What is the common problem with BRZ?
The Subaru BRZ, a popular sports car co-developed with Toyota, is known for its engaging driving dynamics and affordable price tag. However, one common problem that owners often face with the BRZ is its lack of power and performance compared to other sports cars in its class.
Underpowered Engine
The primary issue with the BRZ is its relatively underpowered engine. The car is equipped with a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-four boxer engine that produces only 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This may sound decent on paper, but in practice, the BRZ can feel sluggish, especially when accelerating from a stop or passing at higher speeds.
The lack of power is often cited as the BRZ's Achilles' heel, as it can make the car feel underpowered compared to its competitors, such as the Mazda MX-5 Miata or the Ford Mustang. This can be a significant drawback for drivers who are looking for a more thrilling and responsive sports car experience.
Potential Solutions
While the BRZ's underpowered engine is a well-known issue, there are a few potential solutions that owners can consider:
- Aftermarket Modifications: Many BRZ owners opt to upgrade their cars with aftermarket parts, such as turbochargers or superchargers, to increase the engine's power output.
- Driving Technique: Some owners have found that by mastering the car's handling and driving dynamics, they can compensate for the lack of power and still enjoy the BRZ's engaging driving experience.
- Waiting for a Redesign: Subaru and Toyota are expected to release a redesigned version of the BRZ/86 in the near future, which may address the power issue and provide a more competitive sports car experience.li>
Ultimately, the BRZ's underpowered engine is a well-known issue that owners must consider when deciding whether this sports car is the right choice for them. While there are potential solutions, the lack of power may be a dealbreaker for some enthusiasts who prioritize raw performance over the BRZ's other strengths.
Is the Subaru BRZ a reliable car?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 18% for the Subaru BRZ, compared to an average of 11% for subcompact cars and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
What is the biggest problem with Subaru engines?
One of the most notorious issues plaguing Subaru vehicles is head gasket leaks, particularly in older models with the EJ series engines. These leaks can lead to coolant loss, overheating, and potential engine damage if left untreated.
Is BRZ an everyday car?
This car makes mundane errands fun. The BRZ delivers attainable power without getting over your head.
What is the BRZ known for?
Iconic Rear-Wheel-Drive Sports Car Layout
The 2025 BRZ features an iconic sports car layout — two door, front engine, rear-wheel drive — and all the modern technology developed over decades of Subaru motorsport engineering.
How long will a BRZ engine last?
The community responded by sharing that BRZs can last for over 200,000 miles if maintained properly. Moreover, many users reported that their BRZs had reached high mileage without significant issues. Some users mentioned their daily-driven BRZs with 115,000 and 130,000 miles, respectively.
What problems does BRZ have?
There are known issues with poor gear changing on the BRZ gearboxes. If you are finding it difficult to engage any of the gears, you are not alone. This seems to be more of an issue on cold mornings and when changing from first to second gear and from third to second.
What years did Subaru have transmission problems?
Subaru owners have complained about problems with the Lineartronic CVT transmissions and Subaru extended the warranty for cars from model years 2010 to 2018. Usage: 2010–current Subaru Legacy / Outback / Exiga / Impreza / Levorg / Forester / XV and 2015 Subaru WRX Premium and Limited Editions.
How long does a BRZ clutch last?
50,000 miles
When properly maintained, a Subaru clutch should last at least 50,000 miles.
Which year should I avoid BRZ?
2013
Avoid: 2013 Subaru BRZ
As the first year of the BRZ in the U.S., it's not unusual for initial “teething” issues to arise, and the 2013 BRZ has more reported complaints than any other model year. Owners have commonly reported problems with the transmission, especially with noisy operations.
Why do BRZ engines fail?
Early on, forum critics suspected the popped engines were the result of oil starvation at the oil pickup, caused by a material known as RTV (room-temperature vulcanizing silicone). RTV is used in manufacturing to seal many components in the engine, like the oil pan, timing cover, heads, and valve covers.
