The Scion FR-S has become a popular choice among car enthusiasts since its debut. Known for its sporty handling, affordable price, and stylish design, it attracts both new drivers and experienced tuners. However, not all model years are equal. If you are considering buying a used Scion FR-S, you need to know which years to avoid and why. This article will help you understand the differences between model years, highlight common issues, and guide you toward the best options.
Why The Scion Fr-s Stands Out
The Scion FR-S, launched in 2012 for the 2013 model year, was a joint project between Toyota and Subaru. It shares its platform and engine with the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86. The FR-S is famous for its rear-wheel-drive layout, low center of gravity, and lightweight chassis.
These features make it an excellent choice for drivers who want an engaging driving experience without spending a fortune.
People love the FR-S for its balanced handling and simple, driver-focused interior. The car’s 2.0-liter boxer engine delivers 200 horsepower, which is enough for fun driving but not too much for beginners. Its affordable price makes it accessible to younger buyers and those looking for a weekend toy.
However, every car has its flaws. Over the years, owners and experts have identified certain problems in specific model years. If you want to enjoy the FR-S without headaches, knowing these pitfalls is essential.
Key Years To Avoid: Quick Overview
Some model years of the Scion FR-S have more issues than others. The 2013 and 2014 models, in particular, are often highlighted for reliability concerns. These early years faced engine problems, software bugs, and interior wear that later models improved upon.
It’s important to remember that not every FR-S from these years will have problems. Some owners never experience major issues. However, the risk is higher, and repairs can be expensive. By understanding the common problems, you can make a better decision.
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Detailed Year-by-year Breakdown
Let’s look deeper into each model year, focusing on major problems, recalls, and owner feedback.
2013 Scion Fr-s: The First Model Year
The 2013 FR-S was the first version released. As with many first-year cars, it had more bugs than later models. Some of the main issues include:
- Engine problems: Many owners reported engine failure or rough idling around 30,000 to 60,000 miles. The most common cause was a problem with the valve spring recall. Faulty valve springs could break, causing the engine to stall or even fail completely.
- Software glitches: The early automatic transmission sometimes shifted roughly due to outdated transmission software.
- Condensation in tail lights: Water often built up inside the tail lights, leading to electrical problems or bulb failure.
- Interior wear: Cheap materials in the cabin led to early wear on seats and trim.
One non-obvious insight: Many 2013 FR-S cars had their engines replaced under warranty, but not all dealerships performed the repair equally well. Some owners reported new issues after the recall work, such as oil leaks or abnormal noises.
2014 Scion Fr-s: Minor Improvements, Lingering Issues
The 2014 model fixed some problems but kept many of the same risks as the 2013. Key issues include:
- Continued valve spring risks: The engine recall continued, with some cars still experiencing failure after the fix.
- Radio and infotainment bugs: Owners found the stock radio sometimes froze or rebooted randomly.
- Paint quality: Thin paint led to easy chipping and scratching, especially on the hood and bumper.
It’s easy to overlook the impact of paint quality, but it can affect resale value and require expensive touch-ups later.
2015 Scion Fr-s: Improvements Appear
In 2015, Toyota and Subaru made small changes to improve reliability. Fewer engine failures were reported, but some problems continued:
- Rough idle: Some cars still had rough idling or stalling, mostly due to fuel injector issues or carbon buildup.
- Interior squeaks: Rattling and squeaking from the dashboard and doors became a common complaint.
- Clutch wear: Manual transmission models sometimes had premature clutch wear, especially if driven hard.
By 2015, the valve spring recall was less common, but not completely resolved.
2016 Scion Fr-s: Last Before The Name Change
The 2016 FR-S is the last model year before Toyota rebranded the car as the Toyota 86. This year saw the fewest complaints and benefited from fixes to earlier issues.
- Improved reliability: Most engine and transmission bugs were addressed.
- Better materials: Slightly upgraded interior trim and seat materials helped reduce early wear.
- Fewer recalls: No major recalls compared to previous years.
Still, some problems lingered, such as minor rattles and paint chipping.
Comparing Key Model Years
Here’s a quick comparison of the main issues across FR-S model years:
| Model Year | Engine Issues | Interior Quality | Electrical Problems | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | High (valve spring, rough idle) | Poor (wear, rattles) | Condensation in tail lights | Major (engine recall) |
| 2014 | Moderate (valve spring, idle) | Fair (some improvements) | Infotainment bugs | Major (engine recall) |
| 2015 | Lower (mainly idle issues) | Improved | Minor | Few |
| 2016 | Low | Best | Minimal | None significant |
Common Problems In Scion Fr-s Years To Avoid
Let’s look closer at the issues that make some FR-S years risky.
