Davis Bellew If you are a car enthusiast who owns a Scion FR-S, you may have wondered if it is possible to take it to a Subaru dealer for maintenance or upgrades. After all, the FR-S and the Subaru BRZ share the same platform and many components. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of taking your FR-S to a Subaru dealer, as well as the compatibility of parts between the two models.
The history of Scion and Subaru
Scion was a brand launched by Toyota in 2003 to appeal to younger buyers. The FR-S, which stands for front engine, rear-wheel-drive sport, was introduced in 2012 and quickly became popular among car enthusiasts due to its balanced handling and affordability. However, Toyota announced in 2016 that it would discontinue the Scion brand and fold its models into the Toyota lineup.
Subaru, on the other hand, is a Japanese car manufacturer known for its all-wheel-drive technology and rally heritage. The Subaru BRZ, which shares the same characteristics as the FR-S, was introduced in 2012 as well. Subaru has a loyal fanbase of car enthusiasts who appreciate the brand’s performance and reliability.
The similarities and differences between FR-S and Subaru BRZ
The FR-S and the Subaru BRZ look almost identical from the outside, but there are some significant differences under the hood. The FR-S has a Toyota engine, while the BRZ has a Subaru engine. The suspension tuning is also different between the two models, with the BRZ having a more track-focused setup.
However, many of the components are interchangeable between the FR-S and the BRZ. For example, the brakes, strut tower braces, and sway bars are the same on both models. This means that you can upgrade your FR-S with Subaru parts without any compatibility issues.
The compatibility of parts between the two models
Taking your FR-S to a Subaru dealer for maintenance or upgrades has some advantages when it comes to parts availability. Since the FR-S and the BRZ share many components, the Subaru dealer will have access to a wide range of parts that are compatible with your car. This can make repairs and upgrades more convenient and cost-effective.
However, it’s worth noting that some parts are not interchangeable between the two models. For example, the exhaust system on the FR-S is different from the BRZ due to the engine differences. This means that you should consult with a Subaru mechanic before ordering any parts for your FR-S to avoid compatibility issues.
The advantages and disadvantages of taking a FR-S to a Subaru dealer
One advantage of taking your FR-S to a Subaru dealer is that the mechanics are likely more familiar with the car than a general mechanic. Since the FR-S and the BRZ share many components, a Subaru mechanic will likely have experience working on your car.
In addition, a Subaru dealer may have access to more specialized tools and equipment that are needed for maintenance and repairs.
However, there are also some disadvantages to taking your FR-S to a Subaru dealer. For example, the dealer may not be able to provide warranty coverage for your car since it is not a Subaru-branded vehicle. In addition, the dealer may not be able to access Scion-specific parts or software, which can affect the quality of repairs.
Recommendations for car owners
If you decide to take your FR-S to a Subaru dealer, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the dealer is experienced with working on the FR-S and has access to Scion-specific parts or software if needed. Second, consult with the dealer before ordering any parts to make sure that they are compatible with your car.
It’s also worth exploring other options, such as independent mechanics or specialty shops, to compare prices and services. Ultimately, the decision to take your FR-S to a Subaru dealer depends on your personal preferences and needs.
FAQ
Can I upgrade my FR-S with Subaru parts?
Yes, many of the components on the FR-S and the Subaru BRZ are interchangeable, which means that you can upgrade your FR-S with Subaru parts without any compatibility issues.
Will a Subaru dealer be able to provide warranty coverage for my FR-S?
It’s unlikely that a Subaru dealer will provide warranty coverage for your FR-S since it is not a Subaru-branded vehicle.
Are there any disadvantages to taking my FR-S to a Subaru dealer?
Yes, the dealer may not have access to Scion-specific parts or software, which can affect the quality of repairs. In addition, they may not be able to provide warranty coverage for your car.
