Affordable rear-wheel-drive sports car praised by enthusiasts for pure driving fun. Built jointly with Subaru (identical to BRZ/Scion FR-S). The FA20 boxer engine is generally reliable when properly maintained, but high oil consumption is normal and timing chain tensioner can fail. Main concerns: bottom end knock from oil starvation (especially track use), valve spring recall on 2012-2013 models, power steering wiring harness recall, and subframe corrosion on early cars. Toyota reliability rating 4.0/5.0, but this specific model wasn't included in What Car's survey.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
€XXX - €XXX/year
15,000 km/year
Fixed costs
€XXX-XXX
Risk buffer
€XXX-XXX
What Can Break
bars = likelihood
Connecting rod/crankshaft bearing failure (bottom end knock)€3,500 - €5,000
Oil starvation during hard cornering causes spun bearings, most common on track-driven or poorly maintained cars · more· less
The dreaded bottom end knock is caused by spun connecting rod bearings or crankshaft bearings due to oil starvation or excessive oil temperatures. This typically occurs from blocked oil passages, lack of lubrication during hard cornering (especially on track with slick tires), or poor maintenance. Some cases reported blocked oil passages following the valve spring recall due to excess RTV sealant. Most failures occur on cars with dubious service history or those tracked without proper oil cooling/baffling. Forum reports show 9 out of 10 rebuilt engines have spun con rod bearings. Prevention: regular oil changes, baffled sump for track use, oil cooler, and check oil level every 1,000 miles. Rebuild costs approximately €3,500-4,000 at specialists like ARG Performance, including ACL race bearings, new crankshaft, baffle plate, upgraded oil pickup, and complete gasket kit.
High oil consumption€30 - €100/year
Normal characteristic of FA20 boxer engine, expect to top up every 1,000-2,000 miles · more· less
High oil consumption is a common trait of the FA20 engine. Survey data shows approximately 15% of owners reported excessive consumption within first 50,000 miles. Consumption varies greatly by driving style - harder driving with thinner oil increases consumption. Some owners use no oil between services, while others add 250ml-1L. Early models (2012-2014) typically consume more. Must use recommended synthetic oil (0W-20 or 5W-30). Check oil level every 2 weeks or 1,000 miles. Keep spare litre on hand. This is not a defect but an inherent characteristic of horizontally-opposed boxer engines. Switching to 5W-30 can reduce consumption. Cost assumes topping up 2-4 litres per year of quality synthetic oil.
The timing chain tensioner has a release valve that weakens over time, allowing oil pressure to bleed off overnight. This results in distinctive rattle for 1-30 seconds on cold start, typically occurring between 60,000-100,000 km. Unlike earlier EA111 engines, the FA20 is improved but issues persist. If rattle lasts more than a few seconds, the chain, guides, tensioner, and sprockets all need replacing. VW has updated the tensioner part. Ignoring this can lead to chain skip and catastrophic valve/piston contact. Note: There is NO service interval for timing chain - it's considered lifetime, but can fail prematurely. No timing belt to replace. Cost includes chain, guides, tensioners, sprockets, and 5-8 hours labor. Good news: timing chain failures are relatively rare on the GT86 compared to other issues.
Oil leaks from camshaft blanking plate or cam chain cover, latter requires engine removal · more· less
Oil leaks are common on the FA20 engine, occurring primarily from the camshaft blanking plate or the large cam chain cover plate on the front of the engine. If it's the camshaft blanking plate, a new valve cover gasket will fix it (€220-280). However, if it's the cam chain cover, it's a much bigger, engine-out job (€1,000-1,400+). Symptoms include oil under the car, oil on other engine components, or burning oil smell while driving. Can cause spark plug wells to fill with oil (causing misfires) and coolant hoses to deteriorate. Don't ignore - replace as soon as leak is detected. Horizontal boxer engine layout makes these leaks more likely than inline engines.
Subframe corrosion/rust€200 - €600
Front and rear subframes prone to corrosion, especially early cars and coastal regions · more· less
The front and rear subframes are the main culprits for corrosion on the GT86. Surface rust on suspension and chassis elements is common after 10 years, especially on cars that have spent time in coastal areas or cold climates with road salt. If corrosion is severe enough, it will need a new subframe to pass MOT - budget around €200-300 for a second-hand unit, more for new OEM. Some owners also found corrosion on the door pillar near the mirror, but this should be covered by rust warranty. Prevention: underbody rustproofing with Fluid Film or ACF-50 recommended, especially if keeping long-term. Subaru recommends underbody recoat every 6 years and mandates it for 12-year anti-perforation warranty. Toyota does not recommend underbody sealing. Check thoroughly during pre-purchase inspection - surface rust is treatable, but structural rust is expensive.