Engine Problems
The most serious concern is engine reliability, especially in the 2013 and 2014 models. The valve spring recall affected thousands of cars. When these springs break, the engine can stall or suffer major damage. Not all repairs were done perfectly, which means some cars remain at risk.
Another less-known issue is carbon buildup on the intake valves. The direct-injection engine design means fuel does not clean the valves as it does in older engines. Over time, this can cause rough idle or poor performance. Cleaning this requires special tools and can cost $500–$1,000.
Transmission And Clutch
Automatic transmissions in early models sometimes shifted harshly or hesitated. Manual models could suffer from early clutch wear, especially if previous owners drove aggressively. If you test-drive an FR-S and feel grinding or slipping, be cautious.
Interior And Build Quality
Many owners reported squeaks and rattles from the dashboard, doors, or rear seats. While these may seem minor, they can be annoying and difficult to fix. The early FR-S models used lower-quality plastics and fabrics, leading to quicker wear and a “cheap” feeling interior over time.
Electrical And Lighting
A unique issue is condensation in tail lights. Water can enter the tail light housing, causing bulbs to burn out or short circuits. Replacing the tail lights is not cheap, and the issue may return if the housing is not sealed properly.
Some 2014 models had infotainment system bugs, such as freezing screens or random restarts. While not a safety issue, it can be frustrating for daily use.
Paint And Exterior
Thin paint on the early FR-S models makes them prone to chips and scratches, especially on highways or in cold climates with road salt. Repainting or using protective film can help, but it adds cost.
Summary Of Main Issues By Year
To help you see the pattern, here’s a summary table:
| Issue | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valve spring failure | Common | Common | Rare | Very rare |
| Tail light condensation | Frequent | Some | Rare | Rare |
| Paint chipping | Common | Common | Some | Some |
| Interior wear | High | Medium | Lower | Lowest |
| Infotainment bugs | Rare | Some | Rare | Rare |
Real Owner Experiences
Hearing from actual owners can reveal problems that don’t show up in technical reviews.
One owner shared that after the valve spring recall, their FR-S started leaking oil from the engine. The dealership said the gasket was not installed correctly during the repair. It took several visits to fix everything. This story shows why recall work needs to be checked carefully.
Another driver bought a 2013 FR-S with 50,000 miles. After a few months, they noticed a rough idle and occasional stalling. A mechanic found carbon buildup on the intake valves, which required a costly cleaning. The owner wished they had checked the service history more carefully before buying.
Some 2015 and 2016 owners report very few problems, enjoying years of trouble-free driving. This highlights the importance of choosing a later model if you want to minimize risk.
How To Spot A Problem Fr-s
You can reduce your risk by knowing what to check before buying.
- Check recall records: Ask the seller if the valve spring recall was done. Get paperwork to prove it. If the repair was not done, avoid the car.
- Listen for noises: On a test drive, listen for engine knocking, rattles, or squeaks. Abnormal sounds can point to bigger issues.
- Inspect the tail lights: Look for water inside or fogged lenses. Replacing them can cost hundreds of dollars.
- Test the electronics: Try the radio, climate control, and all power windows. Watch for freezing or glitches.
- Check the paint: Walk around the car and look for chips or scratches, especially on the hood and front bumper.
- Ask about service history: Cars with regular oil changes and maintenance are safer bets.
- Have a mechanic inspect the car: A pre-purchase inspection can catch hidden problems.
A tip many buyers miss: Ask if the car was used for track days or racing. The FR-S is popular for motorsports, and hard driving can wear parts faster.
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Best Scion Fr-s Years To Buy
If you want an FR-S with fewer risks, focus on the 2015 and 2016 models. These years have better reliability and fewer major issues.
- 2015: By this year, most engine problems were fixed. Interior quality improved, and there were fewer recalls.
- 2016: The last and best FR-S year, with all major bugs addressed. These cars often cost a bit more but are worth it for peace of mind.
Be ready to pay a premium for low-mileage, well-maintained examples from these years. You’ll save money on repairs and enjoy a better ownership experience.
How Does The Fr-s Compare To Similar Cars?
You might wonder how the Scion FR-S stacks up against the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86. Since these cars share most parts, their reliability is nearly identical. However, the BRZ sometimes had better interior materials, and the Toyota 86 (after 2017) made small changes to improve comfort and quality.
Here’s a brief comparison:
| Model | Years Produced | Major Issues | Interior Quality | Resale Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scion FR-S | 2013–2016 | Valve springs (early), clutch wear | Good (improves after 2015) | Moderate |
| Subaru BRZ | 2013–present | Similar (engine issues early) | Better (some trims) | Good |
| Toyota 86 | 2017–present | Few major issues | Best | Best |
What To Do If You Already Own A Risky Year
If you own a 2013 or 2014 Scion FR-S, don’t panic. Many cars run well for years with proper care. Here’s how to protect your investment:
- Follow the maintenance schedule: Regular oil changes and inspections are key.
