2013-2015 Scion FR-S Decklid: Fixing Lock Problems, Spoiler Swaps, and Water Leaks
This guide covers common trunk lock issues, spoiler compatibility, and how to choose the right used decklid for your 2013-2015 Scion FR-S.
- If your trunk won't open electronically, check the valet lockout button inside the trunk before replacing parts.
- Decklid compatibility depends on spoiler and camera holes. Lids from 2013-2020 FR-S, BRZ, and 86 are physically interchangeable, but hole patterns and wiring may differ.
- When buying used, check for hidden body filler with a magnet and inspect for rust on the inner seams.
- Water leaks in the trunk are more commonly caused by bad taillight seals than the main trunk weatherstrip.
Symptoms of a Failing Decklid or Components
While the metal decklid panel itself rarely fails without being physically damaged, its associated components can wear out or cause problems. Here are the most common issues you might encounter.
Trunk Will Not Open With Remote or Interior Button
This is the most common issue reported by FR-S owners. You press the trunk release on your key fob or the button on the dashboard, and nothing happens. You can typically still open the trunk using the physical key in the lock cylinder above the license plate. In the vast majority of cases, this is not a broken part.
Pro Tip: Before assuming the lock actuator or wiring is bad, check the trunk lockout button. Inside the trunk, on the driver's side wall, there is a small black button. This is a valet or security feature that disables the electronic releases. Many owners accidentally press this button while loading or unloading cargo, causing the remote and dash releases to stop working. Pressing this button again will likely solve the problem.
Water Leaking Into the Trunk
Finding water in your spare tire well is a common complaint. This is usually caused by a failed seal. The most frequent culprit is not the main trunk weatherstripping, but rather the seals on the taillight assemblies. Over time, these gaskets can compress and degrade, allowing water to seep past the taillights and into the trunk. A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB #S-SB-0041-13) was issued for cracking on the rear combination light lenses, which could also be a potential entry point for water. While less common, the main weatherstrip around the trunk opening can also dry out, crack, or get damaged, compromising the seal.
Trunk Lid Won't Stay Open
The Scion FR-S uses a pair of metal torsion bars, not gas-charged struts, to hold the trunk open. These bars act like springs to counteract the weight of the lid. Over many years and cycles, these bars can lose some of their tension. If your trunk lid sags or won't stay fully open, the torsion bars are likely weak and may need replacement. This is more common on vehicles with a factory spoiler, which adds extra weight for the bars to support.
Physical Damage
Dents, dings, deep scratches, and rust are the most obvious forms of decklid failure. Rust commonly forms around license plate mounting holes, emblem holes, or any area where the paint has been compromised. Previous accident repairs involving low-quality body filler (Bondo) can also crack or bubble over time.
Buying a Used Decklid for a 2013-2015 Scion FR-S
Purchasing a used OEM decklid is often the most cost-effective solution for a damaged panel, as it can be found in the correct factory color, potentially saving you hundreds on paintwork. However, careful inspection is critical to ensure compatibility and quality.
The #1 Rule: Match Spoiler and Camera Holes
The single most important factor when buying a used decklid is matching it to your car's original spoiler and camera configuration. The FR-S was available with and without a factory spoiler, and some later models or related vehicles (BRZ/86) had backup cameras.
- Spoiler-less to Spoiler: If you are adding a spoiler to a car that didn't have one, you will need to drill holes in your existing trunk or buy a trunk that already has the correct holes. Drilling must be done carefully and the bare metal must be sealed to prevent rust.
- Spoiler to Spoiler-less: If you are removing a spoiler, you will be left with visible mounting holes. You must either have them professionally welded and filled by a body shop or purchase a "smooth" decklid with no holes.
- Camera Mounts: The 2013-2015 FR-S did not typically come with a factory backup camera. However, if you are sourcing a trunk from a newer (2017+) Toyota 86 or a Subaru BRZ, it may have a mounting provision for a camera. Ensure the trunk you buy matches your needs.
Compatibility Warning: Decklids from the 2013-2020 Subaru BRZ and 2017-2020 Toyota 86 are physically interchangeable with the 2013-2015 Scion FR-S. However, wiring for the license plate lights, lock actuator, or a third brake light in a spoiler may differ. Be prepared to swap your original wiring harness onto the replacement decklid.
