The 2nd-gen BRZ is a significant improvement — 228 hp (up from 205 hp), better low-end torque, improved suspension tuning. No head gasket issues that plagued the FA20 (the FA24 is more robust). The main used buyer risks are modification history (wheel spacers, coilovers, aggressive track use) and clutch wear on manual transmission. Lightly modified or stock 2nd-gen BRZ/GR86 is one of the best sports cars available used.
Items to check
9
Open recalls
0
NHTSA complaints
45
Top concern
Minimal
Powertrain
FA24 2.4L — no FA20 head gasket issues
Low Risk
The new FA24 eliminated the FA20 head gasket concern. Reliable naturally-aspirated engine.
Cold-start idle smooth. Check coolant level and color — no white exhaust expected.
Est. cost: Routine maintenanceSource: Subaru FA24 reliability data
6MT clutch wear
Monitor
Sports cars get driven hard. Check clutch engagement height — very low = worn.
Test clutch engagement point. Should engage in middle 1/3 of pedal travel.
Est. cost: $800–$1,400 clutch replacementSource: AutoVetting editorial
Suspension & Modification
Coilovers / alignment from track use
Monitor
Sports car buyers should inspect for aggressive lowering and tire wear patterns indicating track or autocross use.
Est. cost: $500–$2,000 suspension restorationSource: AutoVetting editorial
Documentation
Service records + modification history
Monitor
For a sports car, both maintenance history and modification history matter.
Request all records. Ask about any track or autocross participation.
Est. cost: n/aSource: AutoVetting editorial
What the VIN tells you
Every 2nd-gen BRZ (ZD8, 2022+) uses the same engine — the 2.4L FA24 naturally-aspirated boxer four (228 hp) — so there is no engine-family ambiguity to decode, and on Subarus the 8th VIN digit encodes the restraint/airbag system rather than an engine letter anyway. The fork that actually matters on a used BRZ is the transmission: a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed Aisin automatic. The manual is the enthusiast's choice and the one most likely to have been tracked — check the clutch engagement point and look for autocross tire and brake wear; the automatic is smoother for commuting and typically less abused. The FA24 also retired the FA20's head-gasket reputation, so coolant condition is a routine check rather than a red flag. The most useful VIN steps here are confirming model year at the 10th digit (N = 2022, P = 2023) and running the full VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Decode the full VIN at autovetting.com/decode to confirm transmission and build.
Independent pre-purchase inspection — we arrange it and walk you through the findings.
Send us the listing and we reply within 1 business day. Nothing due until we confirm a mechanic and a time. Piloting in Phoenix; other US metros by arrangement.
The Vetting Report: this VIN’s full recall status, known-failure cost ranges, negotiation talking points, and inspection priorities — delivered within 24 hours.