2013–2020 Scion FR-S / Toyota 86 Ownership Guide

Learn the strengths, weaknesses, maintenance priorities, and best modifications for the Scion FR-S and Toyota 86 platform.

Garage Guide™ Rating

🟢 Recommended

The Scion FR-S and Toyota 86 deliver one of the purest driving experiences available in the modern automotive market. With balanced handling, excellent aftermarket support, affordable ownership costs, and a strong enthusiast community, the platform earns a strong recommendation from Garage Guide™.

What Makes the FR-S / 86 Special?

Unlike many modern performance vehicles that prioritize horsepower, the FR-S and 86 focus on driver engagement. Lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, and excellent chassis balance make these cars rewarding on both the street and track.

Key Highlights

✅ Lightweight rear-wheel-drive platform

✅ Excellent handling and balance

✅ Strong aftermarket support

✅ Affordable ownership costs

✅ Large enthusiast community

Common Ownership Considerations

Limited Factory Power

Some owners desire additional horsepower, particularly at higher RPM ranges.

Tire Selection

The platform responds dramatically to tire upgrades and proper wheel fitment.

Valve Spring Recall (Certain Model Years)

Prospective buyers should verify recall completion when purchasing used vehicles.

Previous Modifications

Many examples have been modified. Review maintenance records and modification quality carefully.

Garage Guide™ Recommended Modifications

🟢 Performance Tires

One of the best upgrades available for improving handling and driver confidence.

🟢 Cat-Back Exhaust

Improves sound while maintaining daily drivability.

🟢 Short Throw Shifter

Enhances driving engagement and shift feel.

🟢 Suspension Upgrades

The platform responds exceptionally well to quality suspension modifications.

🟡 Forced Induction

Supercharger and turbocharger kits can provide substantial power gains but require additional planning and supporting modifications.

🔴 Cheap Performance Chips

Not recommended due to questionable performance gains and potential reliability concerns.

Maintenance Priorities

Priority 1

Regular oil changes using quality synthetic oil.

Priority 2

Monitor tire wear and maintain proper alignment.

Priority 3

Inspect brakes regularly, especially on vehicles used for spirited driving or track events.

Priority 4

Verify recall completion and maintain service records.

Recommended Ownership Path

Daily Driver

• Quality tires
• Cat-back exhaust
• Routine maintenance

Street Performance

• Suspension upgrades
• Wheel and tire package
• Short throw shifter

Track-Focused Build

• Brake upgrades
• Coilovers
• Cooling upgrades
• Dedicated performance tires

Garage Guide™ Verdict

The Scion FR-S and Toyota 86 remain some of the most rewarding driver’s cars available. Their lightweight design, balanced handling, and affordable ownership costs make them excellent platforms for both new and experienced enthusiasts.

For drivers seeking maximum driving enjoyment rather than maximum horsepower, the FR-S and 86 are easy recommendations.

🟢 Recommended

🛒 Buying Checklist

Before purchasing a 2013–2020 Scion FR-S / Toyota 86, verify the following:

Vehicle History

✅ Clean title

✅ Consistent maintenance records

✅ No major accident history

✅ Recall work completed (if applicable)

Mechanical Inspection

✅ Smooth engine operation

✅ No unusual engine noises

✅ Proper clutch operation

✅ No drivetrain vibrations

Modification Review

✅ Quality aftermarket parts

✅ Professional installation

✅ No signs of track abuse

✅ Suspension components in good condition

🏆 Best Model Years

Top Picks

🥇 2017 Toyota 86

• Updated suspension tuning
• Improved driving dynamics
• Refined ownership experience

🥈 2019 Toyota 86

• Excellent reliability
• Strong aftermarket support

🥉 2020 Toyota 86

• Final model year before redesign
• Mature platform

⚠️ Proceed Carefully

Track-Driven Vehicles

Many FR-S and 86 models have seen track use.

Inspect:

• Brake condition
• Suspension wear
• Tire condition
• Service records

Aggressive Modifications

Verify:

• Professional installation
• Supporting modifications
• Proper tuning

Recall History

Verify valve spring recall completion where applicable.

Neglected Maintenance

High-RPM driving demands consistent maintenance.

📈 Mileage Expectations

Under 50,000 Miles

🟢 Excellent

Generally considered low mileage.

50,000–100,000 Miles

🟢 Normal

Many examples remain highly reliable.

100,000–150,000 Miles

🟢 Common

Properly maintained vehicles routinely exceed this range.

150,000–200,000+ Miles

🟢 Achievable

Long-term ownership success depends on maintenance history.

💰 Ownership Budget

Annual Maintenance Estimate

Oil Changes:$100–$250

Tires:$600–$1,200

Brakes:$300–$900

Miscellaneous Maintenance:$300–$800

Estimated Annual Ownership Cost

💰 $500–$2,500+

Depending on mileage, driving style, and modifications.

🔧 Garage Guide Reliability Snapshot

🟢 Reliability: Good

🟢 Maintenance Cost: Good

🟡 Performance: Average

🟢 Modification Potential: Excellent

🟢 Daily Driver Suitability: Good

🟢 Long-Term Ownership: Good

🏁 Garage Guide Ownership Score

Overall Ownership Rating

🟢 8.9 / 10

Why?

The FR-S and Toyota 86 offer:

✅ Outstanding handling

✅ Lightweight rear-wheel-drive platform

✅ Affordable ownership costs

✅ Strong aftermarket support

✅ Excellent enthusiast community

While factory horsepower is modest compared to some competitors, the driving experience remains one of the most rewarding in the automotive world.

For drivers who value balance, handling, and driver engagement over outright horsepower, the FR-S and Toyota 86 remain easy recommendations.

🏁 Build Smarter. Drive Longer.™