🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

BRZ

Generation:

First Generation (ZC6)

Chassis Code:

ZC6

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Entry-level sports coupe, targeting enthusiasts and those seeking an engaging driving experience at an accessible price point.

Key Competitors:

Scion FR-S (jointly developed), Mazda MX-5 Miata, Nissan 370Z, Ford Mustang (entry-level trims).

Driving Dynamics:

Rear-wheel drive, lightweight chassis, low center of gravity, balanced handling, driver-focused cockpit.

Value Proposition:

Affordable sports car performance and handling, enabling DIY maintenance and customization.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

2012, 2013, 2014

Regions Covered:

North America, Japan (assumed based on model availability)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 2500-3500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, potentially with search functionality)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

2.0L FA20D Boxer Engine: Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Emissions Control

Transmission:

Manual Transmission (6-speed TY756) and Automatic Transmission (4-speed A4RA1): Clutch System, Gearbox Overhaul, Shift Linkage, Transmission Control Module (TCM) for Automatic

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) System: Driveshaft, Differential, Axles, Wheel Bearings

Suspension:

Front MacPherson Strut and Rear Double Wishbone Suspension: Component Replacement, Alignment Specifications, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings

Brakes:

Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs: Brake System Hydraulic Control, ABS, EBD, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Bleeding Procedures

Steering:

Electric Power Steering (EPS): Steering Column, Rack and Pinion, EPS Motor and Control Unit

Electrical:

Full Electrical System: Wiring Diagrams, Fuse and Relay Locations, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Lighting, Horn, Power Windows, Mirrors, Audio System

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk Lid, Bumpers, Glass Replacement, Body Repair Techniques

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC): System Operation, Component Replacement (Compressor, Evaporator, Condenser), Refrigerant Handling

Safety Systems:

Airbag System, Seatbelt Pre-tensioners, SRS Control Unit

Maintenance:

Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Belt Inspection and Replacement, Tire Rotation, Brake Pad Service

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical System Diagnostics, Engine Performance Issues

Repair:

Engine Component Overhaul, Transmission Rebuilds, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair

Diagnostics:

OBD-II Diagnostics, Specific Component Testing Procedures, Wiring Harness Testing

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely OCR scanned for text searchability

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

FA20D

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed)

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1998 cc)

Horsepower:

200 hp @ 7000 rpm

Torque:

151 lb-ft @ 6400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Toyota D-4S Direct and Port Injection

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

12.5:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 Valves per Cylinder, Variable Valve Timing (Dual AVCS)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (TY756)

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (with paddle shifters and sport mode)

Manual Gear Ratios:

1st: 3.646, 2nd: 2.171, 3rd: 1.519, 4th: 1.175, 5th: 1.000, 6th: 0.799, Reverse: 3.474 (Ratios may vary slightly by region/model year)

Automatic Gear Ratios:

1st: 3.538, 2nd: 2.360, 3rd: 1.531, 4th: 1.000, 5th: 0.793, 6th: 0.685 (Note: Provided automatic is often a 6-speed in enthusiast forums, but factory manual lists a 4-speed for early models. Clarification needed from specific manual.)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Extra-S GL-5 75W-90 or equivalent SAE 75W-90 (API GL-5) synthetic gear oil.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

164.2 inches (4170 mm)

Width:

69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Height:

50.6 inches (1285 mm)

Wheelbase:

101.2 inches (2570 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2750-2800 lbs (1247-1270 kg) depending on transmission and trim.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5 Stars (for applicable model years)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Good (for applicable model years)

Traction Control:

Standard

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard (VSC Sports mode available)

Anti Lock Brakes:

Standard

Airbags:

Front, Side, Curtain Airbags

Seatbelts:

3-Point ELR Front Seatbelts with Pre-tensioners and Force Limiters

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Base models feature a standard AM/FM/CD stereo with auxiliary input and USB. Higher trims may have touchscreens with navigation, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration (e.g., Aha Radio, Pandora).

Key Features:

Standard ABS, VSC, Traction Control. Limited availability of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in this generation.

Bluetooth:

Available on higher trims for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Usb Aux Inputs:

Standard on most trims for audio playback.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000 miles (for iridium-tipped plugs).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendation (DOT 4 fluid).

Engine Oil Capacity:

5.4 US quarts (5.1 liters) with filter change.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

0W-20 Full Synthetic.

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters).

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life antifreeze.

Oil Consumption:

Some early FA20 engines experienced higher-than-average oil consumption, often related to piston ring seating. The manual will detail oil level checking procedures and potential causes.

Valve Springs:

Reports of valve spring failures in some engines, particularly under high-RPM, track-use conditions. The manual covers diagnosis and replacement.

Transmission Issues:

Occasional reports of clutch or transmission synchro wear with hard use. Manual provides detailed inspection and repair steps.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Performance Heritage:

Subaru has a long history of producing engaging, driver-oriented vehicles, notably its rally-bred WRX and WRX STI models, which influenced the BRZ's chassis tuning and focus on handling.

Joint Development:

The Subaru BRZ was jointly developed with Toyota, which markets its version as the Scion FR-S (later Toyota 86/GT86). This collaboration allowed for shared engineering and manufacturing efficiencies.

Manufacturing Plant:

Gunma Manufacturing Plant, Japan (by Subaru Corporation).

First Generation Production:

2012-2020

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

Not a winner, but often cited as a contender for affordable performance. (Note: Specific awards vary by year and publication.)

Automotive Journalist Acclaim:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, steering feel, and driver engagement.