2013 Subaru BRZ 16-Inch Wheel Cover: A Buyer's Guide for the Base Model
This guide covers the specific wheel cover for the 2013 Subaru BRZ equipped with 16-inch factory steel wheels, focusing on common issues, replacement, and how to buy a good used part.
- This wheel cover fits ONLY the 16-inch factory steel wheels on the 2013 BRZ base model; it will not fit 17-inch or any alloy wheels.
- When buying a used cover, the most important check is to inspect all plastic retaining clips on the back for cracks or damage.
- A used OEM cover is often a better choice than a new aftermarket one due to superior plastic quality and more precise fitment.
- Installation is a very simple DIY task that takes less than 5 minutes and requires only a screwdriver.
Symptoms of a Bad or Missing Wheel Cover
Failure symptoms for a wheel cover are almost always visual or audible. Since the part is not structural, a damaged or missing cover will not affect vehicle performance or safety.
- Missing Cover: The most obvious symptom is the wheel cover being gone entirely, exposing the black steel wheel underneath. This is common after hitting a pothole or curb.
- Rattling or Clicking Noises: If one or more of the plastic retaining clips on the back of the cover breaks, the cover can become loose. This will often produce a rattling, clicking, or tapping sound as the wheel rotates, especially at low speeds. The sound may come and go as the loose section makes intermittent contact with the wheel.
- Visible Damage: Cracks, deep scuffs from curb impacts, or a peeling or faded finish are clear signs of a failing wheel cover. Cracks can compromise the mounting integrity, leading to the cover eventually falling off.
Compatibility Warning: This full-face wheel cover is designed exclusively for the 16-inch factory steel wheels that came standard on the 2013 Subaru BRZ Premium (base) model. It will not fit any factory or aftermarket alloy wheels, including the more common 17-inch alloy wheels found on the BRZ Limited trim.
Buying a Used 2013 BRZ Wheel Cover
Since a new OEM wheel cover can be costly for a single piece of plastic, buying a used one is a very popular and practical option. However, there are key things to inspect to ensure you get a good part.
Inspection Checklist:
- Check All Retaining Clips: This is the most critical inspection point. Flip the cover over and carefully examine every plastic clip around the perimeter. Look for any that are cracked, broken off, or show white stress marks. A single broken clip can cause a rattle or lead to the cover falling off.
- Inspect the Metal Retaining Ring: The steel wire ring that sits in a channel on the back adds tension to the clips. Ensure the ring is present and not excessively rusted or bent out of shape.
- Examine the Face for Cracks: Look for hairline cracks on the front of the cover, especially radiating from the lug nut holes or the outer edge. A small crack can grow from road vibrations and eventually cause a piece to break off.
- Verify It's a Full Cover, Not a Center Cap: The 17-inch alloy wheels use a small center cap that only covers the lug nuts. Ensure you are buying the 16-inch full wheel cover that covers the entire face of the wheel.
Why Used OEM is Often Better Than New Aftermarket
For a part like a wheel cover, a used OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part is often a superior choice to a cheap, new aftermarket one. The original Subaru part is made from a more durable, flexible plastic that resists cracking better than the brittle plastic used in many aftermarket options. The fitment of the OEM clips is also precise, ensuring it snaps on securely, while some universal aftermarket covers can have a loose or improper fit.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
There are no recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Subaru or the NHTSA related to the wheel covers on the 2013 Subaru BRZ. Any issues, such as covers falling off or rattling, are considered normal wear and tear from road impacts or age and are not due to a manufacturing defect.
Cost Comparison
Pricing for a single 16-inch wheel cover can vary significantly. Aftermarket options are typically sold in sets of four.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (per cover) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $60 - $80 | Part number is not consistently listed in online catalogs, but this is a typical price for a single OEM cover. |
| New Aftermarket | $10 - $20 (sold in sets of 4 for $40-$60) | Widely available from auto parts stores and online retailers. Quality and fit can vary. |
| Used OEM | $25 - $45 | Availability can be limited. Check online marketplaces and salvage yards. |
Installation Guide
Replacing a wheel cover is a simple task that requires no special tools and can be done in minutes.
- Difficulty: 1/5 (Beginner)
- Estimated Time: 5 minutes
- Tools Needed: Flathead screwdriver, cloth or rag.
Step-by-Step Replacement:
- Removal: Wrap the tip of a flathead screwdriver with a cloth to prevent scratching the wheel. Find a sturdy spot along the edge of the wheel cover, often near a spoke, and gently pry outwards. The cover should pop off.
- Preparation: Before installing the new cover, ensure its metal retaining ring is properly seated in the clips on the back.
- Alignment: Locate the valve stem on your wheel. Find the corresponding notch or cutout on the new wheel cover. Align the cutout on the cover with the wheel's valve stem.
- Installation: Press the cover onto the wheel, starting at the valve stem area. Work your way around the cover, giving it firm taps with the palm of your hand or a rubber mallet over the clip locations to snap it into place. You will hear it click as the clips engage.
- Final Check: Gently pull on the edges of the cover to ensure it is seated securely and does not feel loose.
Pro Tip: When installing, use firm, open-palm strikes directly over the clip locations. Avoid hitting the center of the spokes, as this can crack the plastic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will this wheel cover fit my 17-inch BRZ wheels?
No. This full wheel cover is specifically for the 16-inch steel wheels on the base model. The 17-inch wheels are alloy and use a small, separate center cap (Part No. 28821CA010 or 28821CA011).
Is it safe to drive with a missing wheel cover?
Yes. A wheel cover is a cosmetic part. Driving without one is perfectly safe and will not affect the performance or handling of your vehicle. It will only expose the less attractive steel wheel underneath.
Why did my wheel cover fall off?
The most common reasons are impacts from potholes or curbs, which can dislodge the cover or break the retaining clips. Over time, the plastic clips can also become brittle from age and temperature cycles, losing their grip.
Can I just glue a rattling wheel cover back on?
This is not recommended. Adhesives are unlikely to hold up to the heat, moisture, and forces experienced by a wheel. The proper solution for a rattling cover is to replace it with one that has all its mounting clips intact.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 28811CA000 (Incorrect, for Steering Knuckle) 28811CA010 (Incorrect, for Steering Knuckle)
Size: 16 inches Material: Plastic Fitment: For OEM 16-inch steel wheels only
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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