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Subaru · Known Issues

2013-2025 Subaru BRZ Problems: 10 Known Issues

2013-2025 model years · 2,530+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,530+ owner reports, the 2013-2025 Subaru BRZ has 10 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are FA20 Valve Spring Recall - Engine Stalling Risk ($0-$0 repair), FA20 Valve Spring Fracture (Recall WTY-84) - Stall/No-Start ($0-$0 repair), FA24 Oil Starvation on Track - Right-Hand Cornering Pressure Drop ($600-$15,000 repair), Rear Combination Lamp Capacitor Failure - Turn Signal Inoperative (Recall WRM-23) ($0-$0 repair), FA24 Excessive RTV Sealant Clogs Oil Pickup - Engine Failure ($800-$12,000 repair) and Denso Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Impeller Swelling (Recall WRD-20) ($0-$0 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Throwout Bearing Noise and Premature Failure with 950 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $15,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • BRZ Engine6
  • BRZ Electrical1
  • BRZ Fuel System1
  • BRZ Transmission1
  • BRZ Drivetrain1
  • Recalls1
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine6
  • Electrical1
  • Fuel System1
  • Transmission1
  • Drivetrain1
  • Recalls1
  • FAQ

All 10 Known Issues

NHTSA Recalls1 recall

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2022 BRZ and Toyota GR86 vehicles. The rear turn signals may intermittently become inoperative.

Campaign #23V60900031/08/2023

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Subaru BRZ problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,530+ owner reports, the 2013-2025 Subaru BRZ has 10 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: FA20 Valve Spring Recall - Engine Stalling Risk, FA20 Valve Spring Fracture (Recall WTY-84) - Stall/No-Start, FA24 Oil Starvation on Track - Right-Hand Cornering Pressure Drop. Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Subaru BRZ reliable?

The 2013-2025 Subaru BRZ has 10 known issues documented across 2,530+ owner reports. 6 issues are rated critical: FA20 Valve Spring Recall - Engine Stalling Risk and FA20 Valve Spring Fracture (Recall WTY-84) - Stall/No-Start and FA24 Oil Starvation on Track - Right-Hand Cornering Pressure Drop and Rear Combination Lamp Capacitor Failure - Turn Signal Inoperative (Recall WRM-23) and FA24 Excessive RTV Sealant Clogs Oil Pickup - Engine Failure and Denso Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Impeller Swelling (Recall WRD-20). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Subaru BRZ problems?

Repair costs for known Subaru BRZ issues range from $0 to $15,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, FA20 Valve Spring Recall - Engine Stalling Risk, typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Subaru BRZ is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Subaru BRZ. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2013-2025 Subaru BRZ with 10 documented issues documented across 2,530+ owner reports.

What is the 2013-2016 Subaru BRZ FA20 Valve Spring Recall - Engine Stalling Risk?

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 2,530+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

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Community reported
520 owners

The FA20 engine in 2013-2016 BRZs was subject to a safety recall (WQG-66 / NHTSA 18V-845) for defective valve springs that can fracture due to insufficient hardness. A broken valve spring causes a cylinder misfire and can lead to engine stalling. In worst cases, the broken spring allows valve-to-piston contact, causing catastrophic engine damage. Subaru recalls affected VINs for free valve spring replacement. The recall also affects the Toyota 86/Scion FR-S which shares the same engine.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine misfire (single cylinder)
  • Check engine light with misfire code (P0301-P0304)
  • Rough idle or engine shaking
  • Loss of power
  • Engine stalling at idle or low speed
  • Ticking or unusual noise from engine top end

How to Fix

Check recall status by VIN at subaru.com/owners/recalls. Recall WQG-66 (NHTSA 18V-845) covers free replacement of all intake and exhaust valve springs (16 total) at Subaru dealer. If valve-to-piston contact occurred, engine replacement is covered under the recall. Do not delay - a broken valve spring can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

Based on 520 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence520 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

Subaru's FA20 boxer engine in early BRZs has valve springs prone to fracture, causing abnormal engine noise, stalling while driving, and a no-restart condition. NHTSA recall WTY-84 (18V-772) covers 2013 BRZ. Repair requires engine removal (~12 hours labor); some owners reported post-repair rod knock due to RTV misapplication during reassembly.

