2013 Subaru BRZ Short Block: Boost Performance & Longevity

Hey there, fellow gearheads and Subaru BRZ enthusiasts! If you're rocking a 2013 Subaru BRZ (or its twin, the FR-S/GT86), you know what a fantastic driver's car it is. That rev-happy FA20 engine, the balanced chassis, the pure joy of driving – it's an experience unlike any other. But let's be real, guys, even the best engines have their limits, and sometimes, you might find yourself looking at the heart of your car: the short block. Whether you're chasing more power, recovering from an unfortunate incident, or simply looking to refresh your beloved ride, understanding the 2013 Subaru BRZ short block is absolutely crucial. This article is your ultimate guide, diving deep into everything you need to know about this essential component, from why it's so important to your upgrade options and how to make it last.

Why Your 2013 Subaru BRZ Short Block Matters So Much

When we talk about the engine of your 2013 Subaru BRZ, we're often talking about its main components, and the short block is undeniably the foundation. Think of it as the core, the very heart that keeps everything pumping. Essentially, the short block consists of the engine block, crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons. It's where the magic happens – where air and fuel are compressed and ignited, turning into the rotational force that drives your wheels. For the FA20 engine in your 2013 BRZ, this part is engineered for a high-revving, naturally aspirated experience. However, even with all its brilliance, the stock FA20 short block, particularly in earlier models, has some well-documented quirks, especially when pushed beyond its original design parameters. Many owners, particularly those who love to track their cars or those who've added forced induction (like a turbocharger or supercharger), have encountered issues with rod bearings or oiling system limitations. This isn't to say every FA20 will fail, not at all! It's more about understanding its strengths and potential weaknesses. A healthy, robust 2013 Subaru BRZ short block is the cornerstone of reliability and performance. If this component isn't in top shape, you're looking at potential catastrophic engine failure, which is every car owner's worst nightmare. Investing in a quality short block, whether it's an OEM replacement or an aftermarket upgrade, directly translates to peace of mind and the ability to truly enjoy your BRZ without constantly worrying about what's going on under the hood. It’s not just about fixing a problem; it’s about unlocking the full potential of your vehicle and ensuring its longevity for years to come. We're talking about preventing issues before they even start, especially if you're planning any power modifications. The integrity of your short block directly impacts everything from fuel efficiency to horsepower output. Without a solid foundation, any attempts to increase power will be futile and potentially dangerous for your engine's health. This core component endures immense stress, heat, and friction every time you drive, so its condition is paramount. Keeping an eye on its health and knowing when to intervene can save you a significant amount of money and heartache in the long run. So, when considering the overall health and future of your 2013 Subaru BRZ, the importance of its short block simply cannot be overstated.

When to Consider Replacing Your 2013 Subaru BRZ Short Block

Alright, so we've established that the 2013 Subaru BRZ short block is super important. But how do you know when it's time to actually consider replacing it? This isn't a decision you take lightly, guys, as it's a significant investment. There are a few tell-tale signs and scenarios that might lead you down this path. First off, let's talk about the dreaded symptoms of a failing short block. Are you hearing a persistent knocking or ticking sound coming from your engine, especially when it's cold or under load? This could be a sign of worn rod bearings, a common issue for some FA20s, particularly those that have seen hard use or inadequate oil changes. Another major red flag is excessive oil consumption. Now, some oil consumption is normal for these engines, but if you're constantly topping off your oil and seeing smoke from the exhaust, it could indicate worn piston rings or other internal issues within the 2013 Subaru BRZ short block. A significant loss of power, accompanied by misfires or rough idling, can also point to internal engine problems that a short block replacement might resolve. Beyond direct failure, there's the preventative approach, which many performance enthusiasts opt for. If you're planning on adding serious power to your BRZ – think turbocharging or supercharging – the stock short block, while stout, might not be sufficient for long-term reliability at significantly higher power levels. Many choose to upgrade to a forged internal short block before installing forced induction to prevent future failures. This foresight can save you a ton of headaches and money down the road. Furthermore, high mileage can also be a factor. While a well-maintained FA20 can last a long time, engines with very high mileage (well over 150,000 miles) that have seen hard use might be approaching the end of their lifespan, making a refresh a smart choice. Finally, there's the unfortunate event of catastrophic engine failure, like a thrown rod. In these cases, a short block replacement is not just a consideration but a necessity. The cost versus benefit analysis is also crucial here. Sometimes, repairing a heavily damaged engine component by component can quickly add up, making a complete short block replacement a more economical and reliable solution in the long run. By understanding these indicators and planning proactively, you can make an informed decision about when it's the right time to give your 2013 Subaru BRZ a new lease on life with a fresh short block, ensuring it continues to deliver that thrilling driving experience we all love. Don't wait until it's too late; listening to your engine and addressing potential issues early can be a game-changer for your car's future.

