Hey guys! Let's dive into the world of the 2016 Toyota 86 (formerly the Scion FR-S), a car that's all about fun, rear-wheel-drive thrills, and a connection to the road that's hard to beat. But, like any car, it has its quirks. We're going to break down some of the most common issues you might encounter with this model year and, more importantly, how to tackle them. Whether you're a seasoned owner or considering picking one up, this guide will give you the inside scoop.

1. Valve Spring Recall and Engine Reliability

Okay, so let's kick things off with something pretty major: the valve spring recall. This is a biggie because it affects the heart of the FR-S – its engine. Now, not every 2016 FR-S is affected, but it's super important to check if your car was part of the recall. Basically, some of these engines had valve springs that weren't quite up to snuff, and in the worst-case scenario, they could break, leading to some serious engine damage. We're talking potential for a total engine meltdown here, which is definitely not what you want.

So, what do you do? First things first, head over to the Toyota (or Scion, if you want to get nostalgic) website and punch in your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). This will tell you if your car was included in the recall. If it was, the next step is to get it to a Toyota dealer ASAP. The good news is that the recall work is done free of charge. They'll inspect the valve springs and replace them if necessary. This is one of those things you absolutely don't want to put off. Ignoring it could turn a relatively simple fix into a catastrophic engine failure, costing you thousands.

Beyond the recall, the FA20 engine in the FR-S is generally pretty solid, but it's not without its potential issues. One thing to keep an eye on is oil consumption. Some owners have reported that their engines tend to burn a bit more oil than expected, especially as they rack up the miles. Keep a close eye on your oil level and top it off as needed. Using a good quality synthetic oil can also help. Another thing to be aware of is the direct injection system. Direct injection is great for performance and efficiency, but it can also lead to carbon buildup on the intake valves over time. This can cause rough running, decreased performance, and even misfires. A carbon cleaning service every 30,000 to 50,000 miles can help prevent this.

In summary:

• Check for the valve spring recall immediately. It's free to fix and could save your engine.
• Monitor your oil level regularly. The FA20 can be a bit thirsty.
• Consider a carbon cleaning service to keep your engine running smoothly.

2. Fuel Pump Issues

Alright, let's move on to another potential headache: fuel pump problems. Some 2016 FR-S owners have reported issues with the fuel pump failing, which can leave you stranded. The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the gas tank to the engine, and if it's not working properly, your engine won't get the fuel it needs to run.

Symptoms of a failing fuel pump can include: difficulty starting the car, especially when it's hot outside; the engine sputtering or stalling, particularly under acceleration; a noticeable decrease in fuel economy; and a whining noise coming from the fuel tank. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to have your fuel pump checked out by a mechanic.

Now, fuel pump failures can be caused by a number of factors, including: a clogged fuel filter, which puts extra strain on the pump; running the car with a low fuel level, which can cause the pump to overheat; and simply normal wear and tear over time. To help prevent fuel pump problems, it's a good idea to replace your fuel filter regularly, usually every 30,000 miles or so. Also, try to avoid running your car with the fuel level consistently low. Keeping at least a quarter of a tank of gas in the tank can help keep the fuel pump cool and prevent it from overheating.

If your fuel pump does fail, the replacement cost can vary depending on whether you go to a dealer or an independent mechanic, and on the brand of the replacement pump. However, it's generally not a super expensive repair. It's definitely something you want to address promptly, though, because a failing fuel pump can leave you stranded and can potentially damage other components of your fuel system.

• Symptoms: Starting issues, sputtering, stalling, poor fuel economy, whining noise.
• Prevention: Replace fuel filter regularly, keep the fuel tank at least 1/4 full.
• Solution: Replace the fuel pump if it fails.

3. AC Issues

Living in a warmer climate and having AC issues is literally the worst. Let's talk about AC problems in the 2016 FR-S. Some owners have reported that their AC systems aren't as cold as they should be, or that they stop working altogether. This can be a real bummer, especially during the summer months.

