Is the Subaru BRZ a reliable car?
The Subaru BRZ is generally regarded as a reliable sports coupe with solid long‑term durability, especially when properly maintained. While nothing in this class is flawless, owner experiences and professional reviews typically point to strong drivetrain reliability and reasonable maintenance costs compared with peers.
The question of reliability depends on model year, maintenance history, and how the car is driven. This article analyzes what reliability means for the BRZ, how each generation has performed, common issues, and practical tips for keeping the car dependable.
What reliability means for the BRZ
Reliability for a performance two‑door like the BRZ is measured by engine and transmission durability, braking and steering systems, electronics, and the frequency of unexpected repairs. It also reflects how well recall campaigns and service advisories are handled by owners and dealers.
Generational overview
First generation (2013–2020)
The initial BRZ shared the Subaru FA20 engine with its Toyota 86 cousin. Reliability is broadly solid, but some early units experienced higher-than-normal oil consumption, which led to maintenance reminders and, in a few cases, dealer interventions. Clutch wear and occasional drivetrain noises are common in enthusiast‑driven sports cars and not seen as systemic failures. The model also participated in routine recalls, as is typical for Subaru/Toyota products, addressing airbags and safety systems.
Here are the main reliability notes reported by owners and reviewers for the first‑generation BRZ:
- Occasional oil consumption in certain early FA20 models, prompting monitoring and service actions.
- Clutch wear and occasional manual‑transmission synchro issues, usually within expected ranges for a performance coupe.
- Participation in recalls and service campaigns typical of contemporary vehicles.
- Overall drivetrain durability with no widespread catastrophic failures documented.
In short, first‑generation BRZ reliability is solid for its class, with caveats tied to maintenance history and driving style.
Second generation (2022–present)
The second generation introduces a larger 2.4‑liter FA24 engine and refined chassis dynamics. Reliability has remained strong overall, with improvements in refinement and efficiency. The newer engine uses a combination of direct and port injection to address carbon buildup concerns common to modern direct‑injected engines, and Subaru/Toyota continue to issue software updates and recalls as needed.
Key reliability notes for the second‑generation BRZ:
- New 2.4L FA24 engine with improved durability and smoother power delivery.
- Dual injection (direct plus port) to mitigate carbon buildup on intake valves.
- Manual transmissions remain robust, with normal wear patterns; automatics are less common but generally reliable when paired with the same platform.
- Ongoing recalls and service campaigns are part of routine maintenance for all modern vehicles; check for open recalls on a given VIN.
Overall, second‑generation BRZ reliability sits above average for its segment, with owners reporting fewer major reliability issues than some earlier sports cars in its category.
Reliability ratings and ownership costs
Independent reviews and consumer surveys typically rate the BRZ as above average for reliability within the compact sports‑car segment. Ownership costs—covering maintenance, insurance, and depreciation—tend to be moderate for a performance model, with variability driven by trim, usage (daily driving vs. track days), and regional service pricing.
- Pros often highlighted: solid drivetrain reliability, predictable handling, and reasonable maintenance costs for a performance coupe.
- Cons often highlighted: insurance premiums can be higher for performance cars, and some older models may require more attention to oil consumption or clutch wear depending on maintenance history and mileage.
Owners can keep costs predictable by sticking to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, using reputable shops for any performance‑tocused work, and tracking recalls and software updates.
Maintenance and ownership tips
To maximize reliability and minimize surprises, follow these practical tips that apply across BRZ generations. Note: the FA24 engine in the second generation uses a timing chain, not a timing belt, which reduces belt‑change maintenance.
- Adhere to Subaru's recommended maintenance schedule, with more frequent checks if the car is driven hard or on track days.
- Use the recommended synthetic oil grade and monitor oil level, especially on early FA20 models that displayed higher consumption in some cases.
- Keep up with brake fluid changes, coolant flushes, and tire condition; aggressive driving on worn tires can accelerate wear and affect reliability.
- Regularly inspect the clutch and transmission linkage for manual cars; address unusual grinding or difficulty shifting early.
- Check for and perform any recalls on the vehicle’s VIN; ensure software updates are applied.
- Consider a pre‑purchase inspection when buying used, focusing on oil leaks, valve train health, and transmission condition.
Bottom line: a disciplined maintenance program and timely attention to recalls help preserve reliability across the BRZ lineup.
Bottom line verdict
For buyers seeking a rear‑drive, tuner‑friendly sports coupe, the Subaru BRZ generally delivers reliable performance with reasonable maintenance costs. The second generation improves refinement and durability over the first, while known caveats—such as oil consumption in older FA20 models and clutch wear on higher‑mileage manuals—remain manageable with proactive care.
Summary
The Subaru BRZ stands out in its class for reliability when properly maintained. Its newer 2.4L engine offers improved durability and clever injection technology to curb carbon buildup. By keeping up with routine maintenance, staying current on recalls, and choosing a model year aligned with your driving needs, the BRZ can be a dependable, enjoyable sports car with a solid ownership experience.