Common Symptoms

  • engine stall
  • abnormal valvetrain noise
  • no-start condition
  • check engine light

How to Fix

Free recall repair at Subaru dealer under WTY-84R / NHTSA 18V-772 — valve springs replaced with redesigned higher-durability units (engine-out, ~12 hours labor). Verify VIN status at subaru.com/recalls. Note: some owners have reported post-repair engine failures (including rod knock at low mileage) per The Drive's reporting; root cause of post-repair failures is disputed and not officially confirmed.

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Call to confirm they service Subaru vehicles and check your VIN, recall eligibility, parts availability, and appointment options.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

Instrumented testing of 2022+ BRZs shows the FA24 stock oil pan and pickup cannot maintain oil pressure during sustained right-hand cornering at >1G. Documented pressure drops from 62 psi to 28 psi at high RPM cause rod bearing damage. Multiple track/autocross engine failures reported including Blake Alvarado's autocross blowup. Killer B's prototype baffle did not fully resolve. Stock cars lack oil cooler and the OEM 0W-20 is borderline at sustained track use.

Common Symptoms

  • oil pressure drop in corners
  • rod knock after track day
  • spun rod bearing
  • engine failure on track

How to Fix

If tracking the car: install Accusump oil accumulator, add aftermarket oil cooler, switch to thicker oil (5W-30 or 5W-40), limit time at sustained high lateral G. Stock car is not suitable for repeated track use per Subaru's own statements.

Typical repair cost:$600 - $15,000

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

Owners of 2022+ BRZs are finding excessive RTV silicone sealant from the factory oil pan and timing cover assembly migrating into the oil system, clogging the oil pickup screen and starving the FA24 of oil. Sealant has been found on dipsticks at as few as 500 miles; multiple complete engine failures have been documented (one at 5,498 miles). Subject of an active class action investigation by Sauder Schelkopf and Lemberg Law.

Common Symptoms

  • oil starvation
  • low oil pressure warning
  • engine knock
  • complete engine failure
  • RTV silicone on dipstick

How to Fix

Inspect oil pan/pickup at first oil change for RTV debris. Drop oil pan and clean pickup screen if contamination found. Document with photos for warranty claim. Class action investigation may yield reimbursement.

Typical repair cost:$800 - $12,000

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
680 owners

The FA20 engine in the BRZ consumes oil at elevated rates during high-RPM driving, spirited canyon runs, and track use. The engine design with direct injection and high compression (12.5:1) combined with the oil-fed variable valve timing system means oil consumption increases significantly when the engine is frequently operated above 5,000 RPM. Consumption rates of 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles are reported by owners who drive aggressively. The narrow oil galleries in the FA20 make proper oil level maintenance critical.

Common Symptoms

  • Oil level drops noticeably after spirited driving or track days
  • Low oil pressure warning during hard cornering (oil starvation)
  • Oil consumption of 1 qt per 1,000-2,000 miles with aggressive driving
  • Blue smoke under hard acceleration
  • Oil level normal during city/highway commuting but drops during performance driving

How to Fix

Check oil level before and after every spirited drive or track day. Carry an extra quart of 0W-20 (OEM spec) or 5W-30 (commonly used upgrade for track use). For track cars, install an oil catch can (Radium Engineering 20-0255-02 or Crawford Performance V3) to reduce oil vapor entering the intake. Consider an oil cooler for track use. Subaru considers up to 1 qt per 3,000 miles as acceptable.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Subaru SOA427V1310 synthetic 0W-20 engine oil, 1 quart

    2013-2020 Subaru BRZ FA20 according to the live product listing; for 2021 or any modified/track-use engine, confirm the current owner manual and oil specification before purchase.

    OAKOS Automotive

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$50 - $500

Research This Issue

Based on 680 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence680 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

Early FA20-equipped BRZs exhibit rough idle, RPM hunting, shaking, and occasional stalling shortly after cold start. Often triggers CEL with cam timing codes P0017, P0018, or P0019. Caused by ECU's reaction to normal mechanical variation in the AVCS system rather than a hardware defect. Subaru issued an ECU reflash via TSB; later production cars received the updated calibration at factory.

