2022 Subaru BRZ

The 2022 Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that was fully redesigned for the model year. It is powered by a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It’s available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the BRZ for its balanced handling, engaging driving experience, and affordability. Common criticisms include the relatively small engine, limited cargo space, and basic interior features.

Engine

2.4L Boxer Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes.
  • Solution: Monitoring oil levels closely and topping off as needed. Potential fixes may include engine rebuild or replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000+ for engine replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Control Unit (ECU) Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, poor idling, loss of power, and Check Engine Light activation. Diagnostic codes pointing to ECU or related sensor issues.
  • Solution: ECU reprogramming or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears, especially 2nd and 3rd, often accompanied by grinding noises.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement, focusing on replacing worn synchronizers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt and noticeable gear changes, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Transmission software update, valve body replacement, or transmission replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Knocking Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A knocking or clunking sound emanating from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing worn or loose suspension components such as sway bar end links, bushings, or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes requiring a restart.
  • Solution: Software update for the infotainment system. Replacing the infotainment unit if the issue persists.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $800+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery drains quickly, especially when left sitting for a few days, leading to difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Diagnosing parasitic drain, replacing faulty battery, or addressing charging system issues (alternator).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Rattling Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises coming from within the dashboard, particularly on rough roads.
  • Solution: Identifying and securing loose components within the dashboard. Often requires professional disassembly and reassembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2022 Subaru BRZ, while praised for its handling and driver engagement, has exhibited some issues. The most concerning are potential engine oil consumption and transmission problems, which could lead to significant repair costs. Electrical gremlins with the infotainment system and battery can also be frustrating. Suspension noises and interior rattles detract from the overall experience but are typically less expensive to resolve. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase, paying close attention to oil levels, transmission behavior, and the functionality of electrical components.