Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2013 Scion FR-S
Our scoring places the 2013 Scion FR-S at 7.3/10 overall, which translates to a Good rating for this sports. Its strongest dimension is Performance at 7.8/10, while Technology at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional sports — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We score reliability at 7.5/10 — better than most direct rivals, if short of the segment's best. The safety score of 7.0/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance scores 7.8/10 — competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. Technology scores 6.6/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $17,956–$23,678, 16 MPG, seating 4, the Scion FR-S sits in the budget-friendly tier of the sports market. The 7.5/10 value score says the pricing is fair rather than generous; cross-shop the segment before signing anything. At 13 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Our take: The 2013 Scion FR-S is a passable sports but not a standout one. Weaknesses in technology hold it back from being a strong recommendation. It may suit buyers with specific needs it serves well, but we'd encourage comparing at least two or three higher-scored alternatives before deciding.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sportss
The 2013 Scion FR-S ranks #251 of 316 sportss in the Carivo database — better than 21% of the segment. Its 7.3/10 overall score is 0.4 points below the segment average of 7.7/10. Its $17,956 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $46,090 by about 61%.
$0 — 4 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which FR-S Year Should You Buy?
Across the FR-S model years we've scored, the 2013 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Accessible entry price makes it one of the more affordable options in the category
✗ Where it falls short
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 16 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
NHTSA Recalls — 2013 Scion FR-S (4 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Engine and engine cooling / Engine 01/11/2018 · 18V772000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Subaru Impreza, 2012-2013 Impreza Stationwagon, 2013 Subaru BRZ, XV Crosstrek and Toyota Scion FR-S vehicles. The engine valve springs in these vehicles may fracture causing an engine…
Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2013-2016 Toyota Scion FR-S vehicles manufactured March 13, 2012, to January 14, 2016 and equipped an automatic transmission and ignition key. Vehicles with a push-to-start button are not…
Equipment / Other / Owners/service/other manual 05/06/2012 · 12V255000
TOYOTA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2013 SCION FR-S VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 22, 2012, THROUGH MAY 14, 2012. THE OWNERS MANUAL CONTAINS AN INACCURATE DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTUAL OPERATION OF THE FRONT PASSENGER OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM.…
Equipment / Other / Labels 09/04/2013 · 13V123000
Southeast Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 and 2010-2013 Toyota Tundra, 2010-2012 Rav4, 2012 Toyota Sequoia, 2010-2011 Toyota Corolla, 2010-2011 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota…
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Own a 2013 Scion FR-S that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2013 Scion FR-S
Is the 2013 Scion FR-S reliable?
We rate the 2013 Scion FR-S's reliability 7.5/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class. It has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2013 Scion FR-S have?
4 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2013 Scion FR-S worth buying?
It scores 7.3/10 overall, ranking #251 of 316 sportss in our database (better than 21% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2013 Scion FR-S cost?
The 2013 Scion FR-S starts at $17,956 and ranges up to $23,678 across trims (MSRP when new). At 16 MPG, expect roughly $3,281/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which FR-S years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 4 FR-S model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.5/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
What problems does the 2013 Scion FR-S have?
The documented issues for the 2013 Scion FR-S are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Equipment (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Scion FR-S
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More Scion Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Scion models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
Representative photo — may show another model year