Common Symptoms

  • rough idle
  • RPM hunting at idle
  • cold start shaking
  • stalling
  • check engine light

How to Fix

Subaru TSB 11-136-14R (revised 05/13/14) ECM reprogramming resolves the issue at no cost under warranty (labor op A455-288, 0.4 hr). Production fix incorporated Sept 27, 2013, so later 2014 build-dates may already have the updated calibration. No hardware replacement needed. Verify by VIN at dealer.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $150

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

2022 BRZs built 6/30/2021-4/19/2022 use undersized capacitors in the rear combination lamp assemblies. Strong sunlight exposure causes voltage drop that disables the rear turn signal intermittently, creating a crash risk when other drivers can't see the signal. NHTSA recall 23V-609 covers ~3,214 US vehicles. Subaru bulletin WRM-23 issued 12/14/23, owner notifications mailed 1/8/2024.

Common Symptoms

  • rear turn signal inoperative
  • intermittent blinker failure
  • no rear blinker in sunlight

How to Fix

Free recall repair under WRM-23/23V-609 - dealer replaces both rear combination lamp assemblies with units containing properly sized capacitors. Verify VIN status at subaru.com/recalls or call 1-844-373-6614.

Find a Subaru dealer

Choose to share your location for this search, or enter an area below. Your search location is sent to Google to find dealers.

Open Subaru dealer map in Google Maps ↗

Call to confirm they service Subaru vehicles and check your VIN, recall eligibility, parts availability, and appointment options.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

2018-2019 BRZs equipped with Denso-made low-pressure in-tank fuel pumps (which feed the FA20's high-pressure direct injection system). The impeller material absorbs fuel over time, swelling and deforming until the pump binds or fails. Causes loss of fuel pressure, rough running, stalling, hard starting, and potential no-start. Covered by Subaru recall WRD-20 (initial June 2020), expanded as WRG-21 in September 2021; part of the broader 165,000+ vehicle Subaru/Denso recall and class action settlement.

Common Symptoms

  • engine stalling
  • hard start
  • no-start
  • rough running
  • fuel pump noise
  • loss of power

How to Fix

Free dealer replacement of the low-pressure fuel pump assembly under recall WRD-20. Verify VIN status at subaru.com/recalls. Do not delay - failure can leave the vehicle stranded.

Find a Subaru dealer

Choose to share your location for this search, or enter an area below. Your search location is sent to Google to find dealers.

Open Subaru dealer map in Google Maps ↗

Call to confirm they service Subaru vehicles and check your VIN, recall eligibility, parts availability, and appointment options.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
950 owners

Manual transmission BRZs commonly develop throwout bearing (release bearing) noise, typically a chirping, squealing, or grinding sound when the clutch pedal is pressed or released. The noise is most apparent in cold weather and often appears between 20,000-60,000 miles. While the noise itself is mostly a nuisance, a failed throwout bearing can cause clutch disengagement problems. Subaru has not issued a recall, but the issue is well-documented across both BRZ and Toyota 86 communities. Replacement requires transmission removal.

Common Symptoms

  • Chirping or squealing noise when pressing clutch pedal
  • Grinding noise at clutch engagement/disengagement point
  • Noise worse in cold weather, may quiet when warm
  • Difficulty shifting gears in advanced failure
  • Clutch pedal vibration or pulsation
  • Rattling at idle that goes away when clutch is pressed

How to Fix

Replace throwout bearing (Subaru 30502AA162 or Koyo equivalent). Since transmission removal is required (6-8 hours labor), replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and pilot bearing at the same time. Exedy OEM replacement kit (FJK1005) includes all components. For track-use BRZs, upgrade to an Exedy Stage 1 kit (BRZ01H1). Apply Subaru grease to input shaft splines and throwout bearing guide tube during reassembly.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Exedy FJK1005 OE-replacement clutch kit

    Not for second-generation FA24 BRZ, automatic transmission, or a track-power build requiring a separately engineered clutch/flywheel combination.

    Rallispec

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$800 - $2,000

Research This Issue

Based on 950 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence950 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
380 owners

2022+ second-generation BRZs (and twin Toyota GR86) have reports of rear differential whine or droning noise, particularly noticeable at 30-50 mph during deceleration and light throttle. The noise comes from the ring and pinion gear mesh in the Torsen limited-slip differential. While some gear noise is normal for an LSD, affected vehicles have excessive noise audible inside the cabin. Subaru released TSB 03-73-23 addressing differential noise with fluid replacement procedure.

