2023 Subaru BRZ

Introduction The 2023 Subaru BRZ is a sports coupe that offers a thrilling driving experience. It is powered by a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine that produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. The BRZ is widely praised for its sharp handling and engaging performance. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as a cramped interior and a firm ride.

Engine

• 2.4-Liter Boxer Engine
  • Valve Spring Failure: Premature failure of valve springs, leading to loss of power and potential catastrophic engine damage. Also, known as “valve float.”
  • Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, rattling noises
  • Solution: Replacement of valve springs and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: NHTSA Recall Number 22V-757

Transmission

• Six-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Shifting Difficulties: Difficulty engaging gears, grinding noises during shifts.
  • Symptoms: Grating or difficulty moving the shift lever
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of shift linkage components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Six-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Hesitation or Jerking During Shifts: Transmission hesitates or jerks noticeably during gear changes
  • Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of transmission components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Wear: Premature wear of front suspension control arm bushings, leading to a knocking or clunking noise when driving over bumps.
  • Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noises, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replacement of worn bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain: Rapid or persistent battery discharge, even when the vehicle is not in use
  • Symptoms: Battery dies quickly, difficulty starting the car
  • Solution: Diagnosis of electrical system, replacement of faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Steering Wheel Vibrations: Excessive vibrations in the steering wheel, particularly at higher speeds
  • Symptoms: Shaking or vibrating steering wheel
  • Solution: Balancing or replacement of tires, alignment adjustments
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC System Malfunctions: Issues with heating, ventilation, or air conditioning systems, such as poor airflow or temperature control problems
  • Symptoms: Weak or inconsistent airflow, ineffective heating or cooling
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Spoiler Detachment: Securement issues with the rear spoiler, which can cause it to detach while driving
  • Symptoms: Loose or detached rear spoiler
  • Solution: Inspection and reinstallation or replacement of the spoiler
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: NHTSA Recall Number 22V-771

Summary

The 2023 Subaru BRZ is a fun and engaging sports coupe with a few notable issues. The engine valve spring failure is a serious concern that can lead to catastrophic damage if not addressed promptly. The transmission issues, while not as severe, can still be frustrating and costly to fix. Other problems, such as suspension bushing wear and HVAC malfunctions, are relatively common but less expensive to resolve. Overall, the severity and cost of the issues are not insignificant, so potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems before making a purchase decision.