Hey guys, if you're thinking about snagging a Toyota 86, you're probably wondering one of the biggest questions: Is the Toyota 86 a reliable car? That's a super valid question. Nobody wants a car that's constantly in the shop, racking up repair bills, and generally causing headaches. In this article, we'll dive deep into the 86's reliability, looking at what makes it tick, potential issues, and how it stacks up against the competition. Let's get into it, shall we?

Understanding the Toyota 86's Mechanical Makeup

Alright, before we get to the heart of the matter, let's talk about what's under the hood. The Toyota 86, and its twin, the Subaru BRZ (they're basically the same car!), is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe. It's designed to be fun to drive, with a focus on handling and a relatively lightweight design. The engine is a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder boxer engine, sourced from Subaru. This is a key point, as Subaru's boxer engines have a specific design and a reputation, both good and bad, that we'll explore. The Toyota 86 is known for its simplicity. It doesn't have a lot of fancy tech that could potentially fail. This can actually be a good thing when it comes to reliability. Fewer parts often mean fewer things to go wrong. The car is also known for its good fuel economy. This is a nice bonus if you want to keep costs down.

The 86's drivetrain is pretty straightforward, which contributes to its overall reliability. The fact that the engine is naturally aspirated (meaning it doesn't have a turbocharger) is another factor that can contribute to reliability. Turbocharged engines can be more prone to issues due to the added complexity and stress on the engine components. The suspension, brakes, and other components are generally robust, designed to handle the demands of spirited driving, but still with a good degree of dependability. These components are, in general, pretty reliable, but of course, like any car, they can wear out over time.

So, from a mechanical standpoint, the 86 is built on a foundation that leans towards reliability. The engine design, the simplicity of the car, and the focus on handling contribute to a package that is designed to be relatively dependable. Of course, all cars have their weak points, and we will get into those as well. We will also talk about the reliability of the Subaru engine, as the engine is the heart of the car.

Common Problems and Potential Issues: What to Watch Out For

Alright, let's get real. No car is perfect, and the Toyota 86 has its fair share of potential issues. But, before you freak out, keep in mind that these are common issues, not necessarily guarantees of problems. Also, there are many 86 cars on the road that don't have these issues. The key is knowing what to look for and being prepared.

One of the most talked-about concerns, and this is where the Subaru influence really shines through, is the potential for oil consumption. Some owners have reported that their 86s burn a bit of oil, especially during hard driving or at higher mileages. This isn't necessarily a sign of a major problem, but it's something you should monitor. Checking your oil levels regularly is essential. If you notice a significant drop in oil between oil changes, it's worth investigating. Another common issue is the possibility of the throwout bearing failing, which can lead to clutch problems. This isn't a super common occurrence, but it's something to be aware of, particularly if you do a lot of city driving or track days. Also, it’s worth noting that if you buy a used 86, you don't know the life it has lived.

Aside from those, there are a few other things that have popped up over the years. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, particularly in earlier model years. These problems can range from software glitches to the system freezing. As cars get older, you might also see some minor electrical issues pop up. This could be anything from a faulty sensor to a problem with the lights or the power windows. The key takeaway is that these issues aren't widespread, and many of them can be addressed with relatively inexpensive fixes. Like all cars, the 86 can have issues over time, but generally, the main mechanicals of the car have proved to be pretty solid. Knowing these potential issues can help you be prepared and make a smart decision when buying the car.

Toyota 86 Reliability Ratings and Reviews: What the Experts Say

Now let's see what the experts are saying! When it comes to car reliability, a few sources stand out for their comprehensive data and analysis. J.D. Power, for example, is a well-known source of vehicle reliability ratings, and they typically base their ratings on owner surveys, gathering data on problems experienced by car owners. Consumer Reports also provides reliability ratings, and they put vehicles through rigorous testing. These assessments can be really valuable for getting a feel for the overall reliability of a car. Keep in mind that these ratings are based on averages. Individual experiences can vary, and there can be differences between model years.

Looking at the data, the Toyota 86 generally receives solid reliability ratings. It's often rated as being above average in its class. Keep in mind that the Subaru BRZ is mechanically identical to the Toyota 86. So, the reliability ratings are usually very similar. The ratings can fluctuate slightly from year to year, depending on the specific model and any design changes that have been made. However, the overall trend is positive. The 86 is designed to be a driver's car first and foremost, so you might expect some trade-offs in terms of features or luxury compared to some other cars. But, the fact that the 86 typically gets good reliability ratings is a big plus. It means you can enjoy the car without constantly worrying about major mechanical issues. Always keep in mind that these are just averages, and your experience could be different.

Owning a Toyota 86: Long-Term Reliability and Maintenance

If you're seriously considering buying an 86, you're probably wondering what it's like to live with this car long-term. What's the day-to-day experience like? One of the great things about the 86 is that it's a relatively easy car to live with. It's not a luxury car, so the maintenance is generally straightforward and doesn't involve a lot of specialized or expensive parts. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, is key to keeping your 86 running smoothly. Staying on top of these things will prevent many potential problems down the road.

One thing to keep in mind is that the 86 is a sports car. This means that you'll likely want to drive it spiritedly, which can put more stress on some components. Driving the car hard can increase the wear and tear on things like the brakes, tires, and clutch. It's a good idea to factor this into your maintenance schedule. Make sure that you are using good quality parts when doing maintenance. Another bonus is that there is a large community of 86 owners, so you can easily find information, tips, and support online. This can be super helpful if you run into any issues. The 86 is a relatively inexpensive car to own and maintain. If you take care of it, it should provide years of driving pleasure.

Comparing the Toyota 86 to the Competition

Okay, let's see how the 86 stacks up against its rivals. This is important because, when you’re shopping for a car, you always want to consider the alternatives. The 86's main competitor is its twin, the Subaru BRZ, but the list also includes other fun-to-drive cars. Some of these are the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Honda Civic Si, and even the Hyundai Veloster N.

When we look at the reliability of the 86 compared to these other cars, it generally holds its own. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is known for its excellent reliability. However, the MX-5 Miata is a roadster, and it is in a slightly different category than the 86. The Honda Civic Si is a sporty compact car with a strong reputation for reliability, as is the Hyundai Veloster N. Each of these cars has its own strengths and weaknesses. The 86 is known for its pure driving experience and its balance. It offers a combination of affordability, performance, and style that is hard to beat. The other cars are also great, so it really comes down to your priorities and what you're looking for in a car. Also consider that the market changes. You may find that some cars are less expensive in your area. Always consider the reliability ratings and reviews, compare the maintenance costs, and read reviews from other owners before making a decision.

Conclusion: Is the Toyota 86 a Reliable Car? The Verdict

So, after all this, is the Toyota 86 a reliable car? The answer is generally yes. It's a car that, by and large, has a good track record for reliability. The key is to be aware of the potential issues and to take care of the car with regular maintenance. The 86 is a fun car, so you'll want to take good care of it so that you can keep having fun. Keep an eye on your oil levels, be aware of the clutch issues, and stay on top of regular maintenance, and you should be good to go. It's a car that's designed to be enjoyed, not just to get you from point A to point B.

If you're looking for a sports car that's affordable, fun to drive, and generally reliable, the Toyota 86 is a strong contender. Just do your research, inspect the car carefully before you buy, and keep up with regular maintenance. Then, you can enjoy all the thrills this car has to offer.