Common Symptoms

  • Whining noise from rear of vehicle at 30-50 mph
  • Noise most noticeable during deceleration/coast
  • Droning sound that varies with speed, not RPM
  • Noise may quiet down after differential warms up
  • Sound more prominent with windows up in quiet cabin

How to Fix

Have dealer perform differential fluid replacement per TSB 03-73-23 using Subaru 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil with friction modifier (Subaru SOA427V1710). The break-in fluid is replaced with the updated fluid and an additive that reduces gear mesh noise. If noise persists after fluid change, ring and pinion inspection and possible replacement may be needed under warranty.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $800

Research This Issue

Based on 380 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence380 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
get a full repair guide

The FA20 engine in 2013-2016 BRZs was subject to a safety recall (WQG-66 / NHTSA 18V-845) for defective valve springs that can fracture due to insufficient hardness. A broken valve spring causes a cylinder misfire and can lead to engine stalling. In worst cases, the broken spring… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2013 Subaru BRZ FA20 Valve Spring Fracture (Recall WTY-84) - Stall/No-Start?

Subaru's FA20 boxer engine in early BRZs has valve springs prone to fracture, causing abnormal engine noise, stalling while driving, and a no-restart condition. NHTSA recall WTY-84 (18V-772) covers 2013 BRZ. Repair requires engine removal (~12 hours labor); some owners reported p… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2022-2024 Subaru BRZ FA24 Oil Starvation on Track - Right-Hand Cornering Pressure Drop?

Instrumented testing of 2022+ BRZs shows the FA24 stock oil pan and pickup cannot maintain oil pressure during sustained right-hand cornering at >1G. Documented pressure drops from 62 psi to 28 psi at high RPM cause rod bearing damage. Multiple track/autocross engine failures rep… Repairs typically run $600-$15,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2022 Subaru BRZ Rear Combination Lamp Capacitor Failure - Turn Signal Inoperative (Recall WRM-23)?

2022 BRZs built 6/30/2021-4/19/2022 use undersized capacitors in the rear combination lamp assemblies. Strong sunlight exposure causes voltage drop that disables the rear turn signal intermittently, creating a crash risk when other drivers can't see the signal. NHTSA recall 23V-6… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2022-2024 Subaru BRZ FA24 Excessive RTV Sealant Clogs Oil Pickup - Engine Failure?

Owners of 2022+ BRZs are finding excessive RTV silicone sealant from the factory oil pan and timing cover assembly migrating into the oil system, clogging the oil pickup screen and starving the FA24 of oil. Sealant has been found on dipsticks at as few as 500 miles; multiple comp… Repairs typically run $800-$12,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2018-2019 Subaru BRZ Denso Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Impeller Swelling (Recall WRD-20)?

2018-2019 BRZs equipped with Denso-made low-pressure in-tank fuel pumps (which feed the FA20's high-pressure direct injection system). The impeller material absorbs fuel over time, swelling and deforming until the pump binds or fails. Causes loss of fuel pressure, rough running,… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2013-2021 Subaru BRZ Throwout Bearing Noise and Premature Failure?

Manual transmission BRZs commonly develop throwout bearing (release bearing) noise, typically a chirping, squealing, or grinding sound when the clutch pedal is pressed or released. The noise is most apparent in cold weather and often appears between 20,000-60,000 miles. While the… Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2013-2021 Subaru BRZ FA20 Engine Oil Consumption During Spirited Driving?

The FA20 engine in the BRZ consumes oil at elevated rates during high-RPM driving, spirited canyon runs, and track use. The engine design with direct injection and high compression (12.5:1) combined with the oil-fed variable valve timing system means oil consumption increases sig… Repairs typically run $50-$500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2013-2014 Subaru BRZ FA20 Rough Idle / Hunting / Stall - ECM Reflash (TSB 11-136-14R)?

Early FA20-equipped BRZs exhibit rough idle, RPM hunting, shaking, and occasional stalling shortly after cold start. Often triggers CEL with cam timing codes P0017, P0018, or P0019. Caused by ECU's reaction to normal mechanical variation in the AVCS system rather than a hardware… Repairs typically run $0-$150. Severity: medium.

What is the 2022-2025 Subaru BRZ Second Generation Rear Differential Whine/Noise?

2022+ second-generation BRZs (and twin Toyota GR86) have reports of rear differential whine or droning noise, particularly noticeable at 30-50 mph during deceleration and light throttle. The noise comes from the ring and pinion gear mesh in the Torsen limited-slip differential. W… Repairs typically run $0-$800. Severity: low.