2023 Toyota Gr86 Safety Report

The 2023 Toyota GR86 currently presents a mixed safety picture, with limited official crash test data but emerging patterns in owner complaints. NHTSA has not yet provided overall, frontal, side, or rollover safety ratings for this model year, making it difficult to assess its crashworthiness based on standardized tests. However, a total of 9 owner complaints have been filed, with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths. A significant concern is the single recall issued for 'EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS' by Gulf States Toyota, Inc., affecting the maximum capacity weight value, which could lead to overloading and increase crash risk. Analysis of the 9 complaints reveals a concentration around the ENGINE and FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, each accounting for 3 complaints. Specific issues include premature spark plug failure leading to misfires and loss of drivability, and multiple reports of fuel lines rubbing against other components (like the hood insulation) causing wear, which poses a potential fire hazard. One complaint even details an oil leak from spark tube seals, also identified as a fire hazard. These engine and fuel system issues suggest potential manufacturing or design flaws that warrant attention. Other reported issues, though less frequent, include an exterior lighting problem (dangling license plate light), a structure issue (driver's side window imploding without impact), and an electrical system/air bag/forward collision avoidance issue related to SRS system failure alerts. While the overall complaint volume is low for a new model year, the nature of the engine and fuel line complaints, particularly the fire risk associated with fuel line wear and oil leaks, are serious. Prospective buyers should be aware of these specific mechanical concerns, especially given the lack of official crash test ratings.

Our recommendation: Given the lack of official crash test ratings and emerging mechanical concerns like fuel line wear and engine issues, prospective buyers should exercise caution and thoroughly inspect the vehicle, especially the engine bay for fuel line routing and potential oil leaks, and ensure all recall work has been completed.