Plastic bearing melts under track use, causes grinding/rattling when clutch pressed · more· less
The 2012-2016 FR-S/GT86/BRZ came with a plastic throw-out bearing from the factory that is known to fail at track days and can ruin the whole clutch. The octagonal plastic center section melts and disintegrates under track use. Symptoms: grinding, rattling, or squealing when depressing clutch pedal (noise stops when released). Test by starting car in neutral and pressing clutch several times - if noise only occurs when pressed, it's likely the TOB. Downside: requires transmission removal to fix. When replacing, it's recommended to replace clutch kit, pressure plate, pilot bearing, and rear main crank seal while transmission is out. Aftermarket all-metal sealed bearings are available and far superior to OEM. Labor-intensive repair due to transmission removal. Preventable with upgraded bearing, especially important for track use.
Rear differential clunking/noise€150 - €400
Knocking or clunking noise from rear diff when making tight turns, especially in cold weather · more· less
Some GT86/BRZ models develop a knocking or clunking noise from the rear differential when making tight turns or over bumps, especially in cold weather (below 4°C/40°F). Described as deep, hollow thud or rumbling/metallic grinding. Caused by slack in diff and driveshaft, or tight handbrake adjustment causing LSD to bind. Solutions: 1) Change differential oil to high-quality fluid suitable for cold climates (Motul Gear 300) with friction modifier additive, 2) Rear diff oil should be changed every 20k miles or 4 years (dealers often miss this), 3) Check suspension components, arms, sway bar, bushings, 4) Torque upper shock mount nuts in trunk to 22 lb-ft, 5) Back off handbrake cable if too tight. Some noise is normal for LSD-equipped cars in winter. Cost assumes diff oil change and inspection/adjustment. Issue mostly cosmetic/annoying rather than dangerous.
Taillight condensation/moisture€50 - €250
Factory gaskets too thin, allowing moisture into taillights causing fogging and water pooling · more· less
Condensation buildup in the taillights is a very common complaint among GT86/BRZ owners. The factory gaskets on 2012-2020 models are too thin, poorly sealed, and not water-resistant enough. Over time, water and debris wear down the seal, allowing moisture into the taillights - causing fogging, condensation, and even pooling water. In some cases, the boss that houses the mounting stud may be cracked. Note: Light condensation that clears up is normal - water leak is the problem (large droplets and pooled water). Solutions: 1) Aftermarket oversized gaskets (Gasket Ninja, Helix) made from high-density closed-cell neoprene foam, 1.59mm thicker than OEM, with automotive weatherstrip adhesive (€50-80), 2) Warranty replacement with new tail light units (some have different part numbers), 3) Ensure proper torque (4.5 Nm / 39 in-lb) during installation. Very common issue but relatively inexpensive to fix with upgraded gaskets.
HPFP makes cricket/chirping noise when hot, worse with high-ethanol fuel · more· less
Many GT86/BRZ owners notice a "cricket" chirping noise from the high-pressure fuel pump, particularly when the engine is hot and when using fuel with higher ethanol content. Can develop around 2,500 miles. Sounds like crickets chirping when idling, goes away when revved. May start intermittently and quietly but can become permanent once up to temperature. Causes: HPFP design characteristic, worse with high ethanol or stale fuel. TSB published 10/10/2016 by Scion states normal sound is "ticking," but if high-pitch chirp is noticeable, replacement is covered under warranty. Solutions: 1) HPFP was superseded by new version in 2016 - still not 100% success rate but better than old design, 2) Switch to fuel with lower ethanol content (Esso 97 vs V-Power), 3) Warranty replacement if still covered. Some owners report no noise for 10+ months after replacement. More annoying than dangerous. Some noise is considered normal operation.
Ignition coil failure (early models)€150 - €400
UK owners report coil pack failures on earlier models, causing rough idle and misfires · more· less
UK owners have reported issues with ignition coil packs failing, particularly on earlier models (2012-2014). Symptoms include rough idling, misfires, check engine light, poor performance, and unburned fuel. Ignition coils on Toyota models usually last between 100,000-120,000 miles but can fail earlier. Average UK replacement cost is around €150, ranging from €70-220 depending on location and mechanic. City mechanics (London) charge €50-100/hour while towns charge €35-50/hour. Bad coils cause misfires and can damage catalytic converters if ignored. Many mechanics recommend changing all coils if nearing 100,000 miles, especially if multiple showing weakness. Replace spark plugs at same time as worn plugs can strain new coils. Boxer engine layout may have slightly different labor costs due to coil accessibility. Not a widespread issue but worth checking on high-mileage early models.
