What years to avoid for a Toyota 86?
The Toyota 86, a popular sports car co-developed with Subaru, has earned a reputation for its sleek design, affordability, and driving dynamics. However, like any vehicle, certain model years have faced recurring issues that potential buyers should be aware of. In this article, we’ll explore which years of the Toyota 86 you might want to avoid and why.
Why Some Toyota 86 Model Years Are Problematic
While the Toyota 86 is generally a reliable car, some model years have been associated with specific issues that could lead to costly repairs or diminished driving satisfaction. These problems often stem from manufacturing defects, design flaws, or early production issues that were later resolved in subsequent models.
Model Years to Approach with Caution
Based on user reports and expert reviews, the following Toyota 86 model years have been flagged for recurring issues:
- 2013: The first model year of the Toyota 86 (and its twin, the Subaru BRZ) faced several teething problems. Common complaints include engine issues such as valve spring failures, which could lead to engine stalling or even catastrophic engine damage. Additionally, some owners reported problems with the fuel pump and rough idling.
- 2014: While some issues from the 2013 model were addressed, the 2014 Toyota 86 still experienced engine-related problems, including oil leaks and excessive oil consumption. There were also reports of premature wear on the clutch and transmission components.
- 2017: This year marked a mid-cycle refresh for the Toyota 86, but some owners reported issues with the updated engine tuning, leading to rough acceleration and occasional misfires. Additionally, there were complaints about the infotainment system being glitchy and unresponsive.
While these years are not inherently bad, they are worth approaching with caution. If you’re considering purchasing one of these models, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.
Tips for Buying a Used Toyota 86
If you’re in the market for a used Toyota 86, here are some tips to ensure you make a smart purchase:
- Check the Vehicle History Report: Look for any signs of previous accidents, major repairs, or recalls that haven’t been addressed.
- Inspect the Service Records: Ensure the car has been well-maintained, with regular oil changes and other routine services performed on time.
- Test Drive the Car: Pay attention to how the engine runs, how the transmission shifts, and whether there are any unusual noises or vibrations.
- Have a Mechanic Inspect the Car: A professional inspection can uncover hidden issues that might not be immediately apparent.
By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of purchasing a problematic Toyota 86 and enjoy the thrilling driving experience this car is known for.
Conclusion
The Toyota 86 is a fantastic sports car for enthusiasts, but like any vehicle, it has its quirks. If you’re considering a used model, be cautious with the 2013, 2014, and 2017 model years due to their reported issues. With proper research and a thorough inspection, you can find a Toyota 86 that will provide years of driving enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Toyota 86 engine last?
How long do Toyota 86s last? Although there is limited information about the vehicles, most drivers predict them to survive around 150,000 miles. This number is decent for a sports car but won't come close to the longevity of SUVs and vehicles built for more wear and tear on the highway and city.
What are the cons of the Toyota 86?
There are drawbacks, though, including a fair bit of road and tire noise as well as a rear seat basically unfit for humans. But few alternatives deliver as many grins for the buck.
Is the Toyota 86 a good car to buy?
It's tough to assign value to an emotional machine like a sports car. But if simple rear-wheel-drive excitement is what you're after, the 86 is right in the mix. It offers more protection and insulation than a convertible such as the Miata but is smaller and more fun than an entry-level Camaro or Mustang.
What is the common problem with the Toyota 86?
Many Toyota 86 owners have reported hearing a chirping noise coming from their fuel pump. In these cases, the fuel pump dies prematurely. Toyota never specified the root of this issue. The best way to deal with this issue is to replace your fuel pump ASAP.
What brz years to avoid?
If you're thinking about buying a used Subaru BRZ, it's wise to avoid the 2013 model year. As the first year of the BRZ in the U.S., it's not unusual for initial “teething” issues to arise, and the 2013 BRZ has more reported complaints than any other model year.
Why do BRZ engines fail?
Early on, forum critics suspected the popped engines were the result of oil starvation at the oil pickup, caused by a material known as RTV (room-temperature vulcanizing silicone). RTV is used in manufacturing to seal many components in the engine, like the oil pan, timing cover, heads, and valve covers.
How long will a BRZ engine last?
The community responded by sharing that BRZs can last for over 200,000 miles if maintained properly. Moreover, many users reported that their BRZs had reached high mileage without significant issues. Some users mentioned their daily-driven BRZs with 115,000 and 130,000 miles, respectively.
What is the best year for a Toyota 86?
Buy: 2022 Toyota 86
While you're essentially buying a new vehicle, the 2022 model year is the Toyota 86 in its best form. The most significant change is the addition of the 2.4-liter flat-four engine, replacing the previous 2.0-liter engine.
How many miles will a Toyota 86 last?
150,000 miles
Standard mileage for the Toyota 86 is 150,000 miles, which makes it normal for high mileage in the car to be anything around or over 120,000 miles. Once you reach this point, you're creeping into a territory where the Toyota 86 is far more likely to encounter troubles that cost more than the sports car is worth.
Is the Toyota GR86 reliable?
As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and styling to be its strongest features and quality to be its weakest. 6 out of 9 of owners (67% of them) rank the 2024 GR86 five out of five stars. Overall, consumers seem aligned in their opinions of the 2024 Toyota GR86.