There are several potential causes of AC problems in the FR-S. One common issue is a refrigerant leak. Over time, the refrigerant in the AC system can leak out, reducing its cooling capacity. Another possible cause is a faulty compressor. The compressor is responsible for circulating the refrigerant, and if it's not working properly, the AC won't be able to cool the air. Other potential issues include a clogged condenser, a faulty expansion valve, or a problem with the AC control module.

If your AC isn't working properly, the first thing to do is to have it checked by a qualified mechanic. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate repair. If the problem is a refrigerant leak, they can find the leak and repair it, and then recharge the system with refrigerant. If the problem is a faulty compressor or another component, they can replace it.

To help prevent AC problems, it's a good idea to have your AC system serviced regularly. This typically involves checking the refrigerant level, inspecting the components for leaks or damage, and cleaning the condenser. Regular maintenance can help keep your AC system running efficiently and prevent costly repairs down the road. Also, running your AC system for a few minutes each month, even during the winter, can help keep the seals lubricated and prevent them from drying out and leaking.

• Potential Causes: Refrigerant Leaks, Faulty Compressor.
• Prevention: Routine maintenance.
• Solution: Professional inspection and repair.

4. Suspension and Handling Quirks

The FR-S is known for its sharp handling, but some owners have noticed a few quirks in the suspension and handling department. One common complaint is that the rear suspension can feel a bit bouncy or unsettled, especially on rough roads. This can be due to a number of factors, including worn shocks or struts, or a lack of damping in the rear suspension.

Another potential issue is that the car can feel a bit twitchy or unstable at higher speeds, particularly in windy conditions. This can be due to the car's relatively short wheelbase and lightweight design, which make it more susceptible to crosswinds. Some owners have also reported that the car tends to understeer, meaning that it doesn't want to turn as sharply as you might expect.

If you're experiencing any of these handling issues, there are a few things you can do to improve the car's handling. One option is to upgrade the suspension components, such as the shocks, struts, and springs. Upgrading to a higher-quality suspension system can improve the car's ride quality, handling, and stability. Another option is to install a set of aftermarket sway bars. Sway bars help to reduce body roll and improve the car's cornering ability. You can also try adjusting the car's alignment to improve its handling. A proper alignment can help to reduce understeer and improve the car's stability at higher speeds.

Finally, it's important to remember that the FR-S is a sporty car that's designed to be driven hard. It's not a luxury car, so it's not going to ride as smoothly as a Lexus. However, with a few simple upgrades and adjustments, you can significantly improve the car's handling and make it even more fun to drive.

• Common Complaints: Bouncy rear suspension, twitchy handling at high speeds.
• Solutions: Suspension upgrades, sway bar installation, alignment adjustments.

5. Interior and Electronic Issues

No car is perfect, and the 2016 FR-S can have some interior and electronic gremlins too. Let's look at some common ones. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, such as the screen freezing or the system crashing. Others have had problems with the Bluetooth connectivity, or with the sound system cutting out. These issues can be frustrating, but fortunately, they're usually not too difficult to fix.

Another common complaint is that the interior materials can feel a bit cheap or flimsy. The FR-S is an affordable sports car, so it's not surprising that Toyota cut corners in some areas to keep the price down. However, some owners have found that the plastic trim pieces can be easily scratched or broken, and that the seats can wear out quickly.

If you're experiencing any interior or electronic issues, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that all of the connections are secure. Sometimes, a loose connection can cause electronic problems. You can also try resetting the system by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes. If that doesn't work, you may need to take the car to a dealer or mechanic for further diagnosis.

To help prevent interior and electronic issues, it's a good idea to keep the interior clean and well-maintained. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the interior surfaces, and protect the seats from wear and tear by using seat covers. Also, be careful when using the electronic systems, and avoid overloading them. For example, don't try to connect too many devices to the Bluetooth system at once.

• Common Complaints: Infotainment glitches, cheap interior materials.
• Solutions: Check connections, reset system, professional diagnosis.

Conclusion

The 2016 Toyota 86/Scion FR-S is an awesome sports car that offers a ton of fun for the money. Sure, it has a few potential issues, but most of them are relatively minor and can be easily addressed. By being aware of these common problems and taking steps to prevent them, you can keep your FR-S running smoothly for years to come. And remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping any car in top condition. Happy driving!