What are the most common problems with the 2020 Subaru BRZ?

Prioritize inspection of **suspension and powertrain mounting components** for noise and wear, especially on vehicles over 40,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2020 Subaru BRZ have?

The 2020 Subaru BRZ currently has 0 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2020 Subaru BRZ a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Prioritize inspection of **suspension and powertrain mounting components** for noise and wear, especially on vehicles over 40,000 miles. Check **windshield** for cracks or signs of weakness, as minor impacts have reportedly caused significant damage. While there are no recalls, the documented suspension/powertrain issue represents a moderate repair cost concern. The BRZ delivers a rewarding driving experience, but its practicality is limited by its compact size and focus on performance. Fuel costs are moderate, with a combined EPA rating of 24 MPG. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2020 Subaru BRZ?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2020 Subaru BRZ.

2020 Subaru BRZ Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Prioritize inspection of suspension and powertrain mounting components for noise and wear, especially on vehicles over 40,000 miles.
Check windshield for cracks or signs of weakness, as minor impacts have reportedly caused significant damage.
While there are no recalls, the documented suspension/powertrain issue represents a moderate repair cost concern.
The BRZ delivers a rewarding driving experience, but its practicality is limited by its compact size and focus on performance.

See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $

Overview

2020 Subaru BRZ

The 2020 Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe celebrated for its agile handling and driver-focused experience. While it boasts a strong public reliability score, used car shoppers should be aware of specific ownership concerns. The vehicle has zero recalls, but four complaints were logged, primarily concerning visibility/wipers, powertrain, engine, and suspension. A notable issue involves popping noises from the front wheel area, requiring replacement of top hats and motor mounts, typically appearing between 20,000 and 45,000 miles. Windshield durability has also been cited as a concern. Its fuel economy is respectable for its class, achieving a combined 24 MPG.

Critical Failure Risk

Popping or knocking noises from the front wheel area, often linked to wear in suspension top hats and motor mounts. This issue typically appears between 20,000 and 45,650 miles.

Early detection can help you avoid a $700-$1,400 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Visibility/Wiper1

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking an affordable, RWD sports coupe for spirited driving and track days.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers needing ample passenger or cargo space, or those prioritizing absolute long-term mechanical simplicity with minimal potential for costly repairs.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2020 Subaru BRZ Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Premium
Seating Capacity: 4
Transmission: Manual/Standard
Drivetrain: RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Coupe
EPA Combined MPG: 24

CarFocal account required

See the full 2020 Subaru BRZ buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Visibility

Most reported

Usage: 1 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 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

Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

Is the 2020 Subaru BRZ reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Subaru BRZ is 9.4/10. Reliability score is 9.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 4.

How practical is the 2020 Subaru BRZ for daily use?

Practicality score is 3.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 4.

What is the overall score for the 2020 Subaru BRZ?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Subaru BRZ is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Tuning 6.0/10. Practicality 3.8/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Subaru BRZ?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Suspension Top Hats (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $600).

What engine is in the 2020 Subaru BRZ?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2020 Subaru BRZ use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru BRZ, transmission is Manual/Standard. The paired drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2020 BRZ require Premium gas?

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Subaru BRZ?

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Subaru BRZ?

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2020 Subaru BRZ?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru BRZ, seating capacity is 4.

What body style is the 2020 Subaru BRZ?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru BRZ, body style is coupe.

What drivetrain does the 2020 Subaru BRZ use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru BRZ, drivetrain is RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual/Standard.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Subaru BRZ?

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

Is the 2020 Subaru BRZ good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 6/10. The 2020 Subaru BRZ is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that, while not a powerhouse from the factory, serves as an excellent pl... Popular platforms: Subaru BRZ.

What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2020 Subaru BRZ?

Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (1 reports, 25% of complaints).