2020 Toyota 86

The 2020 Toyota 86 is a popular rear-wheel-drive sports car known for its engaging handling and affordability. It features a 2.0-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine producing 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque when equipped with the manual transmission, or 200 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque with the automatic. It is available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 86’s nimble handling, communicative steering, and overall fun-to-drive factor, but some common complaints include the lack of low-end torque, road noise, and somewhat basic interior.

Engine

2.0L Boxer Four-Cylinder

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light. May be caused by carbon buildup on the fuel injectors, especially with direct injection engines.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty fuel injectors. Cleaning the fuel injectors might temporarily resolve the issue, but replacement is often necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Spring Failure (Specific to early models)
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, and potential engine damage. Often occurs at higher RPMs. A recall was issued for certain earlier models of the engine in other vehicles with the same engine. While not specifically a 2020 86 issue, the potential remains.
  • Solution: Replacing valve springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into certain gears, particularly 2nd and 3rd, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected synchros or rebuilding the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear. Can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold.
  • Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush and refill. In some cases, reprogramming the transmission control module (TCM) might help. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush), $500 - $1500+ (valve body), $3000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive noise from the rear suspension, visible leaks from the shock absorber.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Head Unit Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezes, Bluetooth connectivity problems, screen malfunctions, and unresponsive touch screen.
  • Solution: Software update to the head unit (if available). In some cases, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (software update), $500 - $1500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Rattling/Buzzing Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattles or buzzing sounds emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck. Often occurs on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locating the source of the rattle and applying foam padding, felt tape, or other sound-deadening materials to eliminate the vibration.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (depending on complexity and whether a professional is hired)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Toyota 86 is a generally reliable sports car, but like any vehicle, it has its share of potential issues. Engine problems, while less common, can be costly, especially if fuel injector issues arise or valve spring failure occurs on earlier models. Transmission issues, specifically synchro wear in the manual and rough shifting in the automatic, are worth noting. Suspension issues are not overly common but should still be inspected. Electrical and interior issues are generally less severe, but head unit malfunctions and rattles can be frustrating. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and thoroughly inspect any used 2020 Toyota 86 before purchase. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for major engine or transmission work.