So, you're thinking about tackling a 2012 Scion tC transmission removal? Alright, guys, let's dive into it! Removing a transmission might seem intimidating, but with the right tools, a bit of know-how, and a lot of patience, you can totally do this. This guide is designed to walk you through each step, ensuring you get that old transmission out and a new one in (or the old one back in, if you're just doing maintenance) without too many headaches. Remember, safety first! Make sure you've got your safety glasses on, the car is properly supported, and you've disconnected the battery. This isn't a race; it's a careful, methodical process.

Preparing for the Transmission Removal

Before we even think about wrenches and sockets, preparation is key. Proper preparation not only makes the job smoother but also significantly reduces the risk of injury or damage to your vehicle. First off, gather all the necessary tools. You'll need a good socket set (metric, of course, since we're dealing with a Japanese car), wrenches, a transmission jack (absolutely essential, trust me), jack stands, wheel chocks, penetrating oil, and some good old-fashioned hand cleaner. Don't forget a digital camera or smartphone to take pictures as you go. This will be your best friend when it's time to put everything back together.

Next, secure your Scion tC. Park it on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks to prevent any unwanted rolling. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels before lifting the car. Once that's done, use a jack to lift the car and securely place it on jack stands. Never, ever work under a car supported only by a jack. That's just asking for trouble. With the car safely elevated, disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent any electrical mishaps. Now's also a good time to spray all those bolts and nuts you'll be removing with penetrating oil. Let it soak in while you tackle the next steps.

Finally, clear the area around the transmission. Remove any components that might be in the way, such as the air intake or any underbody panels. Disconnect any wiring harnesses or hoses attached to the transmission. Make sure to label everything clearly to avoid confusion later on. With the area prepped and ready, you're one step closer to getting that transmission out.

Step-by-Step Transmission Removal

Alright, with the prep work done, let's get our hands dirty. Follow these steps carefully and take your time. Patience is your friend here. First, disconnect the shift linkage. This is usually held in place by a clip or a bolt. Disconnect it carefully and set it aside. Next, disconnect the speedometer cable or sensor, depending on whether your tC has a mechanical or electronic speedometer.

Then, it's time to deal with the driveshafts (also known as half-shafts). For this, you'll need to detach them from the transmission. This usually involves removing a few bolts or clips. Be careful when removing the driveshafts, as they can sometimes be a bit stubborn. Once they're free from the transmission, gently pry them out of the hub assembly. You might need a special tool for this, but often a pry bar will do the trick. Be careful not to damage the seals on the transmission.

Now, support the engine. Since the transmission is a structural component, you'll need to support the engine from above. An engine support bar is ideal for this, but you can also use a jack with a wooden block under the oil pan. Just make sure the engine is securely supported before proceeding.

Next up is the transmission mount. Locate the mount and remove the bolts that secure it to the transmission and the car's frame. With the mount removed, it's time to position the transmission jack under the transmission. Make sure the transmission is securely resting on the jack before proceeding.

Finally, remove the remaining bolts that hold the transmission to the engine. These can be tough to reach, so take your time and use extensions and universal joints as needed. Once all the bolts are removed, slowly lower the transmission using the transmission jack. As you lower it, make sure nothing is binding or getting caught. Once the transmission is clear of the engine, carefully maneuver it out from under the car.

Congratulations, you've just removed a transmission! Now, take a break, clean up your workspace, and get ready for the next phase.

Inspecting and Preparing for Installation

With the transmission out, now is the perfect time to inspect everything. Take a good look at the engine's rear main seal. If it's leaking, now is the time to replace it. Also, inspect the flexplate or flywheel for any signs of damage or wear. If anything looks suspicious, replace it.

Next, clean the mating surfaces on both the engine and the transmission. Use a scraper or a wire brush to remove any old gasket material or debris. Make sure the surfaces are clean and smooth for a good seal. Now, take a look at the new (or rebuilt) transmission. Make sure it's the correct one for your car and that it's in good condition. Check the input shaft and the bellhousing for any damage.

Before installing the transmission, it's a good idea to replace the throwout bearing and the pilot bearing (if applicable). These are wear items that can cause problems down the road. Also, lubricate the input shaft splines with a small amount of grease. This will help the transmission slide smoothly into the engine.

Finally, double-check that you have all the necessary parts and tools before you start the installation. Nothing is more frustrating than getting halfway through a job and realizing you're missing something.

Installing the Transmission

Okay, let's get that transmission back where it belongs. Installation is essentially the reverse of removal, but there are a few key points to keep in mind. First, position the transmission on the transmission jack and carefully maneuver it into place under the car. Raise the transmission until it's aligned with the engine. This might take some patience and a bit of wiggling.

Once the transmission is aligned, slowly push it into the engine. Make sure the input shaft slides smoothly into the pilot bearing (or the flexplate). If it doesn't go in easily, don't force it. Rotate the engine slightly to align the splines.

With the transmission fully seated against the engine, install the bolts that hold it in place. Tighten them in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure. Refer to your service manual for the correct torque specifications.

Next, install the transmission mount and tighten the bolts to the correct torque. Remove the engine support and lower the engine slightly. Then, reconnect the driveshafts. This can be a bit tricky, but with some patience, you'll get them in place. Make sure they're fully seated and that the clips or bolts are securely fastened.

Reconnect the shift linkage and the speedometer cable or sensor. Double-check that everything is properly connected and that nothing is binding. Finally, reinstall any components that you removed during the preparation phase, such as the air intake or underbody panels.

Final Checks and Adjustments

Before you call it a day, there are a few crucial final checks to perform. First, double-check all the bolts and connections to make sure everything is tight and secure. Next, refill the transmission with the correct type and amount of fluid. Refer to your service manual for the proper specifications.

Then, reconnect the negative battery cable and start the engine. Let it idle for a few minutes and check for any leaks. Shift through all the gears to make sure the transmission is working properly. If everything seems okay, take the car for a test drive. Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations.

If you notice any problems, don't panic. Carefully diagnose the issue and make any necessary adjustments. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Once you're satisfied that everything is working correctly, congratulate yourself on a job well done. You've successfully removed and installed a transmission on your 2012 Scion tC!

Tips and Tricks

• Take Pictures: Before disconnecting anything, snap a photo. It's a lifesaver when you're trying to remember where everything goes.
• Label Everything: Use masking tape and a marker to label all the wires and hoses you disconnect. This will prevent confusion during reassembly.
• Penetrating Oil is Your Friend: Spray all those stubborn bolts with penetrating oil and let it soak in for a while before attempting to remove them.
• Use a Transmission Jack: Don't even think about trying to remove or install a transmission without a transmission jack. It's essential for safety and ease of use.
• Torque Wrench is a Must: Use a torque wrench to tighten all the bolts to the correct specifications. This will prevent over-tightening or under-tightening, which can lead to problems down the road.
• Don't Rush: Take your time and be patient. Rushing can lead to mistakes and injuries.

Removing and installing a transmission is a challenging but rewarding task. With the right tools, a bit of know-how, and a lot of patience, you can do it yourself and save a lot of money. Just remember to be safe and take your time. Good luck, and happy wrenching!