2023 Subaru BRZ: Common Issues & What To Watch For

Hey guys, let's talk about the 2023 Subaru BRZ! This car is a total blast to drive, seriously, it's a driver's car through and through with its amazing handling and rear-wheel-drive fun. But, like any ride, it's not totally immune to a few quirks. We're going to dive deep into some of the potential 2023 BRZ issues that owners have been reporting. Remember, these aren't deal-breakers for everyone, and many BRZs run like a dream, but it's always good to be in the know before you buy or if you're already cruising in one. We'll cover everything from minor annoyances to things you might want to keep an eye on, so grab a coffee and let's get into it! We want you to have all the info to make sure your BRZ experience is as epic as it should be.

Engine and Drivetrain Quirks to Watch For

So, when it comes to the engine and drivetrain of the 2023 BRZ, Subaru really stepped up its game with the 2.4-liter boxer engine. It's got a solid amount of power for a car in this class, giving you that snappy acceleration you crave. However, a few folks have mentioned some engine noise concerns. Now, this isn't usually a sign of something seriously wrong, but more of a characteristic of the boxer engine. Some owners describe a bit of a "rattling" or "ticking" sound, especially on cold starts or at idle. It’s often compared to the normal operation sounds of this type of engine, but if you're used to a smoother, quieter engine, it might catch your attention. Subaru generally states these noises are within normal operating parameters. Another point that sometimes pops up is related to the clutch and transmission. The manual transmission is a joy for enthusiasts, offering precise shifts. However, a small number of owners have reported occasional difficulty engaging gears, particularly first and reverse, when the car is cold. This usually smooths out as the car warms up. It’s not widespread, but it’s something to be aware of during your test drive or if you notice it happening. For the automatic transmission, which is also an option, most reviews are positive, but like any automatic, ensuring smooth shifts and no hesitation is key. Regarding the drivetrain itself, the rear-wheel-drive setup is what makes the BRZ so much fun. Most owners are thrilled with its performance. However, there have been isolated reports of drivetrain whine at certain speeds. Again, this is not a common complaint, and it's often subtle. If you do notice a persistent or loud whine, it's definitely worth getting checked out by a dealer, as it could indicate an issue with the differential or driveshaft. The overall reliability of the 2.4L engine is generally considered very good, but these minor acoustic or engagement points are the ones that tend to surface in owner discussions. It’s always a good idea to listen closely to your car, especially when it’s new or when you’re considering buying one used. Pay attention to any unusual sounds or feelings during acceleration, braking, and gear changes. These initial observations can help you catch potential issues early on.

Infotainment and Electrical Gremlins

Alright, let's chat about the infotainment and electrical systems in the 2023 BRZ. Subaru has given the BRZ a pretty modern tech suite, with a decent-sized touchscreen and smartphone integration like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For the most part, these systems work well and add to the driving experience. However, as with many modern cars loaded with tech, there can be a few electrical gremlins that pop up. One of the more frequently mentioned, though still not super common, is the infotainment system freezing or becoming unresponsive. This can be frustrating, especially when you're trying to adjust the climate control or navigate. Usually, a simple restart of the car or a system reset can fix it. Software updates from Subaru are also aimed at ironing out these kinks. Another thing some users have encountered is Bluetooth connectivity issues. Sometimes, a paired phone might disconnect unexpectedly, or the system might struggle to reconnect. Again, troubleshooting steps like forgetting the device and re-pairing it, or ensuring both the car's software and your phone's OS are up-to-date, often do the trick. Beyond the infotainment, there have been a few scattered reports of minor electrical glitches. These could include things like a dashboard warning light flickering briefly or a sensor acting up temporarily. For instance, some owners have noted the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) being a bit sensitive, sometimes throwing a false warning. These kinds of electrical quirks are often software-related and tend to be resolved through dealer-performed updates. It's also worth mentioning that some users have experienced issues with keyless entry or push-button start not always being as responsive as expected. This might be related to the key fob battery, signal interference, or a glitch in the system itself. While these electrical issues aren't usually critical safety concerns, they can certainly detract from the overall user experience. If you're experiencing persistent problems with the infotainment system, connectivity, or any electrical components, it's always best to have your Subaru dealer take a look. They have the diagnostic tools to pinpoint the problem and can often perform software updates or replace faulty components under warranty. Keeping your car's software updated is a key way to prevent many of these electronic annoyances, so make sure to ask your dealer about available updates during your service appointments. It’s the little things that can sometimes be the most annoying, but with a little patience and dealer support, most of these can be sorted out.

Body and Interior Considerations

Moving on to the body and interior of the 2023 BRZ, this is where the car really shines for its sporty aesthetic and driver-focused cockpit. The design is sleek, and the interior, while not luxurious, is functional and has a nice sporty feel. However, there are a couple of points that potential buyers or current owners might want to note. First off, let's talk about the paint quality. Some owners have expressed that the paint seems a bit on the thinner side, making it more susceptible to chipping and scratching from road debris. This is not unique to the BRZ; many sports cars have paint finishes that prioritize aesthetics over ultimate durability. If you plan on driving your BRZ in areas with a lot of gravel roads or if you're particularly concerned about maintaining a pristine finish, investing in a paint protection film (PPF) or a good ceramic coating early on is highly recommended. It's a bit of an investment, but it can save you headaches and money down the line by protecting that beautiful paint job. Inside the cabin, while the seats are supportive and great for spirited driving, some users have noted that the rear seats are quite small. This is pretty typical for a 2+2 sports coupe, so if you plan on regularly hauling adult passengers in the back, this might not be the car for you. They're best suited for occasional use or for smaller passengers. Another interior point sometimes raised is about road noise. Because the BRZ is a lightweight, performance-oriented car, Subaru has made some trade-offs to keep the weight down and enhance the driving dynamics. This can mean that more road noise, tire noise, and engine noise (though the boxer rumble is nice!) can find their way into the cabin compared to a more comfort-focused sedan. While many enthusiasts enjoy the raw, connected feel this provides, others might find it a bit intrusive on longer highway journeys. Adding some sound deadening material to areas like the doors, floor, and trunk can help mitigate this if it becomes an issue for you. Lastly, while not a common complaint, some owners have mentioned the infotainment screen being a bit of a fingerprint magnet. This is a minor aesthetic point, but it’s something you might notice if you’re particular about keeping your interior spotless. Overall, the body and interior are generally well-received for their intended purpose. The focus is on sportiness and driver engagement, and most people find it delivers on that. Just be mindful of the paint's susceptibility to damage and the compact nature of the rear seating if those are key factors for your needs. These are mostly minor points that can be addressed with aftermarket solutions or careful consideration of how you use the vehicle.

Suspension and Handling Niggles

When it comes to the suspension and handling of the 2023 BRZ, this is arguably the car's strongest suit. The chassis is incredibly balanced, the steering is sharp, and the car feels glued to the road, especially on twisty sections. It’s a pure joy for anyone who loves to drive. However, even in areas where the car excels, there can be minor points that some drivers might notice or wish were different. One aspect that occasionally comes up is road feel transmitted through the steering wheel. While most drivers love the direct connection it provides, a very small number of owners have reported feeling some unwanted vibrations or harshness through the steering, particularly over rough pavement or when hitting small potholes. This isn't a sign of a steering system failure, but more likely a characteristic of the stiff suspension and low-profile tires designed for maximum grip. If you're coming from a car with a much softer suspension, you might find the BRZ a bit more