2019 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 2019 Subaru Brz problems
The Subaru BRZ, a sports car produced jointly by Subaru and Toyota, has been praised for its handling and performance. However, like any vehicle, it has had its share of problems. Here are some of the common problems with the Subaru BRZ, based on complaints from owners:
- Noisy Transmission: One of the most common complaints about the Subaru BRZ is its noisy transmission.
- Engine Issues: The 2013 model year also has a significant number of complaints about engine problems, including issues with the valve springs and engine stalling.
- Fuel Delivery System Problems: The 2018 model year of the BRZ saw a significant increase in problems related to the fuel delivery system, with issues such as stalling and poor performance reported.
- Head Gasket Cracks: Some owners of the first-generation BRZ have reported seeing slight oil and coolant leaks under the car, which can be a symptom of a potential head gasket crack.
- Valve Spring Cracks: The 2013 model year of the BRZ had a problem with valve spring cracks, which can lead to engine failure.
- Sensors and Electrical Issues: The 2013 model year of the BRZ had issues with sensors, including crucial sensors like oxygen sensors that provide information to the ECU and affect the combustion.
- Clutch Problems: The BRZ’s throw bearings are a known weakness within the system, and if they wear out, you’ll be looking at clutch problems.
- Gearbox Grind: Second gear in particular can be a bit reluctant to engage, especially when the car is cold.
- Suspension Issues: While there aren’t really any known common faults specific to the BRZ, when inspecting the suspension, look out for the sort of warning signs that you would on any other car.
- Brakes: The stock BRZ brakes came from the Subaru WRX, and given that that’s a heavier car, the stock rotors work fine for spirited street use, and even track days to be honest.
- Wheels & Tires: Toyota and Subaru deliberately sent the GT 86 and BRZ out into the public with skinny Michelin Primacy tires, the idea being that you could tickle the rear axle into a controlled slide at low speeds for extra fun factor.
It is important to note that while these problems have been reported by some owners, they may not be representative of all BRZs. Additionally, Subaru has a reputation for good reliability, and the BRZ has not been included in the What Car? Reliability Survey due to the limited number of cars sold. However, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision.
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 a Subaru BRZ a reliable car?
The Subaru BRZ Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 20th out of 21 for subcompact cars. The average annual repair cost is $672 which means it has average ownership costs. The frequency of repairs is average, but when issues do arise, they are more likely to be severe than with other models.
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.
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.
Is a Subaru BRZ a reliable car?
The Subaru BRZ Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 20th out of 21 for subcompact cars. The average annual repair cost is $672 which means it has average ownership costs. The frequency of repairs is average, but when issues do arise, they are more likely to be severe than with other models.
Is BRZ a good buy?
To cut a long story short, you should certainly take a look at the Subaru BRZ if you're a keen driver who wants a top-notch sports car that doesn't have a killer price tag or crippling running costs. Perhaps the biggest challenge is deciding between this and the Toyota.
2019 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:
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2019 Subaru Brz vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2019 Subaru Brz complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2019 Subaru Brz.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-21
- VIN: JF1ZCAC14K9
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine hiccups while engine temperature gets enough level. Nothing comes on dashboard but I can definitely felt the car's hiccup very randomly.
2019 Subaru Brz recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2019 Subaru Brz.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
- Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.
Negative 2019 Subaru Brz car reviews
Positive 2019 Subaru Brz car reviews
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The BRZ is a blast to drive, hugging the road with ease and providing a sense of safety. It may not be the fastest car out there, with only a 4-cylinder non-turbo engine, but it certainly looks and feels fast. The 6-speed manual transmission requires frequent shifting, which can be a fun experience on rural highways, but may become tedious in urban traffic. The BRZ is an affordable option for those looking for a sports car that is both economical to purchase, drive, and maintain. It definitely fulfills an important niche in the market.
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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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I've always been drawn to unique cars, like the 64-1/2 Mustang Cpe, Mazda Rotary Cpe, TR-6, and Mitsubishi Turbo Cpe. But the BRZ had me hooked from the moment I saw the blue paint and sat in the driver's seat. I couldn't help but smile from ear to ear. After adjusting the telescopic steering wheel and seat rake (although I do wish it had adjustable lumbar support), I started the test drive with the push of a button and was greeted by the pleasant rumble of the Boxer engine. I wasn't looking for turbo or V8 power, and I've been more than satisfied with the ride, stability, and overall feeling of being one with the BRZ. The short-throw 6M and brakes are easily controlled, and it checked all my boxes - great looks, fun to drive, economical, navigation, and the right price. My BRZ has taken 50 years off my life, and I'm excited for many more years behind the wheel, exploring country roads with my wife as my navigator.
