2015 Subaru BRZ

The 2015 Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel drive sports coupe known for its engaging handling and driver-focused experience. It is offered with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine producing 200 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Owners often praise the BRZ for its affordability, lightweight design, and balanced chassis, making it a fun car to drive. Common complaints revolve around the lack of low-end torque, relatively basic interior, and road noise.

Engine

2.0L Naturally Aspirated Boxer Engine

• Engine Failure/Rod Knock
  • Description/Symptoms: A knocking noise emanating from the engine, often described as “rod knock,” can indicate a serious internal engine issue. This can lead to complete engine failure if not addressed. Often occurs after track use or aggressive driving.
  • Solution: Engine replacement or a complete rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000 - $8,000+
• Valve Spring Recall
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may stall or fail while driving.
  • Solution: Replace valve springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Covered under recall (varies if not under recall)
  • Recalls: TSB: 18-236-16
• Fuel Injector Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel odor, rough idling, poor fuel economy, or difficulty starting the engine. Can lead to fuel dilution of the engine oil.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per injector, depending on labor.

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchro Wear/Grinding Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears, particularly 2nd or 3rd, accompanied by a grinding noise. This indicates wear or damage to the synchronizers within the transmission.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable harshness during gear changes, or a delay in shifting. This could indicate issues with the transmission’s valve body or solenoids.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery frequently dies, especially after the car has been sitting for a relatively short period. This could be caused by a parasitic drain from a faulty component or an issue with the charging system.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain, or replace the battery/alternator if faulty.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the complexity of the issue).
• Head Unit Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning touch screen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, or complete head unit failure.
  • Solution: Head unit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Various rattles emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck, particularly on rough roads.
  • Solution: Identifying and securing the loose components, often involving adding padding or tightening fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the severity and labor required).

Summary

The 2015 Subaru BRZ, while a fun and engaging sports car, does have some known issues. The most concerning is the potential for engine failure (rod knock), which can be a very costly repair. Issues with the manual transmission synchros are also relatively common. Electrical problems, such as battery drain, can be inconvenient. The issues are moderate in severity, with engine and transmission repairs being the most expensive. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and carefully inspect any used BRZ before purchase.