2013 Scion FR-S — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $13,000–$20,000. This is one of the more reliable vehicles in its class — here's what to watch for anyway.
Kestrel Take
The Scion-badged twin of the BRZ, mechanically identical and usually a touch cheaper because of the defunct brand name. Same light rear-drive fun, same reliability, same checks: the valve-spring recall, track abuse, and modification. A clean FR-S is one of the best cheap driver's cars going.
Known Issues for the 2013 Scion FR-S
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.
Shares the 2013 valve-spring recall; verify it is closed on the VIN.
Repair cost range: $0 recall
Verify track history and inspect brakes, tires, clutch, and for oil-starvation.
Repair cost range: Varies
Enthusiast use wears the clutch; verify engagement.
Repair cost range: $800-$1,800
Toyota services these; mechanically identical to the BRZ, so parts are no issue.
Repair cost range: n/a
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗Open valve-spring recall
- ✗Heavy track abuse
- ✗A hack modified build
- ✗Salvage title
Good Signs
- ✓Recall closed
- ✓Light, documented use
- ✓Healthy clutch
- ✓Adult-owned with records
Found a specific Scion FR-S?
This page covers what goes wrong on the 2013 Scion FR-S in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.
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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.