IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2014–2015 Toyota GT86

We've identified 2 known issues that can affect the 2014–2015 Toyota GT86. None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

2
Known Issues
0
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Manual Transmission Clutch Throwout Release Bearing Failure

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

Manual transmission GT86 models suffer from premature wear and grease drying in the factory clutch throwout (release) bearing between 40,000 and 70,000 miles. The defect begins as an irritating high-pitched chirping whistle when idling in neutral that disappears when depressing the clutch, eventually deteriorating into a loud metallic grinding noise, stiff pedal travel, and catastrophic bearing disintegration that scores the transmission quill sleeve.

Est. Repair Cost: £450–£850
Warning Signs:

High-pitched chirping or whistling noise at idle with foot off the clutch pedal, Grinding or scraping sensation through clutch pedal during gear changes, Difficulty selecting 1st and reverse gears when stationary

What to Inspect:
  • With engine running in neutral, rest foot gently on clutch pedal to see if chirping changes or stops
  • Check invoices to see if an updated 2017+ revised release bearing or full clutch kit has been installed
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Rear Steel Subframe and Suspension Linkage Surface Salt Corrosion

MinorSuspension & Chassis

Because the GT86 sits low to the ground and features minimal factory cavity wax on underbody suspension components, exposure to salted winter roads in the UK causes heavy surface rust and oxidation across the rear steel subframe, toe arms, anti-roll bar brackets, and rear brake dust shields. Left untreated, rusted fasteners seize firmly into suspension bushes, inflating labour costs for routine wheel alignment.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£550
Warning Signs:

Flaking rust and heavy orange scaling visible across rear suspension arms and subframe welds, Creaking or squeaking noises from rear suspension over speed humps in dry weather, MOT advisory noted for suspension component mounting obviously rusted

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the rear subframe, exhaust backbox, and differential casing with a torch for deep rust scale
  • Check if previous owners had anti-corrosion underseal or Lanoguard protection applied
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2014–2015 Toyota GT86

  • On 2012–2013 cars, verify whether the official DVSA valve spring recall was carried out, and examine post-recall service history for clean oil pressure.
  • Depress the clutch pedal slowly on manual cars while listening for a chirping or screeching throwout bearing at idle.
  • Inspect the rear subframe, exhaust backbox, and lower suspension arms thoroughly for surface corrosion caused by British road salt.
  • Check engine oil level on the dipstick prior to test driving; the FA20 boxer burns oil if driven hard without regular top-ups.
  • Listen for a high-pitched cricket-like chirping sound from the high-pressure fuel pump at idle, a well-known harmless characteristic.
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Check a 2014–2015 Toyota GT86 by Registration