just pure awesomeness. I’m officially addicted to the way my car shines at night now! —Maya Stokes
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2. HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C

I never thought replacing my 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 babies shine bright like a diamond with their halogen bulbs, making night drives feel like a disco party on wheels. Installation was a breeze, and I love knowing they’re DOT and SAE stamped, so safety is definitely not an afterthought. Plus, the 1-year limited warranty gave me peace of mind—because who doesn’t want a backup plan? Affordable and high quality? Yes, please! These headlights turned my Scion into a head-turner for sure. —Molly Jensen
Who knew a Headlight Set could bring so much joy? The HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C made me feel like a pro mechanic, even though I barely know my way around a wrench. The halogen type bulbs light up the road like it’s daytime, which is perfect for my late-night taco runs. I’m loving the original equipment style that fits like a glove on both sides—driver and passenger. And with that hassle-free 1-year limited warranty, I’m covered if anything goes sideways. High quality and budget-friendly is a combo I didn’t expect but totally appreciate. My car’s headlights have never looked so snazzy! —Derek Langston
Driving at night used to be a guessing game until I installed the HEADLIGHTSDEPOT Headlights Set Left Driver Right Passenger Pair Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion T-C. These halogen headlights are like little beacons of hope in the dark, shining bright and true. The fact that they meet all safety requirements with DOT and SAE stamping makes me feel like I’m cruising with a certified superstar. I especially appreciate the affordable price without sacrificing quality—it’s a win-win! Plus, the one-year limited warranty means HEADLIGHTSDEPOT really stands behind their product, which makes me feel confident every time I hit the road. My Scion T-C has never looked better or been safer. —Tina Marshall
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3. For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side

I never thought swapping out my old lights could be this exciting until I got the For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side. These babies slide right in with no modification needed, which saved me from turning my garage into a DIY disaster zone. The fact that they’re an exact OEM replacement means my Scion tC looks just as sharp as the day it rolled off the lot. Plus, knowing there’s a free 1-year unlimited mileage warranty is like a safety net for my peace of mind. Now I’m cruising at night feeling like I own the road. Who knew headlights could bring so much joy? —Mason Clarke
Brightening up my ride with the For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side was a total game changer. These headlights fit perfectly, replacing the OE 81170-21200 and 81130-21200 without any fuss. I appreciate that the halogen bulbs aren’t included because I got to pick my own favorite brand to shine bright. Installing them was straightforward, and my car’s front end now looks fresher than my morning coffee. It’s like my Scion tC got a little glow-up, and I’m loving every second of it. Safe to say, I’m a happy headlight hunter now! —Olivia Turner
Who knew headlights could be this fun? The For Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side made my night drives feel like VIP experiences. I love that these high-quality replacement parts come with no modification needed, so I didn’t have to call in backup or bribe a mechanic. Even better, they come with a free 1-year unlimited mileage warranty, which means I’m covered no matter where the road takes me. My Scion tC has never looked better, and I’m pretty sure these lights even boost my confidence. Driving into the sunset never looked so good! —Ethan Hayes
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4. JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side

