According to Au7o's analysis of 250+ owner reports, the 2018 Toyota 86 has 4 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is FA20 Valve Spring Recall (Campaign E0G/17V-587) ($0-$0 repair). The most commonly reported issue is FA20 Boxer Engine Oil Consumption Between Changes with 250 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $20 to $1,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2017-2020 Toyota 86, certain 2017-2020 Toyota 86 vehicles equipped with the FA20 (4U-GSE) boxer engine are subject to a valve spring recall. The valve springs may have been manufactured with an improper surface treatment, making them susceptible to fracture. A broken valve spring can cause engine misfires, rough running, and in severe cases, contact between the valve and piston causing catastrophic engine damage. Toyota recall campaign E0G (NHTSA 17V-587) covers free valve spring replacement at dealers.
Common Symptoms
Engine misfire on one or more cylinders
Rough idle or vibration
Check engine light with misfire codes
Ticking or tapping noise from engine
Loss of power
How to Fix
Confirm recall eligibility by VIN in Toyota’s recall lookup or NHTSA, then diagnose any current misfire/noise with a scan tool and cylinder balance/compression testing before teardown. The proper repair is dealer replacement of all affected FA20 valve springs using the recall procedure, which requires engine removal, cylinder head disassembly, installation of updated valve springs and related gaskets/seals, then precise cam timing reassembly and verification for misfire, oil leaks, and abnormal valvetrain noise. If a spring has already fractured, inspect for bent valves, piston contact, and cylinder head damage; additional engine repair or replacement may be required. Under recall campaign E0G/17V-587 the valve spring repair is performed at no charge, but out-of-pocket repairs after failure can run from several thousand dollars to full engine replacement costs.
What you need to diagnose it
The repair instructions explicitly call for reading stored codes. Use a scanner that can read the named code families before choosing a repair.The recommended scanner supports these code families; confirm your exact year, model and module coverage before buying.
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Reading and clearing the code is DIY work. Module replacement or reprogramming is not — most modules are VIN-programmed, so a new one does nothing until a shop codes it to your car. Check for an open recall or service bulletin before buying anything.
On the 2017-2020 Toyota 86 FA20, the FA20 engine in the Toyota 86 uses direct injection (port injection was added in later Subaru BRZ variants but not the Toyota 86). Without fuel washing over the intake valves, carbon deposits accumulate on the valve stems and ports, reducing airflow and causing rough running. The issue becomes noticeable around 40,000-60,000 miles. Walnut blasting the intake valves is the standard maintenance procedure to restore performance.
Common Symptoms
Rough idle that worsens over time
Hesitation during acceleration
Reduced engine power output
Slightly increased fuel consumption
Cold start roughness
How to Fix
Confirm intake-valve carbon buildup by scanning for misfire/lean codes, reviewing fuel trims, and inspecting the intake valves with a borescope after removing the intake manifold. The proper repair is to walnut blast the intake ports and valve backs with each cylinder closed, then replace the intake manifold gaskets and throttle-body gasket, clean the throttle body, and clear/adapt idle trims; spark plugs and the PCV valve are often replaced at the same time if due. On the FA20, this service typically restores idle quality and throttle response, and usually costs about $500-$900 at an independent shop or roughly $800-$1,300 at a dealer depending on labor rates and how much disassembly is required.
On the 2017-2020 Toyota 86 FA20, the FA20 boxer engine in the Toyota 86 consumes oil at rates of 1 quart per 3,000-4,000 miles, particularly when driven hard or at high RPM. The horizontally-opposed cylinder layout allows oil to pool on the piston rings during extended idle or cold starts, increasing consumption. This is considered within Subaru/Toyota spec but frustrates owners.
Common Symptoms
Oil level drops 1+ quart between changes
No visible external leaks
Slight oil smell after hard driving
Low oil warning light at high mileage
Carbon buildup on intake valves over time
How to Fix
Monitor oil level every 1,000 miles and top up as needed with 0W-20 synthetic. Switching to a higher quality synthetic like Motul or Pennzoil Ultra Platinum can reduce consumption slightly. Catch cans help reduce intake valve carbon buildup from PCV oil vapor.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy full-synthetic 0W-20, 5 quarts
level-maintenance consumable while consumption is measured and diagnosed Fitment/availability: 0W-20 maintenance/top-up branch only where the exact 2017-2020 Toyota 86 owner's manual specification is satisfied Fitment/availability: sold …
Genuine Toyota 90915-YZZS1 engine-oil filter element
engine-oil service filter when an oil change is due during the consumption test Fitment/availability: 2017-2020 Toyota 86 FA20 Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days and Add to Cart live when reviewed
Mishimoto MMBCC-BRZ-13PBE baffled PCV oil catch can V2
optional PCV-vapor/deposit-control branch only; not an oil-consumption repair Fitment/availability: 2017-2020 Toyota 86 FA20, manual or automatic and LHD or RHD; confirm local emissions rules Fitment/availability: Add to Cart live when r…
High Confidence250 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
On the 2013-2020 Toyota 86 2.0L FA20 Flat-4, the Toyota 86 (and its twin, the Subaru BRZ) is widely known for throwout bearing chirp — a cricket-like sound when the clutch pedal is depressed. While some level of noise is considered "normal" by Toyota, excessive chirping progresses to grinding and eventual bearing failure requiring transmission removal. The issue affects both the original release bearing and some replacement bearings.
