The Gr86 Performance Pack, particularly its Brembo brakes, has generated considerable interest among car enthusiasts. Many owners of earlier GR86 and BRZ models are wondering about the possibility of retrofitting these performance brakes to their vehicles. This article breaks down what you need to know about the GR86 Performance Pack and retrofitting its components, especially the sought-after Brembo brakes.

Understanding the GR86 Performance Pack Brembo Brakes

The Brembo brakes featured in the GR86 Performance Pack are not entirely new to the Toyota/Subaru sports car family. In fact, they are the same Brembo brakes that were offered on previous models like the 2017+ Subaru BRZ Performance Package and the 2020 Toyota GT86. The primary difference is the color; the latest iteration comes in red. This is crucial information for those looking to upgrade, as it clarifies that the technology is proven and parts availability might be influenced by factory installations on new vehicles.

Close-up of Brembo Performance Pack brakes installed on a 2022 Subaru BRZ, showcasing the red calipers and rotors.

Retrofitting Brembo Brakes to Older GR86 and BRZ Models

For owners of the 2022-2023 GR86 models, retrofitting the Brembo brakes is technically feasible. Crucially, unlike the 2022-2023 BRZ models which utilized aluminum front knuckles, the GR86 retained iron knuckles. This distinction is important because the 2024 BRZ Performance Pack switched to iron knuckles specifically to accommodate a vibration damper needed for the Brembo setup, which doesn’t fit with the aluminum knuckle. GR86 owners, therefore, bypass this knuckle compatibility issue, simplifying the retrofit process.

However, official dealership-warrantied retrofits for the 2022-2023 BRZ are unlikely due to the aluminum knuckle issue. While the situation for Toyota and the GR86 might offer slightly more flexibility, a factory-supported retrofit kit is not yet officially available for earlier models.

Warranty and OEM Considerations

While a formal retrofit kit may be pending, installing the Brembo components yourself or through a dealer doesn’t necessarily void your warranty, nor does it mean the setup isn’t considered “OEM” in terms of parts. It is recommended to consult with your local Toyota or Subaru dealership’s service department. Inquire about the implications for your warranty if you were to install the Brembo Performance Pack components. Specifically, ask if installing the “Brembo package” would be covered under warranty, or if purchasing and installing the components would maintain warranty coverage.

A potential warranty concern could arise if installing Brembos on a BRZ with aluminum knuckles leads to issues due to the missing vibration bracket. Dealerships might argue that modifications not adhering to factory specifications could void certain warranty aspects if related problems occur.

Parts List for OEM Brembo Brake Retrofit

For those aiming for a completely OEM-style Brembo brake upgrade, mirroring the 2024 Performance Pack specifications (minus the bronze caliper color), all necessary parts are currently available. Below is a parts list, primarily with Subaru part numbers, useful for both BRZ and GR86 owners (note: GR86 owners can omit the iron knuckle purchase).

Subaru Parts for Brembo Brake Retrofit:

1. Iron Knuckle L and R: Part #s 28313 28313A (2024 MY spec, same as Gen1 BRZ/FR-S. GR86 owners likely do not need these.)
2. Tie Bar (vibration bracket): Part # 26261 x2
3. Brembo Calipers Front L/R: Part #s 26292CA060, 26292CA070
4. Brembo Calipers Rear L/R: Part #s 26692CA060, 26692CA070
5. Dust Shields Front L/R: Part #s 26290CA030, 26290CA020
6. Dust Shields Rear L/R: Part #s 26704VA000, 26704VA010
7. Caliper Bolts: Part # M120131 (x2 per wheel)
8. Rotors: (Different size than non-Brembo rotors – specify Brembo compatible rotors)
9. Pads: (Brembo compatible pads)

Toyota Front Brembo Caliper Part Numbers:

• SU003-07197

• SU003-07198

This parts list provides a comprehensive guide for undertaking an OEM-style Brembo brake retrofit. Remember to confirm rotor and pad specifications are compatible with the Brembo calipers when sourcing those components.

Conclusion

Upgrading to the GR86 Performance Pack Brembo brakes is a desirable modification for many owners. While official retrofit kits and warranty implications require careful consideration and consultation with dealerships, the availability of parts makes this upgrade achievable. GR86 owners have a slightly simpler path due to the iron knuckle already in place. By understanding the components and potential warranty aspects, enthusiasts can make informed decisions about enhancing their vehicle’s braking performance with OEM quality Brembo parts.