Hey guys! Let's dive into some of the common issues and problems you might encounter with the 2016 Toyota 86 (formerly known as the Scion FR-S). If you're thinking about buying one, already own one, or just curious, this guide will give you the lowdown on what to watch out for. We're going to cover everything from engine quirks to those little annoying interior bits. Buckle up!

Engine and Mechanical Issues

When it comes to the Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S, the engine is often the first place owners start to notice potential problems. Let's break down what you need to know.

Oil Starvation

One of the most talked-about issues with the FA20 engine (found in both the Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S) is oil starvation, especially during aggressive driving. This happens because the oil pickup can sometimes struggle to get enough oil when the car is cornering hard, leading to potential engine damage.

Why it happens:

The FA20 is a horizontally opposed engine (also known as a boxer engine), which is great for a low center of gravity and balanced handling. However, the design can make it more susceptible to oil sloshing away from the pickup during high-G maneuvers.

What to look for:

Listen for knocking or ticking noises, especially after hard cornering. These noises can indicate that parts of the engine aren't getting enough lubrication. Also, keep a close eye on your oil pressure if you have a gauge. A sudden drop in pressure during a turn is a major red flag.

How to mitigate it:

1. Oil Cooler: Installing an oil cooler helps to maintain a more consistent oil temperature, which can improve lubrication.
2. Baffled Oil Pan: A baffled oil pan helps to keep oil near the pickup even during aggressive driving.
3. Running Higher Oil Level: Keeping the oil level slightly above the “full” mark can provide an extra margin of safety (but don’t overfill!).
4. Use High-Quality Oil: Using a high-quality synthetic oil can provide better protection under extreme conditions.

Valve Spring Recall

There was a recall issued for certain Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S models due to faulty valve springs. These springs could potentially fracture, leading to engine failure.

What to look for:

If your car is affected by this recall, you might notice engine misfires, rough idling, or even a check engine light. The affected models were primarily from the 2013 model year, but it's worth checking if your 2016 model was part of the recall too.

How to address it:

Check with your local Toyota or Scion dealership to see if your VIN is included in the recall. If it is, they will replace the valve springs free of charge. Don't delay this repair, as it can prevent serious engine damage.

Fueling Issues

Some owners have reported issues related to fuel delivery, such as fuel pump failures or issues with the direct injection system. These can cause a range of problems, from poor performance to a no-start condition.

What to look for:

Pay attention to any hesitation or stuttering during acceleration, especially at higher RPMs. Difficulty starting the car or a sudden loss of power can also be signs of fuel delivery problems.

How to address it:

1. Fuel Pump Replacement: If your fuel pump is failing, it will need to be replaced. Consider upgrading to a higher-flow pump if you're planning on adding performance modifications.
2. Direct Injection System Cleaning: The direct injection system can sometimes develop carbon buildup, which can affect fuel delivery. Regular cleaning can help prevent this.

Transmission Concerns

While the manual and automatic transmissions in the Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S are generally reliable, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Manual Transmission:

Some owners have reported issues with the synchros, particularly in the earlier models. This can result in difficulty shifting into certain gears, especially when the transmission is cold. If you're experiencing grinding or difficulty shifting, it might be a sign of synchro wear.

Automatic Transmission:

The automatic transmission is generally robust, but it's still important to perform regular fluid changes to keep it in good condition. Neglecting the fluid changes can lead to slipping or harsh shifting.

Interior and Electronic Issues

Moving inside the car, let's look at some of the common interior and electronic issues that Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S owners have reported.

Infotainment System

The infotainment system in the 2016 models is pretty basic, but it can still have its quirks. Common complaints include Bluetooth connectivity issues, slow response times, and occasional glitches.

What to look for:

If you're having trouble pairing your phone, experiencing frequent disconnects, or notice that the screen is slow to respond, it might be a sign of an issue with the infotainment system. Software updates can sometimes resolve these problems, so check if there are any available for your system.

Interior Trim and Build Quality

While the Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S are fun to drive, the interior isn't exactly known for its luxury. Some owners have complained about the quality of the interior trim, including flimsy plastics and panels that don't quite line up perfectly.

What to look for:

Check for rattles, squeaks, and loose panels, especially in the dashboard and door panels. These can be annoying, but they're usually cosmetic issues that don't affect the car's performance.

Air Conditioning

Some owners have reported issues with the air conditioning system, such as weak cooling or intermittent operation. This can be a real bummer, especially in hot weather.

What to look for:

If your AC isn't blowing as cold as it should, or if it's cutting in and out, it might be a sign of a refrigerant leak, a faulty compressor, or a problem with the AC control module. Have the system checked by a qualified technician to diagnose the issue.

Exterior and Body Issues

Let's step back outside and take a look at some of the common exterior and body-related issues.

Paint Quality

The paint quality on the Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S has been a topic of discussion among owners. Some have noted that the paint is relatively thin and prone to chipping, especially on the front bumper and hood.

What to look for:

Inspect the paint for chips, scratches, and swirl marks. Consider applying a paint protection film (PPF) to vulnerable areas to help protect the paint from damage.

Weather Stripping

Some owners have reported issues with the weather stripping around the doors and windows, such as cracking or coming loose. This can lead to wind noise and water leaks.

What to look for:

Check the weather stripping for any signs of damage or wear. If it's cracked or loose, it should be replaced to prevent wind noise and water leaks.

Other Common Issues

Here are a few other common issues that Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S owners have reported:

• Brake Wear: The brake pads and rotors can wear out relatively quickly, especially if you're driving aggressively. Be sure to inspect your brakes regularly and replace them as needed.
• Tire Wear: The rear tires tend to wear out faster than the front tires, especially if you're doing a lot of spirited driving. Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear.
• Differential Whine: Some owners have reported a whining noise from the rear differential, especially at highway speeds. This might be a sign of excessive wear or low fluid level. Changing the differential fluid can sometimes resolve the issue.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

To keep your Toyota 86 or Scion FR-S running smoothly and reliably, follow these preventative maintenance tips:

• Regular Oil Changes: Change your oil and filter every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or as recommended in your owner's manual. Use a high-quality synthetic oil for best protection.
• Check Fluid Levels: Regularly check and top off all fluid levels, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid.
• Inspect Belts and Hoses: Inspect your belts and hoses for cracks, wear, and leaks. Replace them as needed to prevent breakdowns.
• Brake Maintenance: Inspect your brakes regularly and replace the pads and rotors as needed. Bleed the brake fluid every two years to remove moisture and air.
• Tire Maintenance: Check your tire pressure regularly and rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Replace your tires when they reach the end of their useful life.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a rundown of the common issues and problems you might encounter with the 2016 Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S. While these cars have their quirks, they're also a blast to drive and relatively reliable if properly maintained. By knowing what to look for and following a regular maintenance schedule, you can keep your 86 or FR-S running strong for years to come. Happy driving, everyone!