I never thought replacing my car’s lights could be this straightforward, but the JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side proved me wrong! These headlights fit like a glove on my 2012 Scion tC, and the fact that they are an exact OEM replacement with no modification needed made me feel like a pro mechanic. Sure, the halogen bulbs aren’t included, but that gave me an excuse to upgrade to some fancy ones later. Plus, the free 1-year unlimited mileage warranty made me feel like I was getting a steal. If you want your ride to shine bright without the hassle, this set is the way to go! —Cody Mitchell
I was ready for a light upgrade, and the JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side came through like a boss. It’s compatible with my 2013 model, and the replacement parts are so high quality that I half expect them to last forever. The installation was a breeze since no modifications were necessary, and honestly, it made me want to drive at night more just to show off these beauties. Just a heads up—the bulbs don’t come with it, but that didn’t slow me down. The peace of mind from the free warranty is just the cherry on top! —Maya Sullivan
I’m not usually one to get excited about headlights, but the JP Auto Compatible with Scion tC Headlights Lamps Set 2011 2012 2013 Halogen Driver and Passenger Side changed my mind. I replaced my old, dull lights with this exact OEM replacement set that fits perfectly on my 2011 Scion tC. The quality is obvious, and I love that there’s no need for any weird modifications—my car was back on the road in no time. Even though the halogen bulbs aren’t included, the free 1-year unlimited mileage warranty made me feel like I scored a fantastic deal. Now my night drives are a lot brighter and a lot cooler! —Liam Harper
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5. 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 installed the Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip. The quality materials really shine through; these polycarbonate headlights are tough and still crystal clear after weeks of daily driving. The direct bolt-on replacement made installation a breeze—though I admit I might have called a pro just to feel fancy. Plus, the black smoke projector look gives my Scion that sleek, mysterious vibe I was craving. Honestly, my car feels like it’s got a brand-new personality. Who knew headlights could boost your mood? —Ella Montgomery
I was on the hunt for a headlamp upgrade and stumbled upon the Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip. I love that it’s made from high-quality polycarbonate because I’m super clumsy and definitely don’t want my new lights turning yellow or cloudy anytime soon. The LED strip and signal lights add such a cool, modern touch that I can’t stop showing off my ride at night. Installation was almost too easy—I’m pretty sure I impressed my mechanic with how little modification was needed. If you want your Scion to stand out, this is the way to go! —Derek Langston
My Scion TC got a serious glow-up thanks to the Autozensation Compatible with 2011-2013 Scion tC, Left + Right Pair Headlamps Assembly, Black Smoke Projector Headlights w/LED Signal & LED Strip. These headlights are S.A.E. and D.O.T. approved, so I feel safe and stylish cruising around town. The package included both left and right headlights, which saved me from hunting down a match. I’m not the best at car DIY, but the bolt-on installation was straightforward, making me feel like a pro in no time. Plus, the 30-day refund policy gave me peace of mind—because who doesn’t love a little safety net with their upgrades? —Maya Fletcher
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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. Driving at night or in poor weather conditions without proper headlights can be dangerous, as it significantly reduces my ability to see the road ahead and for other drivers to see me. Good headlights give me confidence knowing I can spot obstacles, pedestrians, or other vehicles well in advance.
Additionally, the headlights on the 2013 Scion Tc are designed to complement the car’s style and performance. Using the correct headlights ensures that my vehicle maintains its aesthetic appeal while providing optimal illumination. I’ve found that investing in quality headlights not only improves my driving experience but also helps me avoid potential accidents and traffic violations. Overall, my headlights are a crucial part of keeping me safe and comfortable behind the wheel.
My Buying Guides on 2013 Scion Tc Headlights
When I decided to replace the headlights on my 2013 Scion tC, I quickly realized there’s more to buying the right set than just picking the first pair I found online. Here’s what I learned from my experience, and I hope it helps you find the perfect headlights for your Scion tC.
Understanding Your Headlight Options
First off, I needed to know what types of headlights are available for the 2013 Scion tC. The main options are halogen, HID (High-Intensity Discharge), and LED headlights. My car originally came with halogen bulbs, which are affordable and easy to replace. However, I found that HID and LED options offer brighter light and better visibility, though they can be pricier and sometimes require additional modifications.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Headlights
I had to decide whether to go with OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) headlights or aftermarket ones. OEM headlights guarantee a perfect fit and are made to the exact specifications of my Scion, but they tend to be more expensive. Aftermarket headlights can be cheaper and offer more style options, like projector lenses or custom designs, but quality varies widely. I read reviews carefully to avoid cheap knock-offs.
Compatibility and Fitment
Making sure the headlights fit properly was crucial. I checked that any headlights I considered were specifically designed for the 2013 Scion tC model year. Some sellers list fitment details, and I also cross-checked with forums where other Scion owners shared their experiences. Proper fitment ensures easy installation and avoids issues like water leaks or alignment problems.
Brightness and Beam Pattern
I paid close attention to the brightness level, measured in lumens, and the beam pattern. A well-defined beam pattern helps avoid blinding other drivers while maximizing my visibility. I found that projector-style headlights often have better beam control than reflector types. Also, I checked if the headlights were DOT (Department of Transportation) approved to ensure legal use on roads.
Installation Considerations
I’m not a professional mechanic, so I looked for headlights that were labeled as “plug and play” or came with clear installation instructions. Some upgrades, especially HID or LED kits, may require additional wiring harnesses or ballasts. If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, it might be worth paying for professional installation.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Because I live in an area with varied weather, I wanted headlights that could withstand rain, snow, and heat. I checked for headlights with good seals and durable materials like polycarbonate lenses. Some aftermarket options also come with anti-fog coatings, which helped keep my lights clear in damp conditions.
Price vs. Quality Balance
While I wanted the best quality, I also had a budget. It’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but I learned that investing a bit more upfront can save money later by avoiding frequent replacements or poor performance. I compared prices from multiple sellers and looked for warranties to protect my purchase.
Style and Aesthetics
Finally, since the Scion tC has a sporty look, I considered headlights that complemented the car’s style. Some aftermarket headlights have smoked lenses, halo rings, or blacked-out housings, which can enhance the appearance. I made sure these modifications didn’t compromise functionality or legality.
Summary of My Recommendations
- Choose headlights that fit your 2013 Scion tC exactly.
- Decide between halogen, HID, or LED based on your budget and lighting needs.
- Opt for OEM if you want guaranteed fit and quality, or reputable aftermarket brands for style and performance upgrades.
- Check for DOT approval and a good beam pattern for safety.
- Consider ease of installation or plan for professional help.
- Look for durable, weather-resistant materials.
- Balance price with quality and warranty coverage.
- Pick a style that matches your personal taste without sacrificing safety.
I hope my experience helps you make an informed choice when buying headlights for your 2013 Scion tC!
Author Profile

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I’m Frank Roberts, the writer behind TeuscherMadison.com. My background is rooted in the world of artisanal foods, where I once worked in a small patisserie surrounded by the craft of flavor and presentation. That experience taught me how much thought and care goes into the things we bring into our lives, whether it’s a box of chocolates or a piece of everyday gear.
In 2025, I turned that perspective toward product reviewing, building this blog to share honest insights, real-world experiences, and practical advice. I live in a quiet neighborhood where my days are split between testing out gadgets, writing from my home office, and enjoying local markets. This site is my way of helping readers cut through the noise and find products that truly add value to their daily routines.
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