2015 Subaru BRZ Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Engine seizure is a significant risk for this model, with documented failures occurring at under 80,000 miles.
- Potential oil leaks pose a fire hazard and health concerns due to fumes.
- A high Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) count of 91 indicates potential for numerous minor issues.
- The seat belt system may exhibit issues with locking and retracting on inclines.
2015 Subaru BRZ
The 2015 Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe designed for driving enthusiasts. It pairs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined. While it boasts a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, used shoppers should be aware of its 'Average' reliability verdict. The primary concern revolves around the ENGINE, with reports of critical failures at relatively low mileage and potential oil leaks. A high TSB count also suggests a history of minor issues. Despite no recalls, thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential.
Critical Failure Risk
Oil leaks from the engine can drip onto the exhaust system, creating a significant fire hazard and potentially filling the cabin with fumes.
Early detection can help you avoid a $4,000-$8,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Enthusiasts prioritizing driving dynamics and handling over absolute long-term mechanical certainty.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a completely worry-free daily driver or those unwilling to address potential mechanical issues.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2015 Subaru BRZ Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2015 Subaru BRZ.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- 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 reportedUsage: 2 reports
2. Seats
Usage: 1 reports
First Service Interval
- Replace Engine Oil and Filter (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation
Est. shop cost: $50 - $100
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FAQ
Is the 2015 Subaru BRZ reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2015 Subaru BRZ is 9.6/10. Reliability score is 9.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 3.
How practical is the 2015 Subaru BRZ for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2015 Subaru BRZ?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2015 Subaru BRZ is 8.1/10. Overall score is 8.1/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Tuning 5.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2015 Subaru BRZ?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Replace Engine Oil and Filter (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 6,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 78,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $4,000 • Max: $8,000).
What engine is in the 2015 Subaru BRZ?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2015 Subaru BRZ use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Subaru BRZ, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2015 BRZ require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2015 Subaru BRZ?
EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2015 Subaru BRZ?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2015 Subaru BRZ?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Subaru BRZ, body style is coupe.
What drivetrain does the 2015 Subaru BRZ use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2015 Subaru BRZ, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2015 Subaru BRZ?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.
Is the 2015 Subaru BRZ good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 5/10. The 2015 Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that, while not a dedicated performance badge, offers a solid platform for handling e... Popular platforms: Subaru BRZ, Toyota GT86, Scion FR-S.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2015 Subaru BRZ?
Top complaint category: engine (2 reports, 66.7% of complaints).