What are the biggest issues with the BRZ?
Across model years, the BRZ’s biggest issues fall into three broad buckets: oil-consumption and reliability questions on the early FA20 engines, a powertrain that often prioritizes revs over low-end torque and everyday usability, and interior/tech shortcomings that limit practicality and modern convenience. The 2022-and-later FA24-powered BRZ/GR86 models address some of these concerns, but differences between generations remain important for buyers and owners to understand.
Powertrain and performance concerns
Overview of the main powertrain trade-offs and what owners tend to notice day-to-day.
- Oil consumption and reliability on the older FA20 engines (early 2012–2016 BRZ/FR-S twins), which led to service campaigns and warranty considerations for some owners.
- Low-end torque and daily drivability: the 2.0-liter FA20 is known for a rev-happy character, requiring higher revs for meaningful acceleration, which can feel unresponsive in stop-and-go traffic.
- 2.4-liter FA24 evolution: the newer engine improves torque (more usable grunt around mid-range) but remains a high-rev, track-oriented engine by design, so some drivers still wish for more low-to-midrange pull.
- Transmission feel: the manual transmission is praised for engagement but can feel “notchy” or stiff when cold or during aggressive shifting; automatic options tend to be less engaging than the manual, with slower downshifts and detent feel.
In short, powertrain issues largely come down to comparing the older FA20’s reliability questions and torque deficit with the newer FA24’s improved torque and refinement, along with how the chosen transmission shapes daily usability.
Interior, practicality, and daily usability
How the cabin and packaging affect everyday use, comfort, and usefulness for real-life scenarios.
- Interior materials and build quality: some owners note that the BRZ’s cabin uses harder plastics and a more spartan trim than rivals in the price range, which can feel underwhelming for a modern sports car.
- Rear seat and cargo practicality: two small rear seats and a relatively tiny trunk limit practicality for passengers or luggage, making it less versatile as a daily driver or small family car.
- Ergonomics and daily comfort: the driver-focused cockpit, low seating position, and limited outward visibility can be appealing on a track but tiresome for longer commutes or daily errands.
For buyers, the interior and practicality weaknesses are a trade-off for the driving focus and weight distribution that make the BRZ enjoyable on a back road, even as it compromises everyday usability.
Technology, infotainment, and safety features
What to expect from the onboard tech and how it stacks up against newer compact sports coupes.
- Infotainment and interface: several model years use older or less intuitive systems with touchscreen response that can feel slow, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support has varied by year and trim level.
- Connectivity and apps: some owners experience occasional delays or resets in the system, with fewer wireless features than rivals in the same price bracket.
- Driver-assistance features: available safety tech is more limited than in many contemporary rivals, and some trims offer only basic or optional assistive systems, depending on market and model year.
Tech and safety shortcomings tend to reflect the car’s sports-first mission rather than a failure of modern standards; newer FA24 models improve connectivity and overall refinement, but buyers should verify feature lists for their specific year and trim.
Model-year differences and reliability outlook
How the two generations compare and what that means for long-term ownership and resale value.
- FA20 era (earlier models): oil consumption concerns were a recurring theme for some engines, influencing maintenance needs and warranty considerations.
- FA24 era (2022–present): improved torque, smoother power delivery, and updated chassis tuning; generally better refinement and reliability outlook, though some owners still report stiffness or calibration quirks in some trims.
- Drive dynamics and tuning differences: manuals and automatics may feel notably different across generations, with the newer engine paired to updates that aim to enhance daily drivability without sacrificing the engaging, rear-drive feel.
Model-year differences matter: the FA24 BRZ/GR86 generally offers improved everyday usability and refinement compared with the FA20-based cars, but prospective buyers and owners should consider their preferred balance of engagement versus practicality, as well as the specific maintenance history of their car.
What to watch for if you're buying used
Key checkpoints to assess when evaluating a used BRZ, particularly across generations.
- Oil consumption history and engine health: inquire about oil top-ups, consumption between changes, and any related service campaigns or recalls on the FA20 era.