- Watch for warning signs: Pay attention to rough idle, odd noises, or dashboard lights. Address problems early.
- Check for open recalls: Visit your Toyota dealer to see if any recalls are still open for your car.
- Keep service records: Document all repairs and maintenance. This helps with resale and warranty claims.
If your car needs major engine work, compare the cost of repair to the car’s value. Sometimes, it makes sense to sell and upgrade to a newer FR-S or Toyota 86.
The Cost Of Repairs And Ownership
One reason some buyers avoid the early FR-S is the cost of repairs. Here are average prices for common fixes:
- Valve spring replacement: $1,500–$3,000 (if not covered by recall)
- Clutch replacement: $900–$1,500
- Tail light replacement: $200–$400 per light
- Carbon cleaning (intake valves): $500–$1,000
Insurance costs are moderate for most drivers, but can be higher for young or inexperienced owners. Fuel economy is good for a sports car, averaging 25–28 mpg combined.
One overlooked cost: If you modify your FR-S, some insurance companies may increase your rates or refuse coverage. Always check before adding turbochargers, body kits, or racing parts.
Tips For Buying A Used Scion Fr-s
Here are some practical steps to make your search safer and smarter:
- Choose a 2015 or 2016 model if possible. These years have the fewest problems and better resale value.
- Ask for service records. A well-documented car is less likely to have hidden issues.
- Test everything during your inspection. Don’t skip the electronics, climate control, or trunk.
- Bring a mechanic if you’re not sure. A professional eye can spot repairs, accidents, or worn parts.
- Consider certified pre-owned options. Some Toyota dealers offer extended warranties on used FR-S or 86 models.
- Negotiate if you find minor issues. Small paint chips or interior wear can be bargaining points.
Common Buyer Mistakes To Avoid
Many first-time buyers make errors that cost them later. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Ignoring the recall history: Always confirm if the engine recall work was done and documented.
- Skipping the test drive: Short test drives can miss engine or transmission problems. Spend at least 15–20 minutes on different roads.
- Buying a heavily modified car: Cars with engine swaps, turbos, or racing parts may look cool but often have more problems and higher insurance.
- Focusing only on price: The cheapest FR-S is rarely the best deal. Pay for a clean history and proven maintenance.
- Not budgeting for repairs: Even good FR-S models may need brakes, tires, or clutch work as they age. Set money aside for these costs.
A useful tip: Check local online forums for known issues in your area. Cold climates, for example, can make paint and lighting problems worse.
Should You Avoid The Scion Fr-s Completely?
Despite the issues with early years, the FR-S is still a great car for the right buyer. Its low weight, precise steering, and sporty feel are hard to match at its price. If you do your homework and choose the right year, you can enjoy a reliable, fun sports car without breaking the bank.
If you want the lowest risk, focus on 2015 or 2016 models, or consider the newer Toyota 86. If you love the look and feel of the FR-S but find only a 2013 or 2014 in your price range, check its history and have a mechanic inspect it carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Scion Fr-s Reliable?
The FR-S is generally reliable, especially in 2015 and 2016. Early models (2013–2014) had engine and interior quality issues, but many were fixed under recall or warranty. Regular maintenance is key to long-term reliability.
What Is The Valve Spring Recall, And Why Does It Matter?
The valve spring recall affected 2013 and 2014 FR-S models. Faulty springs could break, causing engine failure. Toyota and Subaru fixed many cars under warranty, but some repairs were not done perfectly. Always check recall records before buying.
How Much Does It Cost To Maintain A Scion Fr-s?
Basic maintenance is affordable (oil changes, brakes, tires). Major repairs like valve spring replacement or clutch work can be expensive. Budget $500–$1,000 per year for normal upkeep, but more if the car has high miles or was driven hard.
Is The Scion Fr-s Expensive To Insure?
Insurance is moderate for most drivers, but can be higher for young or inexperienced owners. Rates also rise if the car is modified or used for racing. Always compare quotes before buying.
Are The Subaru Brz And Toyota 86 Better Options?
They are nearly identical mechanically. The Subaru BRZ sometimes has better interior features, and the Toyota 86 (after 2017) made small improvements for comfort and reliability. All three are good choices if you pick the right model year.
If you want more technical details and recall information, visit the official NHTSA website for government safety data.
The Scion FR-S can be a fantastic car if you choose wisely. By avoiding risky years and following smart buying advice, you can enjoy everything this sporty coupe has to offer.
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