Common Symptoms
Chirping or squeaking when clutch pedal is pressed
Noise worsens in cold weather
Grinding sensation in clutch pedal
Noise disappears at full engagement or full release
How to Fix
Mild chirping is considered normal and not harmful. If the noise becomes a loud grinding or the clutch pedal develops a rough feel, the throwout bearing should be replaced. This requires transmission removal ($600-$1,200 labor). Replace the clutch disc and pressure plate at the same time if they have over 60,000 miles. Some owners install an aftermarket bearing from ACT or Exedy for improved longevity.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Genuine Toyota SU003-07349 revised clutch release bearing
confirmed release-bearing failure branch Fitment/availability: 2017-2020 Toyota 86 2.0L FA20 manual transmission; replaces SU003-00802 Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days and Add to Cart live when reviewed
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
TipDon't rest your foot on the clutch pedal while driving. Even light pressure keeps the throwout bearing spinning against the pressure plate fingers and accelerates wear.
Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (Gulf States) is recalling certain 2017 4Runner , 86, Avalon, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Corolla iM, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius C, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Sienna and Yaris vehicles. The spare tire air pressure was not adjusted to the proper pressure as stated on the Tire Pressure Label.
Campaign #17V29500002/05/2017
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2017 Toyota 86 vehicles manufactured July 1, 2016 through August 11, 2016 equipped with an automatic transmission and ignition key. Vehicles with a push-to-start button or manual transmission are not affected. In the affected vehicles, it may be possible to remove the ignition key without the transmission being in the "Park" position. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Campaign #16V92000021/12/2016
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Campaign #21V58700029/07/2021
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
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According to Au7o's analysis of 250+ owner reports, the 2018 Toyota 86 has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: FA20 Valve Spring Recall (Campaign E0G/17V-587), Direct Injection Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves, FA20 Boxer Engine Oil Consumption Between Changes. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Toyota 86 reliable?
The 2018 Toyota 86 has 4 known issues documented across 250+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: FA20 Valve Spring Recall (Campaign E0G/17V-587). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Toyota 86 problems?
Repair costs for known Toyota 86 issues range from $0 to $1,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, FA20 Valve Spring Recall (Campaign E0G/17V-587), typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2017-2020 Toyota 86 FA20 Valve Spring Recall (Campaign E0G/17V-587)?
Certain 2017-2020 Toyota 86 vehicles equipped with the FA20 (4U-GSE) boxer engine are subject to a valve spring recall. The valve springs may have been manufactured with an improper surface treatment, making them susceptible to fracture. A broken valve spring can cause engine mis… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2017-2020 Toyota 86 Direct Injection Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves?
The FA20 engine in the Toyota 86 uses direct injection (port injection was added in later Subaru BRZ variants but not the Toyota 86). Without fuel washing over the intake valves, carbon deposits accumulate on the valve stems and ports, reducing airflow and causing rough running. Repairs typically run $300-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2017-2020 Toyota 86 FA20 Boxer Engine Oil Consumption Between Changes?
The FA20 boxer engine in the Toyota 86 consumes oil at rates of 1 quart per 3,000-4,000 miles, particularly when driven hard or at high RPM. The horizontally-opposed cylinder layout allows oil to pool on the piston rings during extended idle or cold starts, increasing consumption… Repairs typically run $20-$100. Severity: low.
What is the 2013-2020 Toyota 86 Throwout Bearing Chirp and Premature Failure?
The Toyota 86 (and its twin, the Subaru BRZ) is widely known for throwout bearing chirp — a cricket-like sound when the clutch pedal is depressed. While some level of noise is considered "normal" by Toyota, excessive chirping progresses to grinding and eventual bearing failure re… Repairs typically run $600-$1,500. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
