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Toyota GR86 common problems: what to check before you buy

Credov's researched list of the 2 faults the Toyota GR86 is known for, 2 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.

Known problems on the Toyota GR86

Excess RTV sealant blocks the oil pickup

Safety risk

FA24D · petrol · Engine

What to look for: Pull the dipstick and look for strands or blobs of grey or black silicone on it.

Why it matters: Dozens of owners reported it in 2022-23, with failures at roughly 15,000-30,000 km, and owners have found silicone strings on the dipstick and in the sump. Toyota did not issue a bulletin and handled claims case by case. The fix is to drop the sump, clean the strainer and pickup, and reseal; if bearings are damaged it needs an engine. Left unrepaired this is a safety risk on top of the repair bill.

Sources: 1 2 3

Rod bearing failure, engine knock

Safety risk

FA24D · petrol · Engine

What to look for: Warm the engine and listen low near the sump at idle and 3,000 rpm for a knock, and check the oil level.

Why it matters: A spun bearing usually means a replacement engine, and warranty claims have been refused where track use was shown.

Sources: 1 2 3

Got a question about a Toyota GR86? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.

Also check on every car

On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.

Other Toyota models

Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.