What modifications owners actually make to the Toyota 86

The Toyota 86 (also called the Scion FR-S in earlier model years) is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive coupe built for handling rather than raw power. Because of that design, most owners modify it in one of three directions: suspension and handling, engine output, or appearance. The modifications range from bolt-on parts that take an afternoon to install, to engine rebuilds that require a shop and several thousand dollars.

The 86 has a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 205 horsepower in current models. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission standard. That combination appeals to drivers who want to feel the car respond to their input, but it also means many owners want more power or sharper handling. The aftermarket support for the 86 is substantial — parts are available from dozens of manufacturers, and installation shops in most cities have experience with the platform.

Key Takeaways

  • Suspension modifications (coilovers, sway bars, bushings) typically cost $800 to $3,000 and are the most common upgrades because they improve how the car handles without requiring engine work.
  • Turbocharger kits range from $4,000 to $8,000 installed and add 100+ horsepower, but void the factory warranty and require supporting modifications to fuel and cooling systems.
  • Exhaust, intake, and tune modifications cost $500 to $2,000 combined and add 15–25 horsepower with minimal reliability risk if done carefully.
  • Wheel and tire upgrades cost $1,200 to $2,500 for a quality set and directly improve both handling and appearance without mechanical complexity.
  • Labor costs for installation vary widely by region and shop; getting quotes from three shops before ordering parts can save hundreds of dollars.

Suspension modifications that change how the car handles

Suspension work is where most 86 owners start because the factory suspension is tuned for comfort and tire wear, not track performance. The most common upgrade is a set of coilovers — adjustable shock absorbers and springs that replace the factory struts. Brands like Tein, Stance, KW, and Ohlins make 86-specific kits. Prices range from $800 for entry-level coilovers to $2,500 for adjustable damping models that let you tune compression and rebound separately.

Beyond coilovers, owners often add sway bars (also called anti-roll bars) to reduce body roll in corners. The factory sway bars are relatively soft; aftermarket bars from companies like Whiteline or Eibach cost $300 to $600 and bolt on in under an hour. Many owners also replace the rubber bushings throughout the suspension with polyurethane or spherical bearing versions, which reduce flex and improve feedback. That work costs $400 to $800 in parts and labor combined.

Suspension modifications do not increase horsepower, but they make the 86's existing power feel more usable because the car stays flatter in corners and responds more directly to steering input. They also reduce tire wear if you drive aggressively, because the car is not rolling and sliding as much. The trade-off is a stiffer ride on rough roads — coilovers set up for track use can be uncomfortable in daily driving.

Engine modifications and the cost of adding power

The 86's engine is a Subaru-sourced flat-four that is reliable but not powerful. Adding horsepower requires choosing between bolt-on modifications (exhaust, intake, tune) or forced induction (turbocharger or supercharger). Bolt-on work is cheaper and less invasive; forced induction adds more power but introduces complexity and cost.

Exhaust and intake modifications are the entry point. A cat-back exhaust (from the catalytic converter back) costs $400 to $800 and adds 5–10 horsepower with a louder sound. An intake system costs $200 to $400. A professional tune (a reprogramming of the engine computer) costs $300 to $600 and can add another 10–15 horsepower when combined with exhaust and intake work. Together, these three modifications cost $900 to $1,800 and add roughly 20–25 horsepower with minimal reliability risk if done by a reputable tuner.

Turbocharger kits are the next step up. A complete kit (turbo, manifold, intercooler, piping, fuel injectors, and engine management) costs $4,000 to $8,000 before labor. Installation takes 40–60 hours at a shop, which adds $2,000 to $4,000 depending on your region. A turbo kit adds 100–150 horsepower and transforms the car's acceleration, but it also voids the factory warranty, requires premium fuel, and puts stress on the transmission and differential. Many owners who turbo their 86 also upgrade the clutch ($800–$1,200), limited-slip differential ($1,500–$2,500), and fuel system to handle the extra power reliably.

Superchargers are less common on the 86 than turbos because they are more expensive (kits run $6,000–$10,000 installed) and add less power (80–100 horsepower). The advantage is that they provide boost when ready at low RPM, whereas turbos have a slight delay. For most owners, a turbo kit offers better value if you are willing to accept the complexity.

Wheels, tires, and exterior appearance

Wheel and tire upgrades are popular because they improve both handling and appearance. The factory 86 comes with 17-inch wheels and all-season tires. Upgrading to a set of 18-inch lightweight forged wheels with summer performance tires costs $1,200 to $2,500 depending on the brand and size. Lighter wheels reduce unsprung weight (the weight that is not supported by the suspension), which improves acceleration, braking, and handling. Performance tires grip harder than all-season tires, especially in corners.

