Installing a BRZ Strut Bar: Improving Handling, Rigidity, and Performance

Improving Handling and Rigidity With a BRZ Strut Bar

A Subaru BRZ strut bar, also known as a suspension brace, is an aftermarket performance upgrade that can substantially improve the handling characteristics and structural rigidity of the BRZ sports car.

What is a Strut Bar?

A strut bar is essentially a tubular metal brace that is mounted spanning the gap between the front strut towers in the engine bay. Strut bars resist chassis flex and increase structural rigidity by connecting these two suspension mounting points.

This additional bracing allows the suspension on each side to work more independently rather than the forces from one side influencing the other. The result is improved handling, better steering feel and response, and increased performance during aggressive driving.

Benefits of Adding a Strut Bar to a BRZ

There are several key benefits to installing an aftermarket strut bar on a Subaru BRZ:

• Reduces chassis flex - This is the primary function of a strut bar. Connecting the strut towers resists chassis twist and flex which allows the suspension to work more effectively.
• Improves steering precision and feel - With less chassis movement, the steering system can operate more precisely leading to enhanced road feel and response.
• Increases front end rigidity - The added bracing helps stabilize the front of the car for better turn-in, transitions, and high speed stability.
• Enhances suspension performance - Lessening chassis flex allows the tuned suspension on the BRZ to operate as designed leading to improved grip and better weight transfer properties.
• Easy, bolt-on install - Most strut bars take less than an hour to install with basic hand tools. No permanent modifications are needed for fitment.

Considerations When Selecting a BRZ Strut Bar

Those looking to add a strut bar to their Subaru BRZ have a lot of options to consider from various manufacturers. Some key factors when choosing a strut bar include:

• Construction Material - Most are made from steel or aluminum. Steel is extremely strong but weighs more while aluminum is lighter yet still rigid. Goal is maximizing strength-to-weight ratio.
• Adjustability - Some allow for tweaking mounting locations and angles to dial-in fitment and performance.
• Design and Shape - Different shapes and tube sizes impact overall rigidity. Consider aerodynamic effects as well.
• Brand Reputation and Quality - Established brands generally offer better construction, fitment, and durability.
• Price - As with most mods, more money often means higher quality and performance.

Installing a Subaru BRZ Strut Bar

Putting in an aftermarket strut bar on a BRZ is a relatively straightforward bolt-on process that can usually be accomplished in well under an hour using basic hand tools.

Difficulty

On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most complex, installing a BRZ strut bar ranks about a 3 in terms of difficulty. The ease will vary a little depending on the specific brand and design chosen but overall it is an beginner-friendly mod.

Installation Overview

The process consists of removing some components to access the strut tower area, test fitting the bar, tightening it down securely, then reinstalling everything. Having a helper makes things a bit easier as well.

Here is an overview of the installation process:

1. Remove engine cover if equipped to access strut towers
2. Unclip washer fluid tubing mounts and position line out of way
3. Remove windshield wiper assembly by removing nut and detaching linkage
4. Unbolt and remove strut tower bar if factory equipped
5. Test fit new strut bar and align as needed for best fit
6. Tighten down all mounting bolts to spec
7. Reinstall wiper assembly, washer line, and engine cover
8. Double check alignment and torque on all hardware

Some strut bars also require temporary removal of the brake master cylinder brace and/or power steering reservoir. Follow all directions from manufacturer.

Installation Tips

To make the installation process smoother, here are some useful tips:

• Review all instructions before starting
• Have an assortment of metric tools available
• Carefully organize and label any hardware or bolts removed
• Be prepared to make minor adjustments during fitment
• Have a partner help align and support the bar when tightening
• Triple check all hardware is tightened securely

Taking the time to properly install the strut bar will ensure maximum performance and safety. Always reach out to the manufacturer if any issues come up during the process.

How Much Does Adding a Strut Bar Help Performance?

One common question from BRZ owners considering this mod is exactly how much improvement is noticeable when driving after adding an aftermarket strut bar? The benefits can be significant, but also somewhat subjective based on driving style and capabilities.

Performance Enhancements

Most BRZ owners report feeling substantial improvements in how securely the front wheels turn-in to corners, how flat the car holds during transitions and high-G cornering, the reduction in overall chassis movement in bumpy corners and under hard braking, a tighter and more responsive steering feel, and increased front end grip and traction at the limit.

Some drivers have recorded modest lap time decreases up around half a second on a tight technical circuit. But the biggest benefits may come in faster turn-in, better rotation and transitions, and the ability to apply throttle sooner and harder coming out of corners.

Subjectivity of Improvements

The feeling and quantitative improvements from adding a strut bar really come down to three variables - the specific performance capabilities of the car and suspension setup, the skill level and driving aggression of the owner, and their subjective sensitivity to small changes in handling dynamics and chassis movement.

In simpler terms, very advanced drivers pushing their BRZ 10/10ths are most likely to experience, appreciate, and utilize the upgrades from a strut bar. Whereas moderately paced street cruising may make the enhancement harder to discern.

But nearly all BRZ owners can benefit from the added performance potential and sharper response - even if they don't fully utilize them on public roads!

FAQs

What are the tools needed to install a BRZ strut bar?

Most BRZ strut bars can be installed with basic hand tools like metric socket sets, wrenches, ratchets, and hex keys. Always check your specific strut bar's installation instructions to confirm the required tools.

Do I need any special mechanical skills to install a strut bar?

No, installing a BRZ strut bar is a straightforward bolt-on process that is relatively easy for anyone comfortable with basic tools and tasks like changing oil. No special mechanical knowledge is required.

Will installing a strut bar void my BRZ's factory warranty?

Adding an aftermarket strut bar does not void your BRZ's original factory powertrain and bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage. Just keep your original parts to reinstall if any related warranty work is needed.

Can I install a strut bar myself or do I need a shop?

DIY in-home installation is totally feasible for most BRZ owners. All you need are ramps/jack stands, basic tools, and about an hour. Or you can pay an experienced performance shop for about 2-3 hours of labor if you prefer.