Exploring 2013 Subaru BRZ Short Block Options: OEM vs. Aftermarket

Alright, so you've decided it's time for a new 2013 Subaru BRZ short block. Awesome! Now comes the big question: should you go with an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) short block or dive into the world of aftermarket performance options? Each path has its own set of pros and cons, and the best choice really depends on your budget, your driving style, and your future plans for your beloved BRZ. Let's break it down, because this is where the fun (and sometimes the tough decisions) begins, guys.

OEM Subaru BRZ Short Block

Going with an OEM Subaru BRZ short block means you're getting exactly what came in your car from the factory. The biggest pro here is undoubtedly reliability and guaranteed fitment. You know it's going to fit perfectly, and it's designed to meet Subaru's stringent quality standards. If your car is completely stock, or only has minor bolt-on modifications and you're not planning on adding significant power, an OEM short block is a fantastic, straightforward choice. It brings your engine back to its original specifications, which is great for daily driving and light performance use. Another benefit is often a warranty from Subaru, giving you some peace of mind. However, there are cons. The main one is that you're getting the exact same components that were in your original engine. This means that if there were any inherent weaknesses in the stock design (like certain rod bearing clearances for high-revving track use, or if you're planning forced induction), those weaknesses will still be present. The cost can also be a significant factor, as OEM parts can sometimes be quite pricey. But for those seeking original factory performance and a direct, hassle-free replacement, the OEM 2013 Subaru BRZ short block is a solid, dependable option.

Aftermarket/Performance Subaru BRZ Short Block

Now, if you're looking to push the boundaries of your 2013 Subaru BRZ – whether that's with a turbo, supercharger, or just some serious track time – an aftermarket or performance short block is probably what you're after. The pros here are huge. These short blocks often come with upgraded components like forged pistons, stronger connecting rods, and sometimes even a revised crankshaft or improved oiling passages. Brands like IAG Performance, Prime Motoring, and various engine builders specialize in FA20 performance short blocks, offering different stages of builds to suit various power goals. These upgrades make the engine much more resilient to the stresses of forced induction and high RPMs, significantly increasing its power handling capabilities and longevity under extreme conditions. You can tailor the build to your specific needs, choosing piston compression ratios suitable for boost, and selecting stronger rods that won't give up under pressure. This path allows you to truly future-proof your BRZ for serious power. However, the cons include a higher price tag compared to OEM, and you need to be very careful about choosing a reputable builder and ensuring compatibility with your existing engine components (like cylinder heads, oil pan, etc.). There might also be no direct manufacturer warranty on the engine block itself, and specific break-in procedures might be required. But for guys who are serious about performance and want to unlock the full potential of their 2013 Subaru BRZ, an aftermarket short block is often the only way to go, offering a robust foundation for building a truly epic engine that can handle anything you throw at it.

The Installation Process: What to Expect When Replacing Your 2013 Subaru BRZ Short Block

Okay, so you've made the big decision and sourced your shiny new 2013 Subaru BRZ short block. Congrats! But before you start dreaming of those sweet, rev-happy miles, there's the small matter of installation. And let me tell you, guys, replacing a short block isn't like changing your oil or swapping out a set of spark plugs. This is a major undertaking that requires expertise, specialized tools, and a whole lot of patience. This isn't a DIY job for the faint of heart, or for someone who hasn't tackled major engine work before. In most cases, you'll definitely want to entrust this job to a reputable performance shop or a Subaru specialist. Here's a general idea of what the process involves so you know what to expect.

First, the engine needs to be removed from the vehicle. This means disconnecting all the wiring harnesses, fuel lines, coolant hoses, exhaust, and transmission. It's a pretty involved process, and getting the FA20 out of the BRZ's engine bay can be a bit of a tight squeeze. Once the engine is out, the teardown begins. The cylinder heads, oil pan, timing cover, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, and all associated components need to be carefully removed from the old short block. These components are then inspected for wear and damage. It's a prime opportunity to replace things like water pumps, oil pumps, and any worn out sensors or gaskets that are easily accessible at this stage. You might even consider having your cylinder heads inspected and refreshed while they're off the car, to ensure optimal performance with your new 2013 Subaru BRZ short block. Then, the new short block is prepped. This involves transferring the cylinder heads and other components onto the new block, ensuring all new gaskets, seals, and bolts (especially head bolts/studs) are used according to torque specifications. Precision is absolutely key here to prevent leaks or future failures. Once everything is meticulously assembled, the engine is carefully re-installed back into the BRZ. This is another critical step, ensuring all connections are properly re-made and nothing is missed. Finally, fluids are added, and the engine is primed before the first start-up. After the initial start, there's a crucial break-in procedure. This usually involves a specific mileage and RPM limit to allow the piston rings to properly seat with the cylinder walls. Skipping or rushing this step can severely impact the longevity and performance of your new 2013 Subaru BRZ short block. In terms of associated costs, beyond the short block itself, you're looking at significant labor charges (often 20+ hours), a full gasket kit, new fluids (oil, coolant), and potentially other