2022 Subaru Brz Safety Report

2022 Subaru BRZ shows low complaint volume but faces serious engine sealant issues and a recall for inoperative turn signals.

10Complaints
1Recalls
55/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Engine (5)Exterior Lighting (3)Wheels,Service Brakes (1)Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2022 Subaru Brz

The 2022 Subaru BRZ presents a mixed safety picture based on the available NHTSA data. With only 10 total complaints, 0 crashes, 0 fires, and 0 injuries reported, the vehicle's incident rate appears low. However, the nature of the complaints highlights two significant concerns. The most frequent complaint component is the ENGINE, accounting for 5 out of 10 complaints, primarily related to excess RTV sealant potentially causing oil starvation and premature engine failure. This is a high-severity issue that could lead to catastrophic mechanical failure. Another prominent issue is EXTERIOR LIGHTING, with 3 complaints, specifically concerning intermittently inoperative rear turn signals. This problem is directly addressed by a recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 22V469000) for certain 2022 BRZ and Toyota GR86 vehicles, acknowledging the increased risk of a crash due to other drivers not being notified of turning. While the recall aims to mitigate this, the underlying defect was present at launch. NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for the 2022 Subaru BRZ (Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover are all N/A), which means there's no independent government assessment of its crashworthiness. This lack of data makes it difficult to fully evaluate its passive safety performance. The low complaint volume is positive, but the severity of the reported engine and lighting issues, despite the recall, warrants attention for potential buyers.

Reliability Score

The 2022 Subaru Brz receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2022 Subaru Brz

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2022 Subaru Brz:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Excess Rtv Sealant In Engine
Excess RTV sealant from the oil pan can enter the engine oil, clog the oil pickup tube filter, and lead to oil starvation and potential catastrophic engine failure.
High Common 500-5500 miles
Inoperative Rear Turn Signals
Rear turn signals may intermittently become inoperative, especially when the sun is at the rear of the vehicle, increasing crash risk. Subject to recall 22V469000.
High Common unknown miles
Loose Wheel Bolts
One complaint mentions wheel bolts loosening, causing catastrophic damage to the wheel and brake components, potentially related to a hub bolt recall.
High Rare unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2022 Subaru Brz:

Engine 50% of complaints

The most common issue involves excess RTV sealant in the engine, leading to oil starvation and potential engine failure, accounting for 5 out of 10 complaints.

Exterior Lighting 30% of complaints

Intermittently inoperative rear turn signals, particularly in certain lighting conditions, are a significant concern and are subject to a recall.

Wheels, Service Brakes 10% of complaints

One complaint reported loose wheel bolts causing damage to the wheel and brake components.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Subaru Brz

Is the 2022 Subaru BRZ safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2022 Subaru BRZ has a low number of overall complaints (10 total) with no reported crashes, fires, or injuries. However, there are serious concerns regarding engine reliability due to excess RTV sealant and a recall for intermittently inoperative rear turn signals, which is a safety hazard. NHTSA crash test ratings are not available, so its crashworthiness is unassessed.

What are common problems with the 2022 Subaru BRZ?

The most reported issues for the 2022 Subaru BRZ are related to the ENGINE (50% of complaints), specifically excess RTV sealant causing oil starvation, and EXTERIOR LIGHTING (30% of complaints), concerning intermittently inoperative rear turn signals, which is also subject to a recall (22V469000).

Has the 2022 Subaru BRZ been recalled?

Yes, the 2022 Subaru BRZ has been subject to one recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 22V469000) concerning the EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL, where rear turn signals may intermittently become inoperative, increasing the risk of a crash.

Are there engine problems with the 2022 Subaru BRZ?

Yes, 5 out of 10 complaints for the 2022 Subaru BRZ are related to the ENGINE. The primary concern is excess RTV sealant used during manufacturing getting into the oil system, potentially clogging the oil pickup tube and leading to oil starvation and premature engine failure.

What is the reliability score for the 2022 Subaru BRZ?

Given the low complaint volume but the high severity of the engine issues and the safety recall for lighting, the reliability score is estimated at 55/100. While the number of incidents is low, the potential for catastrophic engine failure and a safety recall for critical lighting components are significant concerns.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Prospective buyers should be aware of the potential for serious engine issues due to RTV sealant and ensure the recall for the rear turn signals has been addressed. Due to the lack of NHTSA crash test ratings, its crashworthiness is unverified.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2022 Subaru Brz

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2022 Subaru Brz. The data includes 10 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.