Affordable rear-wheel-drive sports car built jointly with Toyota (sold as 86/FR-S/GT86). Beloved by enthusiasts for sharp handling and driver engagement. The FA20 engine is generally reliable, but early models (2012-2014) were affected by a critical valve spring recall that, when improperly repaired, caused catastrophic engine failures. Other common issues include throwout bearing wear, ignition coil overheating on cylinders 1 and 3, high-pressure fuel pump chirping, and manual transmission notchiness when cold. Track use accelerates wear on coil packs, clutch, and brakes. Service at Subaru specialist or Toyota dealer recommended for recall verification.
Critical recall for 2013-2014 models; some engines failed after botched recall work · more· less
Subaru recalled 2013-2014 BRZ models (and related Impreza/Crosstrek with FA20/FB20 engines) for valve springs that could fracture, causing engine stall or failure. The recall work (WTY-84) involves removing the engine and replacing valve springs—a 15-20 hour job. Many owners reported catastrophic engine failures shortly after the recall repair was completed, attributed to technicians using excessive RTV sealant that clogged the oil pickup. Engine replacement or rebuild costs €5,000-12,000 if not covered by warranty. A class-action lawsuit was filed. If buying a 2013-2014 BRZ, verify the recall was completed AND that the engine hasn't developed low oil pressure or rod knock afterward. This is the single most important check for early BRZ models.
Common wear item on manual gearbox models, especially 2013-2015 · more· less
The earliest BRZ/FR-S/86 models (2013-2015) left the factory with less-refined clutch components, and the throwout bearing is a known weak point. Symptoms include squeaking, grinding, or noise when in neutral (goes away when clutch is depressed). Failure typically occurs between 40,000-80,000 km, earlier if driven on track. Some early cars used a plastic bearing that failed during track days. Repair requires transmission removal. Since labor is the major expense, most owners replace the entire clutch assembly (disc, pressure plate, pilot bearing, throwout bearing) at once. Independent shop cost: €800-1,400. Dealer: €1,800-2,200. Upgraded aftermarket sealed bearings are available and recommended.
Heat from exhaust header causes coils to fail prematurely, especially 2013-2014 · more· less
One of the most common issues with 2013-2014 BRZ models. The passenger-side coil packs (cylinders 1 and 3) run along the exhaust header and overheat, causing misfires and premature wear. Symptoms include rough running, loss of power, check engine light with codes P0301, P0303, P0351, or P0353. Track use accelerates failure. Subaru TSB 07-120-17 calls for replacing the wiring harness and coil packs with updated 2015+ versions. Many owners call this "a rite of passage" for 2013-2014 BRZ ownership. Single coil replacement: €80-200. All four coils: €400-600 parts + €200-400 labor at dealer. Some owners attempt heat shielding modifications with mixed results. 2015+ models have improved coils but are not immune.
Loud cricket/chirping sound from engine bay at idle after warm-up · more· less
The high-pressure direct injection fuel pump makes a loud chirping or cricket noise at idle, especially when hot (oil temp above 90°C). Subaru TSB 09-54-12R addresses this, stating it's caused by fuel aeration and is "non-detrimental to the vehicle." Many dealers now consider it "standard operating noise." Pump replacement is covered under warranty but often the new pump chirps again after a few weeks. Some owners report switching to ethanol-free premium fuel (Shell, Chevron) reduces or eliminates the noise. If the noise bothers you, budget €600-1,200 for pump replacement at a dealer, but know that it may return. This is cosmetic/annoyance rather than a mechanical failure.
Software mapping error causes rough idle, RPM hunting, and stalling · more· less
Affected some early 2012-2013 BRZ models. The ECU software had a mapping glitch causing rough idle with RPM hunting, severe shaking, stalling, and check engine light with codes P0017, P0018, or P0019 (cam correlation). A free ECU reflash from Subaru or Toyota dealer fixes the issue. Subaru confirmed no damage occurs and ECU replacement is not needed. Most BRZ models delivered after mid-August 2012 already had the updated software. If buying an early 2013 model and it exhibits rough idle, request the TSB reflash. This is a one-time software fix, not an ongoing problem.
