2016 Subaru Brz problems
The Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ are 2+2 sports cars jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, manufactured at Subaru's Gunma assembly plant.
The 2+2 fastback coupé has a naturally-aspirated boxer engine, front-engined, rear-wheel-drive configuration, 53/47 front/rear weight balance and low centre of gravity; it was inspired by Toyota's earlier AE86, a small, light, front-engine/rear-drive Corolla variant widely popular for Showroom Stock, Group A, Group N, Rally, Club and drift racing.
For the first-generation model, Toyota marketed the sports car as the 86 in Asia, Australia, North America (from August 2016), South Africa, and South America; as the Toyota GT86 in Europe; as the 86 and GT86 in New Zealand; as the Toyota FT86 in Brunei, Nicaragua and Jamaica and as the Scion FR-S (2012–2016) in the United States and Canada.
The second-generation model is marketed by Toyota as the GR86 as part of the Gazoo Racing family.
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Common 2016 Subaru Brz problems
The Subaru BRZ 2016 is a popular sports car known for its rear-wheel drive and handling capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems.
One of the most commonly reported issues with the Subaru BRZ 2016 is a noisy transmission. This problem is often centered around the transmission's operations and can be caused by various factors, including wear and tear or manufacturing defects. While it may not significantly affect the car's performance, it can be an annoyance for drivers.
Another common problem with the Subaru BRZ 2016 is condensation in the rear lights. This issue is more noticeable after heavy rainfall and can be a sign of a larger problem with the car's seals or waterproofing. If left untreated, it can lead to more significant electrical issues and potentially affect the car's safety.
Some owners of the Subaru BRZ 2016 have also reported poor engine idling, which can cause the car to shudder or cut out. This problem is often caused by an ECU software fault and can be fixed by re-mapping the ECU.
Gearbox problems are also a common issue with the Subaru BRZ 2016, particularly when changing gears on cold mornings or between specific gears. This problem can be caused by low transmission fluid levels or issues with the gear syncros. If you experience this issue, it's essential to take your car to a dealership to have it checked out, as it can affect the car's safety and performance.
Fuel pump problems have also been reported with the Subaru BRZ 2016, causing a chirping noise when the engine is idling. This problem is caused by a known issue with the high-pressure fuel pump and can be fixed by replacing the pump if your vehicle is still under warranty.
Finally, some owners of the Subaru BRZ 2016 have reported backfiring and a tapping or ticking noise from the engine, which can be caused by heavy loads exceeding the strength of the valve springs. This problem can be fixed by replacing the damaged valve springs.
While these common problems can be frustrating for Subaru BRZ 2016 owners, it's important to note that the car is generally considered reliable and safe. By staying on top of regular maintenance and addressing any issues promptly, you can help ensure that your Subaru BRZ 2016 remains a reliable and enjoyable vehicle to drive.
Is Subaru BRZ 2016 reliable?
The 2016 Subaru BRZ has a reliability rating of three out of five from J.D. Power, which is considered average across the industry.
What are the main issues with the Subaru BRZ?
Subaru BRZ Most Common Problems
- Valve spring recall saga.
- Second gear grind.
- Weak brake pads.
- Worn clutch throw bearings.
What is the weakness of the BRZ?
We embarked on this undertaking to see if budget-minded upgrades could address the BRZ's (and the GR86's) primary shortcoming: weak brakes that don't stand up well to heavy abuse, which result in longer braking distances on the track and, ultimately, slower lap times.
Is BRZ high maintenance?
A Subaru BRZ will cost about $6,393 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for popular coupe models by $1,030. There is also a 18.74% chance that a BRZ will require a major repair during that time. This is 2.76% better than similar vehicles in this segment.
Is Subaru BRZ 2016 reliable?
The 2016 Subaru BRZ has a reliability rating of three out of five from J.D. Power, which is considered average across the industry.
What are the biggest issues with the BRZ?
First, a known weakness within the system is the BRZ's throw bearings. If they wear out, you'll be looking at clutch problems.
What is the weakness of the BRZ?
We embarked on this undertaking to see if budget-minded upgrades could address the BRZ's (and the GR86's) primary shortcoming: weak brakes that don't stand up well to heavy abuse, which result in longer braking distances on the track and, ultimately, slower lap times.
