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Subaru FA20 Engine - Replacement Cost, Problems & CompatibilityProblems & Compatibility
The Subaru FA20 is a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated boxer engine co-developed with Toyota, featuring D-4S dual injection and a 12.5:1 compression ratio. Powering the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT86 from 2012 to 2021, reconditioned units from £2,800 - a high-revving sports car engine with a dedicated following.
Supply & Fit Available
12-Month Warranty
Nationwide Delivery
100+ Suppliers
Used from
£2,000
Reconditioned from
£2,800
Rebuilt from
£4,500
GB
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Key Specs
Subaru FA20 - Specifications at a Glance
Engine Code
FA20 (also known as 4U-GSE in Toyota terminology)
Fuel
Petrol
Configuration
2.0L naturally aspirated flat-four (Boxer), DOHC 16-valve
Power Output(s)
200 hp (147 kW) at 7,000 rpm
Torque
205 Nm at 6,400-6,600 rpm
Years Produced
2012-2021
UK Models Fitted
2 models - full list in Compatibility below
2025 UK Replacement Requests
[Not in proprietary data - see compatibility demand]
Replaced
- (new engine family)
Replaced By
FA24 (2.4L, second-generation BRZ/GR86)
Most Common Failure
Oil pressure loss / valve spring recall / carbon buildup
Reconditioned Price Range
£2,800-£4,200 supply-only
Vetted UK specialists for FA20 replacements
Minimum 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt options
Fitted To
Which Models Use the FA20-
The FA20 was developed specifically for the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT86 (also sold as the Scion FR-S in North America). It is a joint development between Subaru and Toyota, combining Subaru's boxer engine architecture with Toyota's D-4S fuel injection technology. The turbocharged FA20F/FA20DIT variant was also used in the Subaru Forester XT, Legacy, Levorg and WRX.
| Model | Generation/Chassis | Badge(s) | Years | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Subaru BRZ | ZC (first generation) | BRZ | 2012-2021 | |
| Subaru Toyota GT86 | ZN6 (first generation) | GT86 | 2012-2021 | |
| Subaru Scion FR-S | ZN6 | FR-S | 2012-2016 |
02
Subaru Toyota GT86
03
Subaru Scion FR-S
CROSS-BRAND
FA20 is documented across 3 BMW applications spanning Subaru BRZ, Toyota GT86, Scion FR-S. Registration lookup confirms the exact suffix before quotes are sent.
Not sure which engine your car has?
Not sure which engine your car has- Enter your registration above - we'll confirm your exact FA20 fitment before any quotes are sent.
Prices
Subaru FA20 Engine Replacement Cost (UK)
Condition | Supply Only | Fitted (Independent Specialist) | Typical Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
Used | £2,000-£3,000 | £2,900-£4,000 | 3-6 months |
Reconditioned | £2,800-£4,200 | £3,800-£5,300 | 12-24 months |
Rebuilt | £4,500-£6,500 | £5,500-£7,800 | 12-24 months |
All . Fitted = supply price + labour band below.
Labour Guide
Fitting an FA20 typically takes 10-14 hours at £65-£85/hr (independent Subaru/Toyota specialist) - confirm exact labour when comparing quotes. Timing chain replacement is labour-intensive due to front cover removal and resealing.
Price Factors
What genuinely moves the price for THIS engine: whether the engine is from a BRZ/GT86 (FA20D) or the turbocharged FA20F from a WRX/Forester XT - these are NOT interchangeable without significant changes. Mileage, service history, and whether the valve spring recall has been performed all affect the final price. See our full reconditioned engine cost guide.
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Common Problems
Subaru FA20 Engine Problems - What Actually Fails
Every engine has its weak points. Here are the known issues with the FA20, based on real-world data and verified failure patterns.
Verified issue focus: Oil pressure loss / valve spring recall / carbon buildup.
The FA20 improved over its production run. The valve spring recall affected 2012-2013 models; post-2015 cars are generally considered more sorted. The second-generation BRZ/GR86 (2022+) uses the larger FA24 engine with a revised oil system. The FA20 remains a reliable engine for road use, but track use requires oil system upgrades.
