Did the valve spring recall fix the rocker problem on the 86 and BRZ?Updated 19 minutes ago

No. This is one of the most common misconceptions we hear.

The recall on early (2012 to 2013) Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ models replaced valve springs that could fracture. It didn't change how the rockers are held in place.

Toyota and Subaru have revised the pivot design three times since, but they all work the same way. The rockers are still free-floating on:

• Every FA engine (2012 on), including the FA24 in the 2022+ GR86 and BRZ
• Every FB engine (2010 on)
• The FA20 DIT turbo engine

So yes, newer cars need Rocker Retainers too. One customer's 2020 BRZ dropped a rocker, and they'd assumed the problem was limited to early models.

Does correct valve clearance or stiffer valve springs solve it? They reduce the chance of a problem but don't remove it, because the rocker still isn't retained. Stiffer springs can also add unnecessary valvetrain wear.