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2018 Toyota 86 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·10 Critical Recalls
2018 Toyota 86 Report

Overall Score

6.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The dominant fuel pump recall requires verification of repair.
  • Top complaints include steering and wheel issues, suggesting potential stability concerns.
  • A high TSB count indicates other minor issues may arise.
  • Rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission offer a pure sports car experience.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Toyota 86

The 2018 Toyota 86 is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that prioritizes driving enjoyment. It features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering 205 horsepower. While praised for its agile handling and driver-focused cockpit, potential buyers should be aware of its 10 recalls, particularly a widespread fuel pump issue. The vehicle received a 4-star rating for frontal crash tests and a 5-star rating for rollover resistance from NHTSA, though its overall safety rating is 'Not Rated'. Fuel economy is respectable, with an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined. The 86's compact size and sporty nature make it a compelling option for enthusiasts, but its practicality is limited by small rear seats and cargo space. Given the number of recalls, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners report shimmying and shaking, particularly when braking at highway speeds. This can indicate issues with brake rotor runout, wheel balance, or suspension/steering component wear.

Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$700 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls10
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

2
Steering1
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
24
MPG
City
21
MPG
Highway
28
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.8/ 10

Practicality

3.8/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking an affordable, RWD sports coupe with sharp handling and a manual transmission.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing passenger or cargo space.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Toyota 86 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Toyota 86.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Coupe
EPA Combined MPG
24

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering

Most reported

Usage: 1 reports

2. WHEELS

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $75 - $125

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
10 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Toyota 86 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Toyota 86 is 7.8/10. Reliability score is 7.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 10. Owner complaints: 2.

How practical is the 2018 Toyota 86 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 4.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Toyota 86?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Toyota 86 is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.6/10. Tuning 4.0/10. Practicality 3.8/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Toyota 86?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Brake Rotors (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Toyota 86?▾

Base MSRP is $26,455.

What engine is in the 2018 Toyota 86?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2018 Toyota 86 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota 86, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2018 86 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Toyota 86?▾

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Toyota 86?▾

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2018 Toyota 86?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota 86, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2018 Toyota 86?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota 86, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Toyota 86 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Toyota 86, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Toyota 86?▾

NHTSA ratings: Frontal 4/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Is the 2018 Toyota 86 good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 4/10. The 2018 Toyota 86 is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe known for its agile handling and engaging driving experience. It features a 2. Popular platforms: Toyota 86, Subaru BRZ.

What are the most common steering problems on the 2018 Toyota 86?▾

Top complaint category: steering (1 reports, 50% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Toyota 86?▾

This model year has 10 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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