Compare rebuilt FA20 prices with the failures already addressed
Engine Variants
FA20 Variants - Which One Is in Your Car-
INTRO: The FA20 family includes both naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants. The naturally aspirated FA20D (also called 4U-GSE by Toyota) is the engine in the BRZ and GT86. The turbocharged FA20F (also called FA20DIT) is found in the WRX, Forester XT, Legacy and Levorg. These are NOT interchangeable. ### FA20D / 4U-GSE - 2012-2021 (naturally aspirated, BRZ/GT86) - Fitted to: Subaru BRZ (ZC, 2012-2021), Toyota GT86 (ZN6, 2012-2021), Scion FR-S (2012-2016) - Key technical difference: Naturally aspirated, DOHC, 16-valve. Toyota D-4S fuel system combining direct and port injection. Compression ratio: 12.5:1. Bore and stroke: 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm (square). Redline: 7,450 rpm. Power: 200 hp (147 kW) at 7,000 rpm; torque: 205 Nm at 6,400-6,600 rpm. Dual AVCS (Subaru) / Dual VVT-i (Toyota) variable valve timing. Timing chain driven. Weight: 170 kg. Recommended oil: 0W-20. Oil capacity: 6.3 litres. - Sub-code-specific failure note: Oil pressure loss in high-G right-hand turns is the primary concern. Valve spring recall affected 2012-2013 production. Carbon buildup can occur despite D-4S dual injection. - Interchange note: Not interchangeable with FA20F - the turbo variant has different internals, lower compression (10.6:1), different ECU, and different ancillaries. Ensure your replacement matches your engine type. ### FA20F / FA20DIT - 2012-2021 (turbocharged, WRX/Forester XT) - Fitted to: Subaru Forester XT (SJ, 2013-2018), Subaru Legacy (BM/BN, 2012-2019), Subaru Levorg (VM, 2014-2020), Subaru WRX (VA, 2014-2021) - Key technical difference: Turbocharged, DOHC, 16-valve. Direct injection only. Compression ratio: 10.6:1 (lower than FA20D). Twin-scroll turbocharger with intercooler. Power output: 250-300 hp depending on tune. Torque: 350-400 Nm. Recommended oil: 5W-30. Oil capacity: 5.1 litres. Weight: 185 kg. - Sub-code-specific failure note: Timing chain rattle on cold start is more commonly reported. Oil temperature management is a concern under sustained load. Carbon buildup on intake valves. - Interchange note: Not interchangeable with FA20D - compression ratio, internals, turbo, intercooler, ECU, and wiring loom are all different. Only replace with another FA20F.
The engine code is stamped on the top of the engine block, near the bellhousing mating face. On the BRZ/GT86, it's visible from above. The code is also listed on the V5C registration document. For BRZ/GT86 owners: check if your car has had the valve spring recall completed (2012-2013 production). Enter your registration above if you're unsure - we'll confirm your exact FA20 variant before any quotes are sent.
Easily Confused
EJ20
- the 2.0-litre boxer that preceded the FA20 in performance applications. The FA20 replaced the EJ20 in the BRZ/GT86 with a modern design featuring direct injection, higher compression, and better fuel efficiency, but with less low-end torque than the turbocharged EJ20 variants.
Alternative / Next-Gen Code
FA24
- the 2.4-litre naturally aspirated boxer that replaced the FA20 in the second-generation Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 (2022+). More displacement, more torque (250 Nm vs 205 Nm), and a revised oil system addressing the FA20's oil starvation issues.
Confirm the exact FA20 fitment
The engine code is stamped on the top of the engine block, near the bellhousing mating face. On the BRZ/GT86, it's visible from above. The code is also listed on the V5C registration document. For BRZ/GT86 owners: check if your car has had the valve spring recall completed (2012-2013 production). Enter your registration above if you're unsure - we'll confirm your exact FA20 variant before any quotes are sent.
Buying Guide
Buying a Replacement FA20 - What to Choose
Choosing the right replacement route depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and ownership goals. Here's a breakdown of your options.
Used:
A used FA20 from a BRZ/GT86 makes sense if it comes with documented service history, has had the valve spring recall completed (if applicable), and preferably has evidence of a recent oil pressure system check. However, used FA20s are often from cars that have been driven hard - track use without oil system upgrades can lead to bearing wear. A compression test and oil pressure test are essential before purchase. Used FA20F turbo engines should be treated with even more caution - oil starvation and turbo failure are common on modified cars.
Reconditioned:
A proper FA20 recon addresses the known weak points: for FA20D, new bearings, improved oil pickup (to address oil starvation), new timing chain tensioner, and a thorough carbon clean of intake valves. A 12-month warranty is standard. Reconditioned units are the sweet spot for most owners - you get the reliability upgrades without the cost of a full rebuild.
Rebuilt:
A full FA20 rebuild is justified when you own a cherished BRZ/GT86 and want the engine to last another 100,000+ miles - particularly if you track the car. An upgraded rebuild should include forged pistons and rods (especially if you plan to supercharge or turbocharge later), ARP head studs, a baffled oil pan, and an upgraded oil pickup. Budget £4,500-£6,500 for a quality rebuild. For track use, consider adding an oil cooler and Accusump system.
Supply & Fit Line:
All of our vetted UK Subaru and Toyota specialists offer supply-only or full supply-and-fit - nationwide delivery and recovery available, with warranties that cover both parts and labour.