Power steering ECU / harness (2013-2015)€600 - €1,400
Premature wear of electric power steering control module on early cars · more· less
BRZ models built between January 2013 and December 2015 are known to experience premature power steering ECU and wiring harness failure. Symptoms include heavy or stiff steering, especially at low speeds. The power steering control module (part 34710CA050) and possibly the harness need replacement. Parts cost approximately €300-600, labor adds another €300-800 depending on whether just the ECU or the entire harness needs replacement. Check for steering effort consistency during test drive, especially parking maneuvers.
Difficult gear engagement when cold, especially 1st-2nd and 3rd-2nd shifts · more· less
The 6-speed manual gearbox is generally robust but can be notchy or balky when cold, particularly shifting from 1st to 2nd and 3rd to 2nd. This is common across all BRZ/86/FR-S models and often improves once the gearbox warms up. Some cars were delivered from the factory without sufficient transmission fluid. Using high-quality gear oil (75W-90 synthetic) and ensuring proper fill level helps. If shifting remains difficult when warm, synchros may be worn (more common above 100,000 km or with hard driving). Fluid change: €150-250. Synchro replacement requires gearbox disassembly and costs €1,500-2,500. Most owners live with minor cold-weather notchiness as it's characteristic of the platform.
Water pump failure€400 - €900
Water pump can fail or leak, typically after 80,000-120,000 km · more· less
The FA20 engine's water pump is not particularly failure-prone but can leak or fail at higher mileage. Symptoms include coolant warning light, overheating, coolant leaks under the car, or poor cabin heating. Parts cost €150-300 for OEM or quality aftermarket pump. Labor is 3-5 hours due to boxer engine layout. Total cost: €400-900. Many owners replace the water pump preventively around 100,000 km or when replacing the timing chain components. Often replaced along with thermostat (add €100-150).
Oil consumption (normal for FA20)€0 (monitor) / €50 - €150/year
Some oil consumption between changes is normal, especially with spirited driving · more· less
The FA20 boxer engine can consume some oil, particularly when driven hard or on track. Subaru considers up to 1 quart (0.95L) per 1,000 miles "within specification," though most BRZ owners report much less consumption. Many owners see 0.5-0.7 quarts over 8,000 km oil change intervals. Using thicker oil (5W-30 instead of 0W-20) can reduce consumption. Check oil level every 1,000 km, especially if you drive spiritedly. Budget €50-150/year for top-ups. Excessive consumption (more than 1L per 5,000 km) may indicate worn piston rings or valve seals and should be investigated. Regular oil changes (every 6,000-8,000 km) with quality synthetic oil are essential for FA20 longevity.
Rear light condensation€0 (seal) / €200 - €600
Moisture accumulates in rear taillights after heavy rain · more· less
Many BRZ owners report rear light condensation after heavy rainfall. This is usually caused by degraded or improperly sealed gaskets. Can often be fixed by resealing the light housing with silicone (DIY for €20-50 in materials). If the lights are corroded or broken due to moisture ingress, replacement rear light assemblies cost €200-600 per side from Subaru. Check for moisture during pre-purchase inspection, especially in wet weather.
Generally reliable with critical exceptions
The BRZ is considered one of the more reliable affordable sports cars when maintained properly, but the 2013-2014 valve spring recall is a serious concern. Verify recall completion and post-recall engine health before purchasing any early model. Expect higher-than-normal maintenance costs if driven on track. The FA20 engine itself is robust with a timing chain (no belt replacement needed), but heat-related component failures (coil packs, fuel pump, throwout bearing) are common. Manual gearbox models are more reliable than automatic. Ownership satisfaction among enthusiasts is very high despite the quirks.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. Verify oil changes at proper intervals (every 6,000-8,000 km). Subaru dealer or specialist service preferred.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), uneven wear patterns. Stock sizes: 215/45R17 or 215/40R18. Rear tires wear faster, especially with spirited driving.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual rattles, misfires, or rough running. Check for oil or coolant leaks underneath.
