Are you looking to enhance the braking performance of your Toyota GR86 or Subaru BRZ? Upgrading to Brembo Car Parts is a popular and effective way to achieve superior stopping power and a more aggressive look. The burning question for many owners, especially those with 2022-2023 models, revolves around compatibility and the specifics of installing these high-performance brake components. Let’s break down what you need to know about Brembo brake upgrades for your GR86 or BRZ.
Brembo brakes installed on a BRZ, showcasing performance car parts upgrade
Understanding Brembo Brakes for GR86/BRZ: What’s the Deal?
It’s crucial to clear up some common misconceptions. The Brembo brakes featured on the Performance Package (PP) for the 2024 Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are not entirely new. In fact, they are the same Brembo car parts that were available on the 2017+ BRZ PP and the 2020 GT86. The primary difference you’ll notice is the color – the 2024 models sport a different hue compared to their predecessors. This means that the performance and specifications of these Brembo brake components are well-established and respected within the car community.
The delay in parts availability often discussed is mainly due to production and supply chain factors, as these Brembo systems are being actively installed on new vehicles rolling off the factory line.
The Knuckle Conundrum: Aluminum vs. Iron and its Impact on Brembo Car Parts Installation
A significant point of discussion, particularly for BRZ owners, is the change in front knuckles. For the 2024 BRZ Performance Package, Subaru transitioned from aluminum to iron knuckles. This change was necessary because the vibration damper, designed to work with the Brembo brake system, is not compatible with the aluminum knuckle. Interestingly, the Toyota GR86 has always utilized iron knuckles, so GR86 owners don’t face this specific issue.
This difference in knuckles has implications for warranty and official retrofitting, especially for 2022-2023 BRZ models that came with aluminum knuckles. Dealerships are unlikely to offer a “warrantied” retrofit for these models due to the knuckle incompatibility and the absence of the vibration bracket when installing Brembo car parts on aluminum knuckles.
However, this doesn’t prevent you from installing Brembo brakes yourself or having a third party do it. Many owners successfully install these OEM Brembo car parts without warranty concerns, understanding that it might be considered an aftermarket modification by some dealerships if issues arise related to the brake system.
DIY Brembo Upgrade: Essential Car Parts and Part Numbers
If you’re considering a DIY Brembo brake upgrade to achieve that performance package feel, here’s a comprehensive list of the Brembo car parts you’ll need. These are Subaru part numbers, which are generally readily available. For Toyota part numbers, especially for calipers, you may find resources online, though Subaru’s parts website is often considered more user-friendly.
For GR86 owners, you can skip purchasing the iron knuckles as your vehicle already comes with them. BRZ owners seeking a fully OEM setup should include iron knuckles in their parts list.
Here’s your checklist for a complete Brembo car parts upgrade:
- Iron Knuckle L and R (for BRZ, same as Gen 1): Part numbers 28313 and 28313A. (GR86 can skip this)
- Tie Bar (Vibration Bracket): Part number 26261 (Quantity: 2)
- Front Calipers L/R: Part numbers 26292CA060 and 26292CA070 (Brembo Red Color)
- Rear Calipers L/R: Part numbers 26692CA060 and 26692CA070 (Brembo Red Color)
- Front Dust Shields L/R: Part numbers 26290CA030 and 26290CA020
- Rear Dust Shields L/R: Part numbers 26704VA000 and 26704VA010
- Caliper Bolts: Part number M120131 (Quantity: 2 per wheel, so 8 total)
- Rotors: Brembo brake upgrades require larger rotors than non-Brembo systems. Choose rotors compatible with Brembo calipers.
- Pads: Select brake pads designed for Brembo calipers, considering your driving style (street, performance, track).
Remember, this parts list mirrors the OEM Brembo package, except for the color of the calipers (red instead of bronze) and any potential suspension upgrades that come with the full performance package.
Dealer Installation and Warranty Considerations for Brembo Car Parts
Before embarking on a Brembo car parts upgrade, it’s wise to discuss warranty implications with your local Toyota or Subaru dealership. Inquire with a service technician about installing Brembo brakes on your 2022-2023 GR86 or BRZ. Specifically, ask if such an installation, especially using OEM Brembo car parts, would be covered under warranty.
While dealerships might be hesitant to officially endorse or warranty Brembo upgrades on models not originally equipped with them, open communication can provide clarity. Understanding their stance will help you make an informed decision about your brake upgrade path.
Conclusion: Brembo Car Parts – Elevating Your GR86/BRZ Braking Performance
Upgrading to Brembo car parts is a fantastic way to significantly improve the braking capabilities and aesthetics of your Toyota GR86 or Subaru BRZ. While there are nuances regarding compatibility and warranty, especially for earlier BRZ models with aluminum knuckles, a DIY installation using OEM Brembo components is entirely achievable. By understanding the required parts and potential dealer considerations, you can confidently enhance your vehicle’s performance and enjoy the benefits of superior Brembo braking technology. Consider exploring the world of Brembo car parts to take your driving experience to the next level.
