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Opening Section
When a Subaru BRZ begins to emit a high‑pitched whine or a metallic clatter while driving, most owners suspect a steering issue. The shop that handled the recent replacement noted that the noise was unmistakably linked to the steering dampers, the small rubber or silicone components that absorb vibration from the steering column. The dampers are hidden inside the steering column, so a visual inspection of the exterior steering wheel does not reveal the problem.
1. The Problem: A Disturbing Sound
When a Subaru BRZ begins to emit a high‑pitched whine or a metallic clatter while driving, most owners suspect a steering issue. The shop that handled the recent replacement noted that the noise was unmistakably linked to the steering dampers, the small rubber or silicone components that absorb vibration from the steering column. The dampers are hidden inside the steering column, so a visual inspection of the exterior steering wheel does not reveal the problem.
2. Diagnosis Inside the Steering Column
To confirm the source, the technician removed the steering column cover and inspected the dampers. The shop’s report described how the dampers were worn and had lost their ability to dampen the vibrations. The technician also checked the steering motor and the surrounding housing for any signs of wear or damage. The diagnosis was clear: the dampers had failed and needed replacement.
3. The Replacement Process
The shop’s step‑by‑step procedure began with the removal of the steering column cover. Once the cover was off, the old dampers were extracted from the steering column housing. The technician then installed new dampers, which were identified by the part numbers 45254‑28040 and 45253‑28130. After the new dampers were in place, the steering column cover was re‑installed and the steering wheel was re‑attached. The entire operation took roughly twelve minutes of labor, a relatively short time for a shop that specializes in BRZ maintenance.
4. Parts and Labor
The new dampers are manufactured by a reputable supplier and are designed to fit the BRZ’s steering column precisely. The shop’s report highlighted that the dampers are a small but essential component, and that the replacement process is straightforward once the column cover is removed. The technician used a set of specialized tools to ensure a proper fit and to avoid damage to the steering column housing.
5. Cost Considerations
While the shop’s service report did not disclose the exact cost of the replacement, it is possible to estimate the expense based on typical market rates in Japan. Parts for a BRZ steering damper generally range from a few thousand yen to over ten thousand yen, depending on the brand and quality. Labor costs for a shop that specializes in BRZ maintenance can vary, but a twelve‑minute job would normally fall within the standard hourly rate for a skilled technician. The overall cost for a complete replacement, therefore, is likely to be in the range of several tens of thousands of yen, though the exact figure will depend on the shop’s pricing structure and any additional services performed.
Closing Section
Replacing the steering dampers on a Subaru BRZ is a relatively quick and straightforward task for a skilled technician. The shop’s detailed report demonstrates that the process involves removing the steering column cover, extracting the worn dampers, installing new ones, and re‑assembling the column. Although the exact cost was not disclosed, the parts and labor involved suggest a moderate expense that is well worth the improved steering feel and the elimination of the annoying noise. Owners who notice similar symptoms should consider a professional inspection to confirm whether the dampers are the culprit.