Is the 2016 BRZ reliable?
The 2016 Subaru BRZ is generally reliable for a small rear‑wheel‑drive sports car, with solid mechanicals and good long‑term durability when well maintained. Like most aging performance cars, reliability is shaped by maintenance history and how hard the car was driven.
Reliability at a glance
Independent reviews and owner reports commonly describe the 2016 BRZ as dependable within its class, with straightforward mechanicals and a drivetrain designed for longevity. The main caveats relate to age-related wear and the importance of ongoing maintenance for a high‑revving, performance‑focused engine.
What owners and reviewers commonly cite as reliability signals for this model year includes the following points:
- Engine and powertrain: The 2.0-liter flat‑four is simple and robust, but some engines show elevated oil consumption as mileage increases. Regular oil changes with quality synthetic oil are crucial for long‑term durability.
- Drivetrain and transmissions: The manual transmission is generally durable, though aggressive driving can accelerate clutch wear; automatics are reliable but may feel less engaging for enthusiasts.
- Electrical and electronics: Infotainment and electrical systems are typically reliable, though older screens and controls can show wear or slow responses as the car ages.
- Recalls and safety: The model has undergone recalls common to vehicles of its era (including airbag inflator recalls); ensure all safety recalls are addressed by verifying the VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA databases.
Conclusion: With a clean maintenance history and proper care, the 2016 BRZ remains a dependable choice among affordable sport coupes.
What tends to fail or require maintenance as these cars age
As cars reach mid‑life for a performance model like the BRZ, a set of age‑related issues can appear. The following are the areas most commonly noted by owners and technicians when evaluating reliability in the 2016 model year and its peers.
- Oil consumption and leaks: Some high‑mileage engines show increased oil use or small leaks around seals; monitoring oil levels and addressing leaks early helps prevent more serious problems.
- Clutch and manual transmission wear: Clutch life varies with driving style; expect replacement if the car has seen spirited driving or heavy traffic; a well‑maintained clutch can last well over 60k–100k miles.
- Suspension and steering components: Bushings, ball joints, and tie‑rod ends can wear with age, leading to reduced handling precision or noise; proactive inspection is advised.
- Braking components: Pads and rotors wear normally, but performance models with spirited use may see faster brake wear; ensure rotors aren’t warped and pads have adequate life remaining.
- Electrical/infotainment aging: The infotainment system or related sensors can become flaky with time; software updates and component replacements are common fixes on older cars.
Conclusion: When shopping for a used 2016 BRZ, prioritize a vehicle with complete maintenance records, verified oil changes, and evidence of clean clutch and suspension wear. A thorough inspection can catch issues that affect long‑term reliability.
How to evaluate a 2016 BRZ before buying
For buyers focused on reliability, use this checklist to assess a potential BRZ purchase and avoid costly surprises later:
- Maintenance history: Look for regular maintenance records, especially oil changes with synthetic oil, timing chain service (if noted), and any recalls completed.
- Mechanical inspection: Have a qualified mechanic inspect for oil leaks, engine noise, clutch wear (if manual), and suspension or steering wear; listen for abnormal exhaust or drivetrain sounds during a test drive.
- Recalls and safety: Confirm all open recalls are resolved and verify recall status using the VIN from official databases.
- Test drive notes: Assess throttle response, smooth shifting, hesitation or misfires, and overall ride quality; unusual vibrations or clunks can signal wear.
- Ownership history: Check for consistent ownership, mileage documentation, and a clean title; excessive short‑trip driving can affect drivetrain longevity.
Conclusion: A well‑documented 2016 BRZ with a clean mechanical history and recent maintenance is more likely to deliver reliable ownership and genuine driving enjoyment.
Summary
Overall, the 2016 BRZ stands as a reliable option within its niche: a simple, durable drivetrain, good structural integrity, and a rewarding driving experience when properly maintained. Its reliability depends largely on maintenance discipline, how the car was driven, and the thoroughness of pre‑purchase inspections. For buyers, a careful check of oil history, clutch condition (if manual), suspension wear, and completed recalls will help ensure you’re buying a genuinely dependable classic among entry‑level sports cars.