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This car is definitely made for fun! Don't buy it if you're looking for a sofa-like ride, as it's a sports car - a toy for us to play with. The fit and finish are top-notch, and the handling and suspension are simply amazing. It's great fun to drive! Subaru reliability is also top-notch, and dealing with the dealership is a breeze. No complaints here! They're straight up and friendly, making the experience a pleasant one whether you're dealing with sales staff or maintenance. And let's not forget about the Michelin tires - they were made for this car and they perform exceptionally well. What grip!
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Although MT might be the top option in your head, give AT a chance. After test driving both, I got the AT BRZ, mainly because of LA's traffic. Lol
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2019 Subaru Brz problems:
Biggest issues with the BRZ 2019 and 2020 models? : r/ft86
Jan 1, 2024 ... Yes. I traded in my 2019 TRD SE for a 22 a BRZ premium, dealership took my old car for about $500 less than the MSRP on my new car.
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 ...
Can I daily a brz or gt86 and how reliable are they? : r/ft86
Apr 23, 2022 ... The FA20 doesn't have the head gasket issues of earlier Subarus. ... This is a fairly common problem and, as a ... Subaru BRZ, and Toyota GT86/GR86.
Clutch problems? - Toyota GR86, 86, FR-S and Subaru BRZ Forum ...
03-09-2019, 07:26 PM. uEih. Senior Member. Join Date: Apr 2013. Drives: CBS Subaru ... Right now I'm thinking it's the throw out bearing as I've heard its ...
Reliability putting me off the 86. - GT86/BRZ General Chat - Toyota ...
Aug 9, 2018 ... Some common and some that only I have encountered as far as I know. Compared to my previous car swift sport, I had absolutely no issues with ...


Donavon Kshlerin 2024-11-28
I recently experienced an issue with my 2017 Subaru BRZ Limited's manual transmission. The car had less than 50,000 miles and was 5 years old at the time. After taking it to a Subaru dealer near me, Subaru of North Tampa, they diagnosed the issue as worn synchronizers on the gears and recommended a transmission replacement. Unfortunately, the cost of repair was $5,000.00 and Subaru of America could not cover it due to the warranty being over 5 years and a few miles over the 50,000-mile limit. While I understand the warranty limitations, I was disappointed as I have owned several cars over the past 45 years and never had any issues with the transmission or engine. Despite this experience, I appreciate the customer service provided by Patricia and Cheri from Subaru customer care. Although the outcome was not what I had hoped for, I am grateful for their assistance and will continue to consider Subaru as a reliable car company.
Juston Adams 2024-11-27
I have had to visit the dealer five times due to issues with the head unit. Despite replacing the head unit, I was informed that my amp was also faulty. This does not explain why my phone does not work with the new head unit and software update. With only 6800 miles on the car, I am disappointed and do not trust it. It seems that Subaru did not test anything. After invoking the Lemon Law, my infotainment unit was deemed broken and replaced in a record time of 8 days. However, the new unit was not tested and I had to return the car after being told I was too stupid to sync my phone to the car. The loaner car provided, a 2019 Outback, displayed some issues with its infotainment system. Despite the ongoing lawsuit on the 2018 infotainment units, Harmon Karmon has still not fixed their problems. I am disappointed with the lousy customer service at Corporate and my local dealer, and Subaru's failure to address the numerous issues with the electronics on this car. I see no reason to buy another Subaru.
Kendrick Ondricka 2024-11-22
I recently upgraded my 2013 BRZ to a 2017 model, but unfortunately, I found it to be a bit disappointing. While it does have some nice improvements like a shark-fin antenna and LED lighting, there are several areas where Subaru missed the mark. As a sports car, it should have better acceleration, but it feels slow and unresponsive. The standard OEM navigation map is no longer available, leaving a large dead area on the dash. Additionally, the Bluetooth connection to my iPhone is unreliable, and the steering wheel doesn't feel as nice as the previous model. The rear seating area is also smaller, making it difficult to comfortably seat four adults. Despite these issues, I still appreciate the improvements that were made and look forward to seeing what Subaru does in the future.I'm disappointed with my factory-ordered brand new car. There are various rattles and vibrations that shouldn't be happening. Even though the car is blue, the pearl blue color isn't impressive. If I knew then what I know now, I wouldn't have traded in my 2013 for this car. However, I appreciate the opportunity to update my review. I've decided to trade in this car for a 'real' American sports car - the C8 Corvette. Thank you, Subaru.