IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2012–2013 Subaru BRZ

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2012–2013 Subaru BRZ. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
2
Minor

The 2012–2013 period has 3 more issues than the Subaru BRZ average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Valve Spring Recall

SeriousEngine

Early models were subject to a major recall for valve springs that could fail, potentially leading to engine destruction.

Most affected: Early 2012-2013 models

Estimated cost: £0 (Recall fix)Affects: 2012–2013

Typical symptoms

  • •Rough running
  • •Engine stalling
  • •Catastrophic failure if spring snaps

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Verify the recall has been performed by a Subaru/Toyota dealer
  • ✓Be cautious if the engine was rebuilt poorly during the recall

Clutch Slave Cylinder Leak (Manual Models)

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The concentric slave cylinder (CSC) on manual BRZs can develop leaks over time, leading to a soft or spongy clutch pedal and eventually difficulty engaging gears. This is an increasingly common complaint as first-gen cars age, and fixing it requires gearbox removal.

Most affected: 6-speed manual

Estimated cost: £600–£1,200Affects: 2012–2020Often appears around: 40,000–80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Clutch pedal feels soft or spongy
  • •Difficulty engaging first gear from cold
  • •Visible fluid leak around bellhousing area

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive the car from cold and check clutch bite consistency
  • ✓Inspect around the bellhousing for fluid leaks
  • ✓Ask if the CSC has been upgraded during any clutch replacement

High-Pressure Fuel Pump Chirping

MinorEngine

The direct-injection fuel pump produces a high-pitched chirping or "crickets" sound, especially when using low-octane fuel.

Estimated cost: £0 (Normal characteristic)Affects: 2012–2021Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Rhythmic chirping from engine bay at idle
  • •Noise goes away with high-octane (98/99) fuel

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen at idle when the engine is warm
  • ✓Ask the owner what fuel they use

Battery Drain and Weak OEM Battery

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Like many Subarus, the BRZ is equipped with a relatively weak battery from the factory that can die quickly if not driven often.

Estimated cost: £100–£150Affects: 2012–2023

Typical symptoms

  • •Slow cranking
  • •Flat battery after a week of sitting

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the age and brand of the battery
  • ✓Look for a higher-spec replacement

Buying Tips for the 2012 Subaru BRZ

  • ✓Check the oil level religiously; these engines are sensitive to low oil and can suffer bearing failure if run low.
  • ✓Listen for a "cricket" chirping sound from the engine bay, which is a harmless but annoying fuel pump trait.
  • ✓On 2022+ models, be aware of "RTV" sealant issues in the oil pan which can clog the oil pickup.
2014–2020 Subaru BRZ

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Other Subaru BRZ Year Periods

2012–20132014–202020212022–2023

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