2014 Subaru BRZ

The 2014 Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive sports car known for its balanced handling and engaging driving experience. It comes equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the BRZ’s affordability, precise steering, and sporty feel. Criticisms often center around the modest power output, road noise, and relatively spartan interior.

Engine

2.0L FA20 (Naturally Aspirated)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption. Symptoms include needing to add oil more frequently between changes and potentially seeing blue smoke from the exhaust. This is a widespread issue and has even resulted in a class action lawsuit.
  • Solution: The class action lawsuit (Pistons Slap Lawsuit) provided a warranty extension for certain VINs. The most common fix is a replacement of the piston rings, short block, or even long block assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $7,000+ depending on the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Spring Recall (Early Models)
  • Description/Symptoms: Some early 2013 models experienced valve spring failure. Symptoms of valve spring failure can include engine misfires, rough running, and in severe cases, engine damage.
  • Solution: Affected vehicles require valve spring replacement performed by a Subaru dealer.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Covered under recall.
  • Recalls: WTJ-74
• Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel pump failure can result in engine stalling, difficulty starting, or reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Fuel pump replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Occasional Grinding or Difficulty Shifting into Certain Gears (Specifically 2nd and 3rd)
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing grinding when shifting into 2nd or 3rd gear, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Some owners have improved the situation by switching to a different transmission fluid. More severe cases may require synchro replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300 for fluid change. $1,500 - $3,000+ for synchro replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced rear suspension sagging prematurely, especially when carrying passengers or cargo. This can result in a less comfortable ride and reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear springs with new or aftermarket springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Head Unit Issues/Bluetooth Connectivity Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The factory head unit can experience issues with Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen responsiveness, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software update (if available) or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for diagnosis and software update. $300 - $1,000+ for head unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the tail light housings, leading to condensation.
  • Solution: Some owners drill a small drain hole. Others replace the tail light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $500+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Driver’s seat rocking issue
  • Description/Symptoms: The driver’s seat can rock back and forth due to a faulty seat frame or mounting bracket.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat frame or bracket, or tightening of the mounting bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100 for bolt tightening. $200 - $800+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Subaru BRZ is a fun-to-drive sports car but is not without its issues. The most significant concern is the potential for excessive oil consumption in the engine, which can be costly to repair. Other issues, such as transmission grinding and head unit problems, are less widespread but can still be frustrating for owners. While the BRZ has some potential reliability concerns, addressing them proactively can help ensure a more enjoyable ownership experience. Overall, the severity of the problems range from minor to major, with cost ranging from under $100 to over $7,000.