Other common exterior modifications include a front splitter, side skirts, and a rear wing or spoiler. These parts are mostly cosmetic, though a front splitter can improve aerodynamic balance at high speeds. Splitters and skirts cost $300 to $800 each. A quality rear wing costs $400 to $1,200. Paint protection film (a clear coating applied to the front bumper, hood, and mirrors to prevent rock chips) costs $800 to $1,500 installed.

Interior modifications are less common but include a short-throw shifter ($200–$400), a roll cage for track use ($1,500–$3,000), and custom seats ($1,000–$3,000 per seat). These are personal choices that do not affect performance but can improve comfort or safety depending on how you use the car.

Reliability and warranty concerns when modifying

The 86's engine and transmission are robust, but modifications change how they operate and can introduce failure points if not done carefully. A professional tune on a stock engine with bolt-on parts is generally safe; the tuner is working within the engine's limits. A turbo kit, by contrast, increases cylinder pressure and heat, which stresses the pistons, valves, and gaskets. Many owners who turbo their 86 report reliability issues after 50,000–100,000 miles if the tune is aggressive or if supporting modifications (fuel system, cooling) are not done properly.

Toyota's factory warranty covers the 86 for three years or 36,000 miles. Any modification that changes engine output or function will void the warranty for that system. If you modify the engine and then the engine fails, Toyota will not cover the repair. Suspension and appearance modifications do not typically void the warranty, but it is worth asking your dealer before you modify.

The most reliable approach is to use established parts from reputable manufacturers, have the work done by a shop with experience on the 86, and keep detailed records of what was done and when. If you plan to keep the car long-term, conservative modifications (suspension, wheels, exhaust, intake) are safer than aggressive engine work.

How to budget for modifications and avoid overspending

A realistic budget depends on what you want the car to do. If you want better handling for daily driving and occasional track days, budget $2,000 to $4,000 for coilovers, sway bars, wheels, and tires. If you want more power, add another $1,500 to $2,500 for exhaust, intake, and a tune. If you want a turbo, budget $6,000 to $12,000 installed, plus another $2,000 to $4,000 for supporting modifications.

Labor costs vary significantly by region. A shop in a major city may charge $100–$150 per hour, while a shop in a rural area might charge $60–$80. Getting written quotes from three shops before you order parts can save hundreds of dollars. Some shops also offer package deals if you do multiple modifications at once, because they can schedule the work more efficiently.

A common mistake is buying parts without a plan. Ordering a turbo kit, then realizing you also need a new fuel pump, injectors, and a tune, then discovering your shop is booked for three months, leads to frustration and wasted money. Decide what you want the car to do, research what modifications are needed to achieve that, get quotes from shops, and then order everything at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will modifications make my 86 faster in a straight line?

Bolt-on modifications (exhaust, intake, tune) add 20–25 horsepower, which is noticeable but not dramatic. A turbo kit adds 100–150 horsepower and makes the car significantly faster. Suspension modifications do not add horsepower but improve acceleration out of corners because the car is not rolling or sliding as much.

Can I install modifications myself if I have basic mechanical skills?

Exhaust, intake, and wheels are bolt-on jobs that a competent DIY mechanic can handle in a day or two. Coilovers and sway bars require spring compressors and alignment afterward, which most people should have a shop do. Turbo kits and engine tuning require specialized tools and informed; attempting these yourself risks damaging the engine.

What modifications are legal for street driving?

Exhaust, intake, wheels, and suspension modifications are legal in most states as long as the exhaust meets noise regulations (usually 95 decibels or less). Some states have emissions testing that may reject a modified car if the tune removes emissions equipment. Check your local regulations before modifying the emissions system.

How much will modifications affect my insurance?

Insurance companies typically do not charge more for suspension or appearance modifications. Engine modifications (turbo, supercharger, tune) may increase your premium by 10–20 percent because they increase the car's power and the risk of an accident. Call your insurance company before you modify to ask how it will affect your rate.

Should I modify my 86 if I plan to sell it later?

Suspension and wheel upgrades hold value reasonably well because buyers can see the quality of the parts. Engine modifications are harder to sell because buyers worry about reliability and warranty. If you plan to sell within five years, stick to suspension and appearance modifications. If you plan to keep the car long-term, engine modifications are more justifiable.