2013 Scion FR-S
2013 Scion FR-S
Overview
The 2013 Scion FR-S, a joint venture with Subaru, is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe celebrated for its agile handling and driver engagement. Powered by a naturally aspirated Subaru Boxer engine, it offers a balanced and lightweight platform ideal for spirited driving. While generally well-regarded for its performance-oriented design, like any vehicle, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners regarding reliability. This analysis focuses on documented common issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for owners and prospective buyers of this enthusiast-focused car.
Engine
2.0L Naturally Aspirated Boxer (FA20)
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Higher than expected oil level drops between changes, potentially leading to low oil warnings.
- Solution: Regular oil level checks and top-offs. In some cases, internal engine modifications or component replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $500 - $2000+
Exhaust Manifold Cracks
- Symptoms: Exhaust leaks, ticking noises from the engine bay, particularly when cold.
- Solution: Replacement of the cracked exhaust manifold.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Valve Spring Issues (Early Models)
- Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, potential engine stalling.
- Solution: Replacement of affected valve springs. This was a recall/service campaign for some early production models.
- Cost: $0 (if under recall/warranty)
Transmission
6-Speed Manual
Clutch Pedal Spring Failure
- Symptoms: Clutch pedal may not return fully, making it difficult to shift gears.
- Solution: Replacement of the clutch pedal return spring.
- Cost: $100 - $250
Shifter Bushing Wear
- Symptoms: Vague or sloppy shifter feel, difficulty engaging certain gears.
- Solution: Replacement of worn shifter bushings.
- Cost: $50 - $150
6-Speed Automatic
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Standard Electrical System
Headlight Condensation
- Symptoms: Moisture or fogging inside headlight housings.
- Solution: Ensure seals are intact; sometimes requires headlight unit replacement if severe.
- Cost: $50 - $500
Key Fob Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Key fob battery dies prematurely.
- Solution: Check for parasitic drain or replace key fob battery.
- Cost: $20 - $100
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Components
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2013 Scion FR-S is generally considered a reliable sports car, particularly praised for its driving dynamics. The most commonly cited issues revolve around the engine, specifically oil consumption and potential exhaust manifold cracks, which are not uncommon for this engine type. Transmission issues are relatively minor, with some reports of clutch pedal spring or shifter bushing wear on manual models. Electrical and interior components are largely trouble-free, with only minor concerns like headlight condensation occasionally reported. Overall, the FR-S offers a good balance of performance and dependability for enthusiasts, provided regular maintenance and attention to known engine quirks are observed.