My check engine light is on. Is it safe to drive?

Basic rule that holds true with any vehicle, if the check engine light is on steady, and the vehicle is running ok with good oil pressure and not overheating, then it should be safe to drive until you can have the vehicle checked by your shop. If however the check engine light is flashing, and or you detect a performance problem, then it’s not recommended to drive the vehicle any distance.

My battery light is on in the dash. Is it safe to drive?

Normally when the battery light is on, that indicates a possible issue with the alternator. If indeed the alternator isn’t recharging the battery, you run the risk of being stranded if driven as the battery voltage will become depleted.

When should I have maintenance items like spark plugs, driveline fluids, timing belt, filters, etc?

By far the easiest way to keep up with all the maintenance items on your vehicle is to stay close to the Manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Remember all vehicles may not have the same service intervals for a certain item. So It’s always best to check the owner's manual for your specific vehicle.

We are driving on a long trip soon, but my car isn’t due for any maintenance yet. Should I have the vehicle looked over before leaving?

Absolutely 100% you should have the vehicle checked over before driving on any long trips. Things like spare tire pressure, quick visual inspection of tires for nails/cuts and pressures. Visual inspection under the hood to assure no leaks and all fluid levels are good. These things take maybe 15 minutes and are totally worth the piece of mind while traveling long distances.

There is a warning light on in my dash. What should I do? It seems to be running ok.

Every warning light on the instrument panel has a purpose. Warning lights are there to alert us that a computer/module has detected an abnormality in one of the systems on your vehicle. If you’re not sure what the light indicates, there is a section in your owner's manual that will give detailed information related to the light in question.

I have noticed a fluid leak under my car when parking ?

Any fluid leak should be inspected by your shop to verify the source. Trying to identify fluid on your driveway or parking lot can be a bit tricky. Coolant while water based, can have an oily feel on your fingers and may lead you to think it’s engine oil. Engine oil and transmission fluid are similar, but transmission fluid if not too spent, will have a red look unless it’s a CVT transmission. Engine oil could be darker looking, or clear if you just had the oil changed recently. Brake fluid is usually clear, but oily feeling much like engine oil. Checking the under hood fluid levels many times can lead you in the right direction.

How often should I change my engine oil?

I don’t think any 2 vehicle manufacturers are the same. At Creech Import Repair, we recommend every 5,000 miles to change the oil and filter. Many mfg’s recommend longer intervals, but if they extend past 5k we highly recommend checking the engine oil level every 1,000 miles. By nature of design, any internal combustion engine is going to use or consume some amount of oil. Also detergent in oil is designed to suspend by-products of combustion, which is what eventually turns the engine oil dark. At some point the detergent content will become loaded and can’t store anymore. This is the point when the engine can start to gum up inside with deposits and can be harmful to your engine and shorten its life.

Toyota 86 & GR86 Performance Repair

Performance-Focused Maintenance & Repairs for Toyota’s Modern Sports Coupe

The Toyota 86 (formerly the Scion FR-S in North America before Toyota rebranding) is one of the most celebrated modern affordable sports cars, offering rear-wheel drive, sharp steering, and a lightweight chassis. Co-developed with Subaru, the 86 is powered by the FA20/FA24 flat-four engine and is beloved for its communicative handling, balanced weight distribution, and pure driving feel.

From spirited weekend drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway to everyday commuting through Raleigh traffic, your Toyota 86 thrives with expert maintenance. At Creech Import Repair,, we’ve spent over 30 years keeping Toyota’s performance and specialty models running at their best. We understand the engineering under the hood, the needs of enthusiasts, and the preventive maintenance that keeps your car reliable—whether it’s stock or modified.

Why Raleigh Drivers Trust Creech Import Repair for Toyota 86 Service

Performance Platform Expertise – We understand the engineering behind the FA20 and FA24 boxer engines, the direct and port fuel injection systems, and the unique needs of a high-revving, naturally aspirated sports car. We also know how different driving styles—daily commuting vs. autocross or track days—affect maintenance schedules.
Customized Maintenance Strategies – We tailor service plans for Raleigh’s climate and driving conditions. Heat and humidity can stress cooling systems; short trips in stop-and-go traffic may require more frequent oil changes; and spirited driving can accelerate brake and suspension wear.
Upfront & Honest Diagnostics – We explain every service in plain language and never push unnecessary repairs. Whether it’s a check engine light or a brake squeal, you’ll know exactly what’s wrong, why it matters, and how we’ll fix it.
OEM & Premium Aftermarket Options –We use genuine Toyota parts or proven performance alternatives when appropriate. Our approach preserves your car’s handling, safety, and resale value—while accommodating performance upgrades when desired.
Family-Owned Service You Can Count On – You’ll work directly with our experienced, ASE-certified team, and we’ll treat your 86 like our own. Many of our customers have trusted us with their sports cars for decades.

Common Toyota 86 & GR86 Problems by Generation

2013–2016 Scion FR-S / Early Toyota 86

Valve Spring Recall Issues – Some early models experienced valve spring failure, which could cause engine stalling.
Solution: Install updated OEM valve springs.
Condensation in Tail Lights – Water intrusion leads to foggy lenses or bulb failure.
Solution: Replace or reseal tail light assemblies.
Crickets from Fuel Pump – High-pressure fuel pumps in early models sometimes make a chirping noise.
Solution: Replace pump with updated design.