Physical Inspection Checklist
- Check for Hidden Body Filler: Bring a small magnet. Lightly place it on various areas of the trunk. If it doesn't stick in some spots, it indicates the presence of non-metallic body filler from a previous repair.
- Sight Down the Panel: Look down the length of the decklid from an angle in good light. This will help you spot any subtle waves, ripples, or minor dents that are hard to see straight-on.
- Inspect the Seams: Check the folded edges on the underside of the lid for any signs of rust, which often starts in these hidden areas.
- Verify Mounting Points: Ensure the threaded holes for the hinges and latch are clean and not stripped.
- Check the Paint: Look for signs of a cheap repaint, such as overspray on the weatherstripping, inconsistent orange peel, or a poor color match. Finding a used lid in your car's original factory color can save you a lot of money.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
There have been no recalls issued by the NHTSA specifically for the decklid, latch, or hinges on the 2013-2015 Scion FR-S. While several recalls exist for this vehicle, they pertain to issues like the engine valve springs, ignition key interlock on automatic models, and incorrect owner's manual information.
A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB S-SB-0041-13) addresses potential cracking on the taillight lenses, which can be a source of water leaks into the trunk area. If you have water in your trunk, inspecting the taillights and their seals is a good first step.
Cost Comparison for a 2013-2015 Scion FR-S Decklid
Prices for a replacement decklid can vary significantly based on the source. A used OEM part in the correct color is often the best value.
| Part Source | Estimated Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (Toyota/Subaru) | $400 - $550 | Comes unpainted. Part number SU003-01456 is for a spoiler-less version. |
| Used OEM | $200 - $600+ | Highly variable based on condition, color, and whether a spoiler/camera is included. |
| New Aftermarket (Carbon Fiber) | $700 - $1,300+ | Lightweight options for performance and styling. Often requires professional finishing. |
| Shop Labor (Installation) | $100 - $200 | Typically 1-1.5 hours of labor. |
| Shop Labor (Painting) | $400 - $800 | Cost to paint a new, unpainted lid. Can vary by shop and paint color. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I put a Subaru BRZ or Toyota 86 trunk on my Scion FR-S?
Yes, the trunk lids from all years of the first-generation car (2013-2020 Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ, Toyota 86) are physically the same shape and will bolt on. The main differences will be the mounting holes for different spoiler types and the possibility of a backup camera mount on newer models. You may also need to transfer your original wiring harness.
My trunk won't open with the remote. Is the lock broken?
Probably not. Before spending money on a new lock actuator, open the trunk with your physical key and look for a small black button on the driver's side interior wall of the trunk. This is a security lockout button. Press it and try your remote again. This solves the problem for most owners.
Can I add a factory spoiler to my spoiler-less FR-S?
Yes, but it requires careful work. You can either buy a used decklid that already has the correct spoiler mounting holes, or you can use a template to drill holes in your existing lid. If you drill, it is absolutely essential to properly seal the bare metal around the holes with touch-up paint or a rust inhibitor before installing the spoiler to prevent future rust issues.
Why doesn't my trunk stay open all the way?
The trunk is held open by a pair of torsion bars that act as springs. Over time, especially on cars with the added weight of a spoiler, these bars can weaken. Replacing the torsion bars will restore the trunk's ability to stay open. Note that aftermarket carbon fiber trunks are much lighter, and their manufacturers recommend *not* using the factory torsion bars as they are too strong and can damage the lightweight panel.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: SU003-01456 57509CA0009P 57509CA0209P SU00303947 SU00304234 SU00305907 SU00307367
Material: Steel. Support Mechanism: Torsion Bars.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Scion FR-S:
- Symptoms of a Failing Decklid or Components
- Trunk Will Not Open With Remote or Interior Button
- Water Leaking Into the Trunk
- Trunk Lid Won't Stay Open
- Physical Damage
- Buying a Used Decklid for a 2013-2015 Scion FR-S
- The #1 Rule: Match Spoiler and Camera Holes
- Physical Inspection Checklist
- Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
- Cost Comparison for a 2013-2015 Scion FR-S Decklid
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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