Vehicle Value Note:
The FA20 sits in affordable sports cars - BRZ/GT86 values range from £6,000-£18,000 depending on year, mileage and condition. A reconditioned FA20 at £2,800-£4,200 represents 15-50% of vehicle value - generally viable for most examples. However, for a high-mileage (£5,000-£8,000) early BRZ/GT86, a full rebuild at £6,500 may approach or exceed the vehicle's value. In those cases, evaluate the car's overall condition, rust, and chassis health before committing. A clean, low-mileage example justifies the spend; a tired car may be better broken for parts .
Compare FA20 Engine Prices Now --- **
Related Engines
Engines Related to the Subaru FA20
Explore engines that are closely related to the Subaru FA20, including its predecessor, successor, and key family variants.
Predecessor
EJ20
- the 2.0-litre boxer that preceded the FA20 in performance applications. The FA20 replaced the EJ20 in the BRZ/GT86 with a modern design featuring direct injection, higher compression, and better fuel efficiency, but with less low-end torque than the turbocharged EJ20 variants.
Successor
FA24
- the 2.4-litre naturally aspirated boxer that replaced the FA20 in the second-generation Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 (2022+). More displacement, more torque (250 Nm vs 205 Nm), and a revised oil system addressing the FA20's oil starvation issues.
FAQ
Subaru FA20Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does a Subaru FA20 engine replacement cost-
A reconditioned FA20 supply-only costs £2,800-£4,200, with fitted prices from £3,800-£5,300. Used units start from £2,000 supply-only. Rebuilt engines with upgraded internals cost £4,500-£6,500 supply-only.
- Used units start from £2,000 supply-only.
- Rebuilt engines with upgraded internals cost £4,500-£6,500 supply-only.
Question 2What are the most common FA20 engine problems-
The FA20 suffers from oil pressure loss and bearing failure (especially during track use / high-G corners), a valve spring recall (2012-2013 models), carbon buildup on intake valves, and timing chain rattle on cold starts. Oil system upgrades (baffled pan, improved pickup) cost £500-£1,000. Valve spring recall is free if not already completed. Carbon cleaning costs £300-£600.
- Oil system upgrades (baffled pan, improved pickup) cost £500-£1,000.
- Valve spring recall is free if not already completed.
- Carbon cleaning costs £300-£600.
Question 3Which models use the FA20 engine-
The naturally aspirated FA20D (4U-GSE) is fitted to the Subaru BRZ (2012-2021), Toyota GT86 (2012-2021), and Scion FR-S (2012-2016). The turbocharged FA20F/FA20DIT is fitted to the Subaru Forester XT, Legacy, Levorg, and WRX. These are completely different engines and are NOT interchangeable.
- The turbocharged FA20F/FA20DIT is fitted to the Subaru Forester XT, Legacy, Levorg, and WRX.
- These are completely different engines and are NOT interchangeable.
Question 4Should I buy a used or reconditioned FA20-
A reconditioned FA20 is the safer choice - it includes improved bearings, an oil pickup upgrade (to address oil starvation), and a 12-month warranty. Used FA20s are only recommended if they have documented service history and the valve spring recall completed. Track-used cars without oil system upgrades are high-risk purchases.
- Used FA20s are only recommended if they have documented service history and the valve spring recall completed.
- Track-used cars without oil system upgrades are high-risk purchases.
Question 5What's the difference between FA20 and FA20F-
The FA20D is the naturally aspirated version (BRZ/GT86) with 12.5:1 compression and 200 hp. The FA20F is the turbocharged version (WRX/Forester XT) with 10.6:1 compression, a twin-scroll turbo, and 250-300 hp. They are NOT interchangeable - different internals, ECU, wiring, and ancillaries. Only buy an engine that matches your model.
- They are NOT interchangeable - different internals, ECU, wiring, and ancillaries.
- Only buy an engine that matches your model.
Question 6How long does an FA20 engine last-
With regular maintenance (oil changes every 5k-6k miles using 0W-20 for NA or 5W-30 for turbo), an FA20 can exceed 150,000 miles. Oil starvation is the main limit on track-used cars. Carbon buildup requires periodic cleaning. The valve spring recall is critical - ensure it's completed.
- Oil starvation is the main limit on track-used cars.
- Carbon buildup requires periodic cleaning.
- The valve spring recall is critical - ensure it's completed.
Compare Subaru FA20 Engine Prices Today
Get free, no-obligation FA20 engine quotes tailored to your exact variant (FA20D or FA20F) and model. Our registration lookup confirms fitment before any quotes are sent, so you only hear from specialists who can actually supply the right unit. With reconditioned FA20 units from around £2,800, comparing takes two minutes and could save four figures.
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Minimum 12-Month Warranty
Minimum 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt options
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