2013 Scion FR-S: what it really costs to own

What owners actually report

Straight from the NHTSA complaints database for the 2013 Scion FR-S — not an estimate.

Open recalls

4 NHTSA recall campaigns for this model year.

• ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

  Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Subaru Impreza, 2012-2013 Impreza Stationwagon, 2013 Subaru BRZ, XV Crosstrek and Toyota Scion FR-S vehicles. The engine valve springs in these vehicles may fracture causing an engine malfunction or a possible engine stall.

• POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH

  Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Toyota Scion FR-S vehicles manufactured March 13, 2012, to January 14, 2016 and equipped an automatic transmission and ignition key. Vehicles with a push-to-start button are not affected. In the affected vehicles, it may be possible to remove the ignition key without the transmission being in the "Park" position. As such, t

• EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

  TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2013 SCION FR-S VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 22, 2012, THROUGH MAY 14, 2012. THE OWNER’S MANUAL CONTAINS AN INACCURATE DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTUAL OPERATION OF THE FRONT PASSENGER OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM. OTHER PORTIONS OF THE OWNER’S MANUAL, DESCRIBING THE AIR BAG SYSTEM, REQUIRE CLARIFICATION. AS SUCH, THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL

• EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

  Southeast Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 and 2010-2013 Toyota Tundra, 2010-2012 Rav4, 2012 Toyota Sequoia, 2010-2011 Toyota Corolla, 2010-2011 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser, 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser, 2010-2013 Toyota Venza, 2010-2011 Toyota 4Runner, 2010-2013 Toyota Tacoma, 2011-2012 Toyota Sienna, 2012 To

Common issues and what they cost

• Front timing cover / cam carrier oil seep $800 - $2,000

  FA20 engines commonly develop oil seepage from the timing cover or cam carrier sealant as the factory RTV ages and heat-cycles. Leaks are usually slow but can coat the front of the engine and lower oil level over time if ignored.

• Ignition coils / spark plugs causing misfire $250 - $700

  At this mileage, spark plugs and coil packs can weaken from heat and long service intervals, leading to intermittent misfires, rough idle, and flashing CEL under load. Replacing plugs often helps; persistent misfires may require one or more coils.

• Wheel bearings (rear more common) noise $350 - $750

  Wheel bearings can wear from mileage, impacts, or aggressive driving, producing a humming or growling that changes with speed and cornering. If left too long, play can develop and affect ABS readings or tire wear. Replacement is straightforward per corner.

• Suspension wear: struts, end links, control arm bushings $300 - $1,500

  Rubber bushings, sway bar end links, and struts wear with age and road impacts, causing clunks over bumps, vague steering, and uneven tire wear. These cars are sensitive to alignment; worn parts can make it hard to keep specs. Repairs vary by components replaced.

• A/C compressor or condenser leak $250 - $1,200

  A/C performance can drop as seals age or the condenser takes stone damage, leading to slow refrigerant loss and warm air at idle. Compressors can also get noisy if run low on refrigerant. Proper diagnosis includes leak testing before recharging.

Depreciation outlook