Water pump failure€350 - €750
Water pump can develop leaks or bearing noise, typically around 100,000+ km · more· less
Water pump failures are relatively uncommon on the GT86 but do occur. Symptoms include leaks, noises (bearing failure), coolant warning light, engine overheating, or poor cabin heating. Leaking water pumps can damage drive and timing components and cause engine overheating. Can be caused by other cooling system problems (bad thermostat, radiator, head gasket). Cost: €350-750 including parts and labor. The FA20 uses a standard belt-driven water pump (not electric like some engines). When replacing water pump, entire cooling system should be inspected including hoses, radiator, coolant fan. Recommended to replace thermostat at same time (adds €15-80 for part, €200-500 total if done separately). Typically lasts 100,000+ km with proper maintenance. Always replace thermostat if engine overheats, even if not initial cause. Failure causes rapid overheating and potential head gasket damage if not addressed immediately.
Reliable sports car with known weak points
The GT86 is generally reliable if properly maintained, with Toyota finishing 5th out of 31 brands in reliability surveys. However, the FA20 boxer engine requires attention to oil level and regular maintenance. Most failures occur on poorly maintained examples or those tracked without proper modifications (baffled sump, oil cooler). Survey data shows approximately 15% of owners reported excessive oil consumption, 10% noted engine knocking sounds, and 5% flagged overheating. Many owners report trouble-free ownership exceeding 100,000 miles with proper care.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history Complete service records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals (every year/10,000 km or more frequently). Look for evidence of regular maintenance.
Tires Check tread depth, age (date codes), and uneven wear patterns. Aggressive alignment can cause premature inner edge wear. OEM size 215/45R17 or 215/40R18.
Cold start Must start engine completely cold. Listen for timing chain rattle in first 30 seconds - short rattle normal, long rattle (30+ seconds) indicates chain/tensioner failure.
Test drive Minimum 20-30 minutes including varied speeds and corners. Check for smooth power delivery, no knocking sounds, proper clutch operation (manual), no unusual noises from drivetrain.
Oil level check Check dipstick - oil consumption is normal, but level should not be critically low. Ask owner about consumption between services.
Specific for this vehicle
Listen for bottom end knock/engine rattle With engine warm, listen for knocking from bottom of engine (rod/crank bearings). Sounds like tractor or metallic knocking. If present, walk away - repair costs €3,500-5,000.
Check for oil leaks (camshaft covers, chain cover) Inspect engine for oil leaks, especially around cam covers and front chain cover. Look for oil residue, smell burning oil. Check if spark plug wells have oil (indicates valve cover gasket leak).
Inspect subframe and underbody for corrosion Check front and rear subframes thoroughly for rust, especially on early cars (2012-2014) and coastal area cars. Surface rust acceptable, severe corrosion expensive to fix.
Check taillights for condensation/moisture Look inside taillights for water droplets or pooling (not light mist which is normal). Very common issue. Fixable but indicates poor sealing.
Listen for fuel pump cricket noise when warm After 15+ minute drive, listen at idle for cricket/chirping noise from fuel pump. Common issue, replacement available but not critical.
Test clutch operation (manual) - check for throw-out bearing noise With engine running in neutral, press and release clutch several times. Listen for grinding/rattling when clutch pressed (throw-out bearing failure). Expensive to fix as requires transmission removal.
Check for rear differential clunking During test drive, make tight turns and listen for clunking from rear. More noticeable in cold weather. Check when last differential oil was changed (should be every 20k miles/4 years).
Verify valve spring recall completed (2012-2013 models) If car built April 9, 2012 - May 24, 2013, verify valve spring recall work completed. Contact Toyota with VIN. Critical safety recall.
Verify power steering recall completed (2012-2015 RHD models) If car built April 4, 2012 - March 18, 2015 (right-hand drive with knee airbag), verify power steering wiring harness recall completed. Contact Toyota with VIN.
Check service history for timing chain work If any timing chain work was done (especially valve spring recall), ensure it was done properly. Some reports of RTV sealant blocking oil passages after recall work.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Valve spring failure (April 9, 2012 - May 24, 2013)Critical - verify completed
Power steering wiring harness (April 4, 2012 - March 18, 2015, RHD with knee airbag)Critical - verify completed
Takata airbag inflator (May 2008 - Aug 2014)Verify completed
Airbag sensor signal (Feb 2014 - Sep 2014)Verify completed
Contact Toyota dealer with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The valve spring recall (2012-2013) is critical - can cause engine failure. Power steering recall affects RHD models only. TSBs document known issues but are not mandatory repairs unless covered by warranty.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years unlimited km)Expired on all GT86s
Extended warrantyAvailable through dealers
Rust perforation warranty12 years (if maintained)
All 2012-2021 GT86s are outside their original factory warranty. Extended warranty may be available through Toyota dealers or third-party providers. The 12-year rust perforation warranty requires documented underbody inspections/recoating every 6 years (Subaru requirement; Toyota does not mandate this). For cars over 5 years old, Toyota UK offers 20% discount on service prices (£200 intermediate, £316 full service instead of £250/£395).
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.