Maintaining your GT86 is crucial for ensuring its longevity and maximizing its renowned driving experience. While modern vehicles like the GT86 often forgo printed manuals, readily available online resources and dedicated communities provide a wealth of information for owners. This guide, drawing from expert community insights, outlines the essential maintenance aspects of your GT86, focusing on fluids, fuel recommendations, and brake upgrades, particularly for enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance.
Engine Oil: Maintaining Optimal Engine Health in Your GT86
For everyday maintenance, adhering to the manufacturer’s recommendations for engine oil is paramount. Toyota specifies OE oil specifications which are readily accessible online. Furthermore, forums like ft86club.com serve as invaluable resources, hosting extensive discussions and DIY guides tailored to GT86 maintenance.
For standard use, Toyota Genuine Motor Oil is recommended, with SAE 0W-20 being the preferred grade for optimal fuel efficiency and engine protection. SAE 5W-30 is also permissible but should be replaced with 0W-20 at the next service interval. Ensure the oil meets API grade SL “Energy-Conserving”, SM “Energy-Conserving”, SN “Resource-Conserving” or ILSAC multigrade engine oil standards as outlined in your GT86 manual. The engine oil capacity is approximately 5.4 liters (5.7 US quarts) with a filter change.
However, for GT86 owners who engage in track days or live in warmer climates, consider using a higher viscosity oil such as 5W-30. This can help maintain better oil pressure under high loads and temperatures experienced during performance driving. For track enthusiasts, more frequent oil changes are advisable, and exploring oil cooling solutions, like sandwich plates or air-to-oil coolers, can be beneficial. For those pushing the GT86 to its limits on track with high-grip tires and aerodynamic enhancements, addressing potential oil starvation issues in high-speed corners may require sump modifications.
Gearbox and Differential Oil: Ensuring Smooth Drivetrain Operation
Maintaining the correct gearbox and differential oil is essential for smooth gear changes and optimal performance of your GT86’s drivetrain. The recommended gearbox oil capacity is 2.2 liters of API GL-3 SAE 75W-90, with Toyota Genuine MG Gear Oil special II being the OEM option. While GL-3 is an older standard, modern GL-4 oils are generally considered suitable and often offer improved performance.
For the limited-slip differential (LSD), the capacity is 1.15 liters of API GL-5 SAE 75W-85 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90, with Toyota Genuine Differential Gear Oil LT being the OEM recommendation. A universal oil like Motul Gear 300, which meets both GL-4 and GL-5 standards, can be used for both the gearbox and differential.
Anecdotal evidence from GT86 owners suggests that using Redline MTL GL4 70W80 in the gearbox can improve gear engagement, particularly when cold. Additionally, aftermarket transmission braces from brands like Perrin or Cusco can further enhance shifting feel.
Fuel Recommendations: Optimizing Performance and Efficiency
While the GT86 is designed to run safely on 95 RON fuel, using higher octane 98 RON fuel is recommended for optimal performance and fuel economy. Lower octane fuel may result in reduced power output and efficiency.
For performance enthusiasts seeking even greater power gains, particularly on track, exploring E85 ethanol fuel is an option. This requires an E85 tune or a flex-fuel kit and tune to properly manage the fuel system and engine parameters for E85 compatibility.
Brake Fluid and Pads: Upgrading for Track Performance and Safety
The GT86 manual specifies FMVSS No.116 fresh DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. However, for track use, the stock brake fluid and pads are prone to overheating. Upgrading both is strongly recommended before engaging in any track driving.
Higher boiling point brake fluids, such as Motul RBF660, offer improved resistance to brake fade under demanding conditions. A complete brake fluid flush may require approximately two bottles, while topping off may only need one. For brake pads, performance-oriented options like Ferrodo DS2500 are excellent hybrid choices suitable for both daily driving and occasional track days.
For dedicated track use and drivers utilizing stickier tires, dedicated track pads are advisable. However, be aware that track pads may produce squealing noises during daily driving when not sufficiently heated. For the ultimate performance, consider switching between dedicated daily driving and track pad sets.
Regarding brake bias, it is generally not recommended to deviate significantly from the OEM brake bias settings. The GT86’s braking system is meticulously engineered, and altering the bias incorrectly can negatively impact braking performance and safety, potentially leading to premature lock-up, increased braking distances, and instability, especially during heavy braking or when electronic stability control systems are engaged. When considering brake upgrades, prioritize reputable vendors that maintain brake bias close to OEM specifications, particularly if opting for a big brake kit (BBK) that only upgrades the front brakes while retaining the rear OEM setup. While adjusting brake bias can be beneficial in specific scenarios, such as staggered tire setups or significant aerodynamic imbalances, it requires a thorough understanding of vehicle dynamics and braking systems. For most GT86 owners, especially those starting out in performance driving, focusing on high-quality brake fluid and performance pads within the OEM brake system architecture will provide significant improvements for track days without compromising daily driving safety and balance.
