2016 Subaru BRZ Problems: 3 Known Issues
2016 model year · 2,150+ owner reports · Updated October 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 2,150+ owner reports, the 2016 Subaru BRZ has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is FA20 Valve Spring Recall - Engine Stalling Risk ($0-$0 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Throwout Bearing Noise and Premature Failure with 950 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 3 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls2 recalls
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
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.
VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Legacy, Outback, and BRZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, a software issue may cause the audio display system to not initialize, resulting in the camera display remaining blank. If this occurs, the rearview image will not display while backing up the vehicle. As a result, the vehicles fail to comply with requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Subaru BRZ problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 2,150+ owner reports, the 2016 Subaru BRZ has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: FA20 Valve Spring Recall - Engine Stalling Risk, Throwout Bearing Noise and Premature Failure, FA20 Engine Oil Consumption During Spirited Driving. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Subaru BRZ reliable?
The 2016 Subaru BRZ has 3 known issues documented across 2,150+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: FA20 Valve Spring Recall - Engine Stalling Risk. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Subaru BRZ problems?
Repair costs for known Subaru BRZ issues range from $0 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, FA20 Valve Spring Recall - Engine Stalling Risk, typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2013-2016 Subaru BRZ FA20 Valve Spring Recall - Engine Stalling Risk?
The FA20 engine in 2013-2016 BRZs was subject to a safety recall (WQG-66 / NHTSA 18V-845) for defective valve springs that can fracture due to insufficient hardness. A broken valve spring causes a cylinder misfire and can lead to engine stalling. In worst cases, the broken spring… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2021 Subaru BRZ Throwout Bearing Noise and Premature Failure?
Manual transmission BRZs commonly develop throwout bearing (release bearing) noise, typically a chirping, squealing, or grinding sound when the clutch pedal is pressed or released. The noise is most apparent in cold weather and often appears between 20,000-60,000 miles. While the… Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2013-2021 Subaru BRZ FA20 Engine Oil Consumption During Spirited Driving?
The FA20 engine in the BRZ consumes oil at elevated rates during high-RPM driving, spirited canyon runs, and track use. The engine design with direct injection and high compression (12.5:1) combined with the oil-fed variable valve timing system means oil consumption increases sig… Repairs typically run $50-$500. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.