CriticalAffects 2013-2020

    Subaru BRZ Fuel Pump Seizure & Denso Recall Guide

    The Subaru BRZ is part of a massive global recall involving defective Denso fuel pumps that can swell and seize, causing sudden engine stalling while driving.

    Reviewed by SubaruReview Editorial Team · Last reviewed 2026-05-15 · Editorial standards

    Repair cost
    $0–$850
    Repairs are covered 100% by Subaru under Recall WRG-21/NHTSA 21V-388. Out-of-pocket costs apply only if performed outside of recall parameters.
    DIY difficulty
    4 / 5
    Severity
    Critical
    Engine, safety, or drivability — fix before driving
    Affected
    2013-2020
    Low-pressure fuel pump assembly, Fuel pump impeller, Fuel tank unit

    This is one of several documented BRZ problems we track, and it fits inside the broader Engine Guides guide. If you're weighing repair against replacement, cross-check the Subaru repair-cost database and any open NHTSA recalls on your VIN before booking a shop.

    What goes wrong

    The low-pressure fuel pump located inside the gas tank fails. Because the FA20 engine relies on this pump to feed the high-pressure system, the engine will starve for fuel, leading to an immediate stall. If this occurs at high speeds, power steering and braking assist may be diminished, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Symptoms to watch for

    • Engine won't start or long crank times
    • Engine stumbling or hesitation under acceleration
    • Check Engine Light (CEL) with codes P0087 or P0192
    • Abnormal noise from the rear seat area (fuel tank)
    • Sudden loss of power while cruising at highway speeds

    Root cause

    Low-density fuel pump impellers manufactured by Denso were exposed to solvent drying for excessive periods, leading to surface cracking and eventual deformation/swelling, causing the pump to seize.

    Buy time with these

    • Avoid driving with a very low fuel tank to keep the pump cool.
    • If the engine hesitates, pull over to a safe location immediately.
    • Check your VIN on the NHTSA or Subaru website to confirm recall status.

    Permanent fix

    1. Replacement of the low-pressure fuel pump motor with an improved part (Part No: 42022CA010 or updated equivalent).

    Related recalls / TSBs

    WRG-2121V-38819V-407

    FAQ

    What causes subaru brz fuel pump seizure & denso recall guide?

    Low-density fuel pump impellers manufactured by Denso were exposed to solvent drying for excessive periods, leading to surface cracking and eventual deformation/swelling, causing the pump to seize.

    How much does it cost to fix?

    National average $0–$850. Repairs are covered 100% by Subaru under Recall WRG-21/NHTSA 21V-388. Out-of-pocket costs apply only if performed outside of recall parameters.

    Is this a DIY repair?

    Difficulty 4/5. Replacement of the low-pressure fuel pump motor with an improved part (Part No: 42022CA010 or updated equivalent).

    What are the symptoms?

    Engine won't start or long crank times; Engine stumbling or hesitation under acceleration; Check Engine Light (CEL) with codes P0087 or P0192; Abnormal noise from the rear seat area (fuel tank); Sudden loss of power while cruising at highway speeds

    Sources

    People also ask

    How much does it cost to fix Subaru BRZ Fuel Pump Seizure & Denso Recall Guide?

    Owners typically pay $0–$850 at an independent Subaru shop, parts and labor included. Compare full itemized quotes in the Subaru repair-cost database.

    Can I fix this as a DIY repair?

    We rate it 4/5 on our DIY scale. Most owners come out ahead with an independent Subaru shop; read labor-hour benchmarks in the repair-costs hub before you commit tools and a weekend.

    Where does this fit in the bigger picture of Subaru reliability?

    It's part of our Engine Guides cluster, which collects every article covering the same system as this failure.

    Ready to buy or refresh your current build?

    Dig into the Problems Database to plan your next maintenance sprint, or browse every model hub for buyer's guides, generation breakdowns, and known-issue lists.