The 2nd-gen GR86 shares the FA24 with the Subaru BRZ — 228 hp, no head gasket concerns from the outgoing FA20, balanced rear-drive chassis. One of the most rewarding driver cars available used. Main risks mirror BRZ: clutch wear on manual, coilover/modification history from track or autocross use. Lightly-modified or stock examples are clean buys. Toyota Gazoo Racing badge signals intentional driving focus.
Items to check
8
Open recalls
0
NHTSA complaints
40
Top concern
Minimal
Powertrain
FA24 — no FA20 head gasket issue
Low Risk
Clean engine. No widespread failure modes on 2nd gen.
Cold-start idle smooth. Coolant level check. No white exhaust.
Est. cost: Routine maintenanceSource: Toyota FA24 reliability data
Manual clutch wear
Monitor
Sports car clutches wear faster with spirited use. Check engagement height.
Clutch should engage in middle third of pedal travel.
Est. cost: $800–$1,400 clutch replacementSource: AutoVetting editorial
Modification Check
Lowering / track use evidence
Monitor
GR86 is popular for track days. Inspect for aggressive tire wear patterns and very low ride height.
Check ride height (stock ~5.1" clearance). Inspect tires for aggressive wear or heat cycling (marble surface).
Est. cost: $500–$2,000 restorationSource: AutoVetting editorial
Documentation
Service + modification records
Monitor
Ask about track participation and any modifications.
Request all records. Ask directly about track use.
Est. cost: n/aSource: AutoVetting editorial
What the VIN tells you
The 2nd-gen GR86 (ZN8, 2022–present) is built by Subaru alongside the BRZ and uses a single engine — the 2.4L FA24 naturally-aspirated boxer four (228 hp) — so there is no engine-family fork to decode; every U.S. GR86 has the same motor. (The GR86 carries a Subaru-style VIN in which the 8th digit encodes the restraint system, not the engine.) The distinction that actually changes your inspection is the transmission: a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. On manual cars, verify clutch engagement height (the middle third of pedal travel) and ask directly about track or autocross use; automatics have no clutch-wear concern but should have documented fluid history. Use the 10th VIN digit for model year (N = 2022, P = 2023). Confirm the transmission and exact spec with a full decode at autovetting.com/decode or vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov, and run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls before purchase.
Independent pre-purchase inspection — we arrange it and walk you through the findings.
Send us the listing and we reply within 1 business day. Nothing due until we confirm a mechanic and a time. Piloting in Phoenix; other US metros by arrangement.
The Vetting Report: this VIN’s full recall status, known-failure cost ranges, negotiation talking points, and inspection priorities — delivered within 24 hours.