What year to avoid Scion FR-S?

There isn’t a single model year you must universally avoid. The Scion FR-S (and its Toyota 86 successor) spans 2012–2016, and most reliability concerns are tied to individual vehicle history rather than a definite year. For the best balance of value and peace of mind, focus on later years (2015–2016) when possible and always check recalls and maintenance records.

Year-by-year snapshot

Here is a concise look at the FR-S’ production window and what buyers commonly weigh when shopping used.

• 2012: First year of the FR-S; attractive price point often lures buyers, but as a first-year model it can carry typical early-production quirks that dealers may have corrected in later units.


• 2013–2014: These years drew attention for reports of higher engine oil consumption in some engines; if considering one of these years, review service history and consider a mechanical inspection focused on the engine and oil-management system.


• 2015–2016: Later-model examples are generally favored for their longer service history and potential refinements; still, verify that all recalls are completed and that the car has been well maintained.

In practice, model-year differences exist, but a well-documented maintenance history and a clean recall record often matter more than the calendar year alone.

What to check when buying a used FR-S

Before you commit to a test drive, examine these factors to gauge reliability and ownership costs.

• Engine health and oil usage: check for oil consumption signs, review service records, and listen for any unusual engine noise during startup and idle.


• Clutch and transmission wear (for manual transmissions): ensure smooth engagement, no grinding, and no slipping during acceleration in different gears.


• Suspension and steering wear: inspect for unusual tire wear, clunking noises, or loose steering feel that could indicate worn bushings or joints.


• Recall and service campaigns: verify that all open recalls have been completed; airbags and other safety-related campaigns should be current.


• Overall maintenance history and warranty status: look for regular maintenance, documented fluids, and any remaining powertrain or bumper-to-bumper coverage.

These checks help you avoid purchasing a car with costly or hidden problems and improve your odds of a solid long-term purchase.

How to verify recalls and service campaigns

To confirm safety campaigns and open recalls, use official sources and direct dealer support. Start with the VIN-based recall lookup and follow up with a dealership appointment to complete any required service.

• Visit the NHTSA recall database and enter the vehicle VIN to see active or past campaigns.


• Check Toyota’s (or Scion’s) official recall site for model-specific campaigns tied to the FR-S/Toyota 86 family.


• Schedule a dealer service appointment to perform any outstanding recalls and associated software or hardware updates.

Keeping recalls up to date is a straightforward way to ensure long-term safety and reliability.

Choosing the best years today

Best used picks

Many buyers consider 2015–2016 FR-S models as the sweet spot for a used purchase due to longer service histories and the likelihood of reduced mileage. That said, a well-cared-for 2012 example with complete maintenance and a clean recall record can still be a good value. The key is thorough inspection and verification of recall status.

Summary

There is no universally "bad" year for the Scion FR-S; the safest approach is to evaluate the car's history, maintenance, and recall status rather than rely on a single year. If possible, target 2015–2016 models for a balance of history and value, and always confirm that all safety campaigns have been completed. As the FR-S evolved into the Toyota 86, the used-market knowledge from 2012–2016 remains a useful guide for buyers seeking a reliable, engaging sports coupe.

What to look out for when buying a used FR-S?

What To Watch Out for When Buying a Used Scion FR-S

• Bad Clutch Release Bearing. While Scion offered the FR-S with a six-speed automatic transmission, performance wasn't as strong.
• Cracked Oil Drain Plug. It's always a good idea to have your oil changed by an experienced mechanic.
• Bad Valve Springs.
• Heavily Modified Models.

Is a Scion FR-S reliable car?

The Scion FR-S is a generally reliable car, especially with routine maintenance and when it's not heavily modified. However, it's important to be aware of some common issues, such as a prone-to-failure clutch release bearing in manual models and potential axle and differential problems if the car is excessively lowered. The 2013 model had a specific recall for valve springs, which could lead to issues if not properly addressed, so it's advisable to check its service history. 
This video explains the reliability of Scion FR-S from a user's perspective: 1mChris BorgesYouTube · Jan 13, 2018
Common reliability points

• Generally reliable: When well-maintained, the FR-S is considered a reliable and dependable car, especially since it's a Toyota product. Many owners report years of trouble-free use. 
• Clutch release bearing: The manual transmission's clutch release bearing can be a weak point and may fail prematurely, especially in cold weather. This can lead to grinding sounds and, if not fixed, can damage other transmission components. 
• Axles and differential: Owners who excessively lower their cars (e.g., "slamming it") have reported frequent axle and differential component failures due to the factory axles not being strong enough for the angle change. 
• 2013 model recall: The 2013 model had a significant recall for a valve spring issue in the engine. It's crucial to ensure this recall was performed correctly, as improper reassembly could lead to misfires or oil starvation. 
• Oil leaks: Some owners have reported minor oil leaks, which are often easily fixed. 
• Fuel sensor: One owner mentioned a check engine light at around 78,00078 comma 00078,000 miles that was caused by a failing fuel sensor. 

What to check when buying a used FR-S

• Verify recall service: For 2013 models, confirm the valve spring recall was completed correctly. 
• Inspect the clutch: Listen for any grinding when test-driving a manual model and have a mechanic check the clutch release bearing. 
• Ask about modifications: Find out if the car has been significantly lowered. If so, be aware that the axles and other drivetrain components may have been stressed. 
• Check the maintenance history: As with any used car, a good maintenance history is a positive indicator of long-term reliability. 

How reliable is a 2016 Scion FRS?

The 2016 Scion FR-S is generally considered a reliable car, especially for those who stick to its intended use and perform regular maintenance. However, it has known weaknesses, particularly if modified significantly by lowering the vehicle, which can lead to issues like broken axles, leaks, and coil pack failures. There was also a past recall for valve springs that owners should ensure has been addressed by checking service records.
 
This video discusses the reliability of the Scion FR-S, particularly when modified: 59sChris BorgesYouTube · Jan 13, 2018
Strengths

• Overall reliability: The car receives high praise for its reliability, with many owners recommending it and reporting few mechanical issues, especially with proper care. 
• Performance: Owners often cite its performance and handling as strong points. 
• J.D. Power score: It has a strong reliability rating from J.D. Power, with a score of 83 out of 100. 
• Safety: It received five out of five stars for overall crash protection in government tests. 

Weaknesses and potential issues 
This video provides a 100,000-mile review of the Scion FR-S, highlighting common issues like broken axles: 39sChris BorgesYouTube · Apr 11, 2020

• Lowering the car: Aggressive lowering can lead to frequent axle and differential problems. 
• Oil leaks: Some models experience oil leaks, particularly from the valve covers or the triangular plate on the engine. 
• Coil pack failure: The left-side coil packs can fail due to their proximity to the exhaust. 
• Front bumper sag: The front bumper's clips may not be strong enough to prevent sagging, though Subaru addressed this with metal brackets in later models. 
• Valve springs: A recall was issued for some models with defective valve springs, which could lead to engine failure. It is crucial to check the service history to ensure this has been repaired. 

Which year FR-S to avoid?

2013-2015 Scion FR-S - Common Problems
It was to avoid damaging the transmission. Some FR-S cars were delivered to dealerships without ever having had their systems reconnected. In early 2016, Toyota issued a recall on all FR-S cars. Toyota had its dealerships correct each affected car's system free of charge.