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2014 Subaru BRZ Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2014 Subaru BRZ Report

Overall Score

7.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Engine and Fuel System Concerns: The most frequent complaints center on the engine and fuel system, with some reports indicating potential fire risk and internal engine damage. Thorough inspection of these components is critical.
  • Engaging Driving Dynamics: The BRZ is celebrated for its sharp handling, precise steering, and balanced chassis, offering a pure sports car feel.
  • Excellent Safety Ratings: The vehicle received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, indicating strong performance in crash tests.
  • High TSB Count: A significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest underlying issues that may not have resulted in recalls but point to potential reliability concerns.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2014 Subaru BRZ

The 2014 Subaru BRZ presents a compelling package for driving enthusiasts seeking an affordable rear-wheel-drive sports coupe. Its lightweight construction and balanced chassis deliver sharp handling and an exhilarating driving experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of notable concerns regarding the engine and fuel system. While the BRZ boasts excellent safety ratings, the number of owner complaints, particularly those related to engine performance and potential fire risks, warrants careful consideration and thorough pre-purchase inspection. The vehicle achieves a respectable 24 MPG combined, but the underlying mechanical concerns temper its overall appeal as a used car.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints frequently involve engine performance, including rough idling, stalling, and check engine lights. Catastrophic internal failures like broken valve springs and rocker arms have been reported. Some instances have been linked to potential fire risk originating from the engine bay.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

8
Engine5
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
24
MPG
City
21
MPG
Highway
29
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.6/ 10

Practicality

3.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, small boot, limited door access, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts who prioritize driving dynamics and handling above all else.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a completely trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2014 Subaru BRZ Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2014 Subaru BRZ.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
4
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Coupe
EPA Combined MPG
24

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 5 reports

2. Fuel System

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil (5.4 L / 5.7 qt), Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

3,750 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (7 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2014 Subaru BRZ reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 Subaru BRZ is 9.6/10. Reliability score is 9.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 8.

How practical is the 2014 Subaru BRZ for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, small boot, limited door access, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 2 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 218 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2014 Subaru BRZ?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 Subaru BRZ is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Tuning 4.0/10. Practicality 3.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 Subaru BRZ?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: SAE 0W-20 or 5W-20 Synthetic Engine Oil (5.4 L / 5.7 qt), Oil Filter) at 3,750 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 100,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $6,000+).

What engine is in the 2014 Subaru BRZ?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2014 Subaru BRZ use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Subaru BRZ, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2014 BRZ require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 Subaru BRZ?▾

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 Subaru BRZ?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2014 Subaru BRZ?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Subaru BRZ, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2014 Subaru BRZ?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Subaru BRZ, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2014 Subaru BRZ use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Subaru BRZ, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 Subaru BRZ?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Is the 2014 Subaru BRZ good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 4/10. The 2014 Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive sports car known for its balanced chassis and engaging driving dynamics. Popular platforms: Subaru BRZ, Scion FR-S, Toyota GT86.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2014 Subaru BRZ?▾

Top complaint category: engine (5 reports, 62.5% of complaints).

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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