Are Subaru BRZ reliable?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 18% for the Subaru BRZ, compared to an average of 11% for subcompact cars and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
2016 Subaru Brz car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Brz problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
- Wheels problems
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2016 Subaru Brz vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2016 Subaru Brz complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Subaru Brz.
SUSPENSION,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-03
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1ZCAC15G8
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: On the day before Easter, while driving down W. Colonial Dr., a car suddenly pulled out in front of me, causing me to slam on the brakes. immediately after, it seemed like the brake booster blew out, as my brakes started making a hissing sound and felt like they were losing pressure. Additionally, I noticed a clunking noise coming from my car. Three or four days later, while driving, my brakes failed and I ended up rear-ending another vehicle. I contacted the dealership from where I purchased the car less than a month ago, but I am still unsure if they will help me fix it. There seems to be a problem with the bearings or the suspension in addition to the brakes, but I am not sure if the dealership will help me fix any of these issues.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-29
- VIN: JF1ZCAC16G9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY BRZ IS EXPERIENCING BATTERY DRAIN ISSUES. I HAVE REPLACED THE BATTERY WITH AN OEM BATTERY FROM SUBARU, BUT MY CAR STILL HAS A DRAIN ON THE BATTERY. I HAD TO PURCHASE A PORTABLE JUMP STARTER KIT TO ENSURE THAT IF THE CAR DIDN'T START THAT I HAD A JUMP AVAILABLE. I HAVE NOT BROUGHT THE CAR IN FOR SERVICE AS OF NOW. THIS SITUATION HAS HAPPENED A FEW TIMES OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS. I THOUGHT I MAY HAVE LEFT A LIGHT ON, BUT WHEN I HAD THE CAR JUMP STARTED, I NOTICED THERE WERE NO LIGHTS ON.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-13
- VIN: 4S3BNAE6XG3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: "TAKATA RECALL" FRONT PASSENGER WINDOW IS TEMPERMENTAL AND ON MANY OCCASIONS WILL NOT CLOSE UNLESS INCHED UP CAREFULLY IN INCREMENTS. SINCE THIS IS DONE WHILE DRIVING IT IS A GREAT DISTRACTION AND IS AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. WIRING WAS ALREADY REPLACED, BUT WAS TOLD BY ATTENDANT THAT HER CAR WINDOW DOES THE SAME THING AND IS CAUSED BY THE EXPANSION OF THE PLASTIC PIECE ON THE TOP OF THE WINDOW SILL NEEDED FOR CLOSURE. THIS IS A LAYPERSONS EXPLANATION OF THE EXISTING PROBLEM. THE WINDOW SOMETIMES GOES UP OR DOWN AND NOT HALF WAY AS WELL. THE OTHER THREE WINDOWS WORK WITHOUT PROBLEMS. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AND FIXED WITHOUT DELAY.
Negative 2016 Subaru Brz car reviews
Positive 2016 Subaru Brz car reviews
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As a fellow driving enthusiast, I have to say that I absolutely love the 6-speed manual gearbox! When people ask me if I like my car, I can't help but gush about how much fun it is to toss into corners and how excellent the steering response and braking are. Of course, there's always room for improvement, and I think adding some aftermarket brakes and more personalized wheels would really take it to the next level. The touch screen audio/navigation system and voice activated command system could also use some work, but I understand that they come with the upgraded interior. While road noise is noticeable, I don't mind it because I'm too busy enjoying the experience of driving. If you're someone who sees driving as just another chore, then this car probably isn't for you. The deep bucket seats are perfect for spirited cornering, and the heaters in the Limited trim are a great addition for winter driving. Overall, this car may not be the most practical choice, but it's definitely a blast to drive, especially when you're shifting gears manually. And let's be honest, who needs a radio when you have that amazing exhaust note at full throttle above 4,000 RPM? ;-)
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This is a great little sports car! It has fantastic handling and looks great. The manual shifter is direct and precise, and the visibility is good. I bought this car because I only drive 6 miles a day in traffic in Chicago, so I don't need a big V8 motor, as much as I want one. It's good on gas too, with 35mpg on the highway or about 18mpg combined driving. The acceleration is brisk (it's okay, it's a little 2.0L 4cyl.), and while the back seat is torture for anyone, it has decent trunk space. The radio is not the best, with tiny buttons and poor sound out of the stock speakers, even with the top of the line limited model. However, I've had this car for over 5 years now, and it's been very reliable and cheap to maintain and own. It's a fun car to drive year-round in snow with snow tires, and in the summer, I take it to race tracks for driving fun at the limits. I am debating upgrading to a Porsche, but it will be tough to ever sell or trade in this car, except for the new 2022 model coming out in the fall!
