Subaru BRZ 2.0 ZC6

The most common BRZ problem. The front timing cover is sealed to the engine block with liquid gasket (RTV sealant) rather than a solid gasket. Over time, heat cycles cause the sealant to crack and shrink, allowing oil to seep out. The leak typically appears first at the cam plate (a small blanking plate on the rear of the cylinder head) or at the front timing cover surface. The cam plate leak is a straightforward fix: an aftermarket billet aluminium cam plate with an O-ring seal replaces the factory stamped steel part for around €50-100 in parts. The front timing cover reseal is more involved but does not require engine removal. A specialist reseal including surface preparation, new sealant, cam seals, and fresh oil costs €400-600. If ignored, oil can drip onto the exhaust and create a burning smell, and prolonged low oil levels risk engine damage.

The OEM throwout bearing has a known design flaw that has affected the ZN6/ZC6 platform since launch. The factory applies only a thin layer of grease that breaks down quickly under heat. Symptoms include a chirping, squealing, or grinding noise when pressing or releasing the clutch pedal. The throwout bearing carrier can show visible scoring with surprisingly low mileage. Subaru issued a revised bearing part number, but even updated OEM bearings have proven short-lived. Since replacing the throwout bearing requires gearbox removal, most owners combine it with a clutch replacement. Bearing-only replacement at an independent shop costs €300-500 in labour plus €30-80 for the part. A combined clutch and throwout bearing replacement runs €800-1,200 at an independent shop. The noise itself is harmless until the bearing begins to seize, at which point clutch operation becomes stiff or inconsistent.

Subaru issued recall WTY-84 for BRZ models produced between April 2012 and May 2013. A manufacturing defect in the valve spring material causes fatigue strength to be lower than specification. If a valve spring fractures while driving, the engine may stall and potentially suffer valve-to-piston contact, destroying the cylinder head and possibly the block. The recall replaces all 16 valve springs with improved components, free of charge at any Subaru dealer. However, some owners reported that during the recall repair, excess sealant was applied which subsequently caused engine issues. If the recall has not been completed, the risk of spring fracture increases significantly with age and mileage. Engine damage from a fractured spring costs €3,000-4,000 for a cylinder head rebuild or more for a complete engine replacement. Always verify recall completion on any 2012-2013 BRZ before purchase.

The 2012-2014 BRZ uses ignition coils that are prone to overheating, particularly under sustained high-RPM driving or track use. The issue triggers diagnostic codes P0351-P0354 and causes misfires, rough running, and check engine light. Subaru issued TSB 07-120-17 which calls for replacement of the wiring harness and coil packs with the revised 2015+ design. The updated coils and harness connectors feature a shape change and positive lock mechanism. New and old parts are not interchangeable and must be installed as a set. An independent shop can perform the update for €200-400 in parts and labour. If left unaddressed, persistent misfires can damage the catalytic converter, which is significantly more expensive to replace. Cars from 2015 onwards use the revised design and are not affected.

Like many Japanese cars, the BRZ's subframes and underbody components have minimal factory corrosion protection. Surface rust on subframe welds and suspension mounting points is common on cars older than 5-6 years, particularly in northern European countries that use road salt in winter. In most cases the corrosion is cosmetic and can be arrested with professional underbody treatment (Dinitrol, Tectyl, or similar) costing €300-500. In severe cases where corrosion penetrates the structural metal of the subframe, replacement is necessary to pass roadworthiness inspection. A new front subframe costs €400-600 in parts with around €400-600 in labour. Applying underbody protection proactively is strongly recommended for any BRZ that will see winter use.

The factory tail light gaskets on the BRZ are a known weak point. The gasket material is too thin and degrades over time, allowing water vapour and eventually liquid water into the tail light housing. This causes fogging, condensation, and in severe cases pooling water that can damage the LED elements. Headlights are similarly affected but less frequently. Aftermarket neoprene gaskets designed for the BRZ/GT86 provide a superior seal for around €20-30 and are a worthwhile preventive measure. New OEM tail light units cost €150-200 each if internals are damaged. Headlight condensation is typically resolved by resealing with fresh silicone.