Body condition
Check for rust (rare on this model), accident damage, paint mismatch. Look for track day damage: curbed wheels, stone chips, undercarriage scrapes.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including highway speeds. Let the car fully warm up. Test all gears thoroughly.
Specific for this vehicle
Verify valve spring recall completion (2013-2014 models CRITICAL)
Contact Subaru dealer with VIN to confirm recall WTY-84 was completed. Ask when it was done and if there have been any engine issues since. Listen carefully for any unusual engine noises, check for low oil pressure warning, and ask about oil consumption. This is the most important check for early BRZ models.
Check for throwout bearing / clutch noise (manual only)
Start engine in neutral without pressing clutch. Listen for squeaking, chirping, or grinding. Press clutch pedal—noise should disappear. If noise persists or clutch feels inconsistent, budget for clutch replacement soon.
Test for ignition coil issues
After car is fully warmed up, check for rough idle, hesitation, or misfires. Any check engine light? Plug in OBD scanner and check for codes P0301, P0303, P0351, P0353 (coil/misfire). If present, coils likely need replacement.
Listen for fuel pump chirping at hot idle
Drive the car for 20+ minutes until fully warmed. Idle in a quiet area. Listen for loud cricket/chirping sound from engine bay. This is common and harmless but annoying. Use as negotiation point if it bothers you.
Manual transmission feel (cold and warm)
Test all gears when cold, especially 1st-2nd and 3rd-2nd shifts. Some notchiness when cold is normal. Retest when warm—should improve significantly. Grinding or extreme difficulty may indicate worn synchros or low fluid.
Check power steering operation (2013-2015 models)
Test steering at low speeds, parking maneuvers. Steering should be consistent, not suddenly heavy or stiff. Variable effort may indicate failing power steering ECU.
Look for signs of track use
Excessive brake dust, uneven brake wear, aftermarket brake pads, worn tire shoulders, roll cage mounting points, hardwired electronics (lap timers, data loggers). Track use accelerates wear on brakes, clutch, coil packs, and suspension components.
Check for modifications and tune
Aftermarket exhaust, intake, headers, ECU tune, lowering springs, coilovers. Heavy modifications may indicate hard use and can void warranty. Ask if car has been returned to stock or if tune files are available.
Oil level and condition
Check oil level (should be between min and max on dipstick). Some consumption is normal. Dark brown/black oil is fine if recently changed. Milky oil or low level is a red flag.
Coolant level and condition
Check overflow reservoir. Coolant should be bright blue/green, not brown or rusty. Low coolant may indicate water pump leak or head gasket issue (rare on FA20).
Check rear lights for condensation
Inspect rear taillights for moisture, especially after rain or car wash. Minor condensation is common but corrosion inside the light housing requires replacement.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Valve spring fracture (2013-2014 BRZ)CRITICAL - Verify WTY-84 completed
Airbag inflator (varies by VIN)Check with Subaru dealer
Contact a Subaru dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls and TSBs have been addressed. The valve spring recall (WTY-84) is by far the most critical for 2013-2014 models and must be verified before purchase. Ask not just if it was done, but WHEN and if there have been any engine problems since the recall work.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 60,000 km)Expired on all ZC6 models
Powertrain warranty (5 years / 100,000 km)Likely expired (check VIN)
Extended warranty availableCheck with Subaru dealer for options
All first-generation BRZ models (2012-2020) are now outside their original factory warranty period. Extended warranty options may be available through Subaru or third-party providers, but coverage often excludes wear items like clutch, brake pads, and suspension bushings. Ask about coverage for coil packs, water pump, and fuel pump if considering extended warranty.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.