2017–2020 Toyota 86 (First Facelift)

Direct Injection Carbon Buildup – Can cause loss of performance over time.
Solution: Perform periodic walnut blasting or chemical intake cleaning.
Throw-Out Bearing Noise – Manual transmission models sometimes develop noisy clutch throw-out bearings.
Solution: Replace bearing and inspect clutch.
Infotainment Connectivity Glitches – Issues with Bluetooth pairing or audio dropouts.
Solution: Software updates or head unit replacement.

2022–Present GR86 (Second Generation)

Rod Bearing Failures Under Track Use – Linked to insufficient oil warm-up or low oil levels during aggressive driving.
Solution: Frequent oil changes, high-quality synthetic oil, and oil pressure monitoring.
Differential Whine – Some units produce noise under load.
Solution: Inspect and service differential fluid or replace bearings.
ADAS Sensor Calibration Needs – After windshield replacement or collision repairs, ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) may require recalibration.

Toyota 86 & GR86 Services We Offer

Our shop is equipped to handle all the usual 86 & GR86 concerns, as well as routine services that keep your car running efficiently.

🔧

Engine & Driveability

Spark plug and ignition coil replacement
Valve cover gasket repair
Fuel injector cleaning
Idle air control and VVT solenoid service
Engine diagnostics and check engine light analysis
Oil leak repair

❄️

Heating & Cooling

A/C system inspection and recharging
Compressor and condenser replacement
Radiator and water pump repair
Cabin filter changes
Blower motor diagnostics

🚗

Suspension & Braking

Brake pad and rotor replacement
Brake fluid flush
Suspension inspections and strut/shock replacement
Control arm and sway bar link repair
ABS light diagnosis and wheel speed sensor service

⚡

Electrical & Interior

Battery testing and alternator diagnostics
TPMS sensor replacement and calibration
Window and door lock actuator service
Infotainment screen troubleshooting
Sensor recalibration for safety systems

Signs Your Toyota 86 & GR86 Needs Service

Even a well-built sports car like the Toyota 86 or GR86 will show warning signs when something’s wrong. Ignoring these early symptoms can lead to more expensive repairs and reduced performance. If you notice any of the following issues, it’s time to bring your coupe to

Engine Misfires or Rough Idle – A shaky idle, hesitation during acceleration, or flashing check engine light could indicate ignition coil, spark plug, or fuel injection issues.
Excessive Oil Consumption – Some FA20 engines consume more oil than expected; low oil levels can damage engine bearings.
Clutch Slipping or Difficulty Shifting – A spongy clutch pedal, grinding gears, or RPM spikes without acceleration may signal clutch wear.
Brake Fade or Squealing – Reduced stopping power or high-pitched noises from your brakes could mean worn pads, warped rotors, or contaminated brake fluid.
Suspension Clunks or Poor Handling – Unusual noises over bumps or sloppy cornering may point to worn bushings, ball joints, or shocks.
Cooling System Overheating – Rising temperature gauge readings or coolant leaks can cause major engine damage if ignored.
Vibrations at Highway Speeds – Could be caused by unbalanced wheels, worn tires, or alignment issues affecting both comfort and handling.
Illuminated Warning Lights – ABS, traction control, or check engine lights require immediate attention to prevent safety or performance problems.

Pro Tip: If you drive your Toyota 86 aggressively or take it to the track, have it inspected more frequently than the standard service intervals. High-performance driving puts extra stress on brakes, tires, and engine components.

Recommended Maintenance for Toyota 86 & GR86

Service	Interval	Notes
Oil Change	5,000 mi / 6 mo (3,000 mi for track )	Use synthetic 0W-20
Brake Fluid Flush	Every 2 years	DOT 4 recommended for spirited driving
Spark Plugs	60,000 mi	Iridium plugs
Differential Fluid	30,000 mi	Shorter for track use
Transmission Fluid	60,000 mi	Manual & automatic
Coolant Flush	5 years / 60,000 mi	Prevents overheating

Book Your Toyota 86 Repair in Raleigh

If your Toyota Corolla is showing signs of trouble—or if you just want to stay ahead of expensive repairs—don’t wait. Our team at Creech Import Repair will give your car the care it deserves, with no gimmicks, no high-pressure pitches, and no unnecessary services.

📍 Visit Us: Creech Import Repair – Raleigh, NC
📞 Call: (919) [872-1999]
🌐 Book Online: Schedule an Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions – Toyota 86

Yes — we handle all model years, including Scion FR-S, Toyota 86, and GR86.

Absolutely — we ensure proper fitment, alignment, and safety for all performance upgrades.

Shorten oil change intervals, upgrade brake fluid, check tire wear often, and schedule regular inspections.

Not typically — it’s affordable compared to many sports cars, but track driving will increase service frequency.

While we can perform recall repairs, we recommend checking with your Toyota dealer for free recall service.

Contact us today

For an estimate with the most trusted auto repair shop in Wake County, Creech Import Repair!

Shop Location

1818 St. Albans Dr #106
Raleigh, NC 27609

Monday - Friday

7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Call us 919-872-1999

Our Commitment to You

At Creech Import Repair, our philosophy is simple: Treat customers with kindness, respect, and honesty, and success will follow. Contact us for any and all of your automotive repair needs.

Please Note

Online bookings are not considered confirmed appointments until verified by a member of our Service Team.
We take your privacy very seriously. Learn more about how we protect your information by reading our Privacy Policy.

Schedule An Appointment

Toyota 86 Repair in Raleigh, NC

Performance-Focused Maintenance & Repairs for Toyota’s Modern Sports Coupe

Why Raleigh Drivers Trust Creech Import Repair for Toyota 86 Service