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undefinedThis car has been a great purchase for my husband and me. While there are some minor issues with the music and maps controls, the internal temperature controls and clock are perfect. The display for the maps is easy to read, which is a plus. Every time I take a sharp curve, I fall in love with this car all over again. It's like being a kid in a go-cart. Even after owning it for a while, the car is still performing great. We've followed all recommended maintenance and have had no mechanical or any other problems. Although the headlights aren't great for rural areas where wildlife leaps out at you, they're perfectly fine in populated areas. We do recommend replacing the speakers and entertainment panel with an aftermarket Android Auto install, but it's an easy upgrade. Overall, we feel comfortable recommending this reliable used car made in Japan, as long as the previous owner wasn't an idiot driver. Please note that our car is a manual, so automatics might be different.
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I really enjoyed driving this car! Once I got used to the rear wheel drive, it was able to hug corners really well. The gear shifts were perfect and the dash was simple and basic, with all the information I needed in one place. Coming from a car with an overwhelming amount of useless information on the dash, I found the red lights and simplicity to be very welcoming. Additionally, this car had all the extra features I wanted, such as heated seats, soft leather, bluetooth, adjustable headlights, and the option to see outside temperature, mpg, etc. The gears and steering were tight, and the handling was perfect. I did test drive the automatic version, but I wouldn't have bought it. The manual made all the difference. While the back seats are mostly for show and can't hold much more than a 40 lb dog with the back laid down, I was able to find weathertech mats for the front and back that fit perfectly.
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There are plenty of printed road tests and videos available for the BRZ, FRS, and 86. It's important to educate yourself by reading and watching as many as you can, so you know what to expect. While the car is small and lacks some conveniences, it's still a great daily driver with plenty of power if you apply it correctly. It's important to note that the car is not suitable for four passengers and requires premium gas. However, if you can live with the small size, harsh ride, and some road noise, you'll be fine. These are driver's cars, and that's what makes them so special. I didn't even test drive mine, but I had done my homework. After picking it up, I caught myself grinning from ear to ear after driving just two miles. The car drives like a go-kart! Make sure to thoroughly check out the car before committing to it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2016 Subaru Brz problems:
Common BRZ Reliability Issues : r/ft86
Mar 1, 2017 ... I haven't really looked into the common problems/cost of ownership with the BRZ. I'm just looking into the extended warranty for the car, ...
2016 Subaru BRZ Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2016 Subaru BRZ? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Here Are The Subaru BRZ Years To Avoid - CoPilot
Sep 6, 2022 ... Common Subaru BRZ Problems · Noisy transmission: One of the most common complaints about the Subaru BRZ is its noisy transmission. · Infotainment ...
Subaru BRZ: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
Your transmission throw-bearing has worn out, which is very common on early models of the BRZ. Tackle this problem quickly because it will lead to a clutch fork ...
What issues should i look for why buying a used FR-S? - Toyota ...
Apr 16, 2019 ... Poor installation, hack job wiring and defective parts (even on the name brand ones) are an all to common problem. Take a close look at the ...
Other years of Subaru Brz
Are you having problems with your 2016 Subaru Brz?
Carey Emard 2024-11-29
If you're considering purchasing this car, it's important to keep in mind the potential expense of walnut shell blasting for your intake valves. It's unfortunate that Subaru hasn't followed Toyota's lead in combining Direct Injection with Port Injection to automatically clean the intakes. However, despite this issue, these cars handle wonderfully and are a blast to drive. It's just a shame that some owners have experienced blown head gaskets, especially on vehicles that are pushed to their limits like the BRZ. Hopefully, Subaru will eventually realize that the boxer design is becoming outdated, as even Porsche is moving away from it. While the design may look and sound great, it's important to consider the potential maintenance costs. Overall, these cars are a joy to drive, but it's important to keep in mind the potential expenses and issues that may arise.