- Maintenance and service records: verify timing components, seals, and major service milestones, plus whether any recalls or campaigns have been completed.
- Clutch, gearbox, and drivetrain wear: especially for manual cars, assess clutch feel, bite point consistency, and any grinding or difficulty shifting that could indicate wear.
- Recalls and campaigns: check VIN against recall databases to confirm that all manufacturer campaigns have been completed.
For used-car shoppers, the key is to balance the car’s youth with its service history, ensuring that a track-tested sports coupe remains reliable for daily use.
Summary
The BRZ remains a purist’s sports coupe with standout handling and driver engagement, but it comes with notable caveats. Older FA20 models carried oil-consumption and reliability concerns that can impact ownership costs, while the engine’s lack of low-end torque and the car’s tight interior limit daily practicality. The 2022 facelift using the FA24 engine improves torque, refinement, and overall usability, yet model-year differences persist, and tech features can lag behind newer rivals. Prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough service history, test-drive both generations to gauge transmission feel, and weigh whether the sport-centric packaging matches their daily needs. Overall, the BRZ is best suited for enthusiasts who value steering feedback and balance over outright practicality.
Does the BRZ have any problems?
Oil Starvation Issues
Problem: The GT86/BRZ can suffer from oil starvation during hard cornering or on uneven roads. This is due to the design of the stock oil pick-up and sump, which can struggle to maintain consistent oil pressure, especially in aggressive driving situations.
How long do BRZ engines last?
A Subaru BRZ engine can last for 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance, such as regular oil changes, high-quality lubricants, and following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule. While some owners have reported engines lasting even longer, even up to 500,000 miles, diligent upkeep is the most critical factor for extending its lifespan.
Factors influencing engine longevity
- Maintenance schedule: Following the recommended service intervals for oil changes, fluid checks, and other tune-ups is crucial for durability.
- Oil and lubricants: Using high-quality engine oils, especially full synthetic, can significantly enhance the engine's lifespan.
- Driving habits: The way you drive can impact longevity. Aggressive driving can put more stress on the engine over time, while more moderate driving can help it last longer.
- Repairs: Addressing issues like the valve spring recall (which affects some earlier models) and other potential problems promptly can prevent further damage. Some owners report their original engines going strong past 200,000 miles with only minor repairs like a clutch replacement.
- Transmission: Some reports suggest that the CVT transmission may require more maintenance and could potentially be a weaker link compared to the engine itself.
Is BRZ high maintenance?
This proactive maintenance plan helps avoid costly repairs and keeps the BRZ performing optimally for years. Over 10 years, routine and unscheduled maintenance costs average out to $6,848, which is notably lower than many sports car competitors.
What BRZ years to avoid?
The Subaru BRZ years to avoid are 2013 and early 2014 due to significant engine issues like valve spring recall problems and potential oil consumption. While there were other recalls and issues in later years (such as a 2018 fuel pump recall), the 2013-early 2014 models are the ones most commonly cited as years to be particularly wary of.
This video discusses the major problems in early models of BRZ/FRS/86: 58sShifting LanesYouTube · Apr 25, 2018
Years to generally avoid
- 2013 and early 2014: These model years had recalls and reports of significant problems, including:
- Valve spring recall: An issue where valve springs could fracture, leading to engine failure.
- Oil issues: Some models, particularly those produced before a certain date, had a tendency for oiling problems.
- Engine tuning and ECU calibration: Early models had a less optimal engine calibration.
- Other issues: Users report issues with power windows freezing, water leaks, and interior rattles.
Other years to be cautious of
- 2018: This year had a fuel pump recall and a recall for the rearview camera not displaying properly.
- 2019: Some 2019 models were included in the 2018 fuel pump recall.
What to do if buying a used BRZ
- Check for recalls: Before purchasing, use the VIN to check if any recalls have been performed.
- Be prepared for oil consumption: The BRZ can burn oil, so check the oil level regularly regardless of the model year.
- Consider newer models: Later model years, such as the 2017 and later, generally have fewer reported issues.
