2014 Subaru BRZ Short Shifter Guide

Alright guys, let's talk about upgrading your 2014 Subaru BRZ short shifter! If you're anything like me, you love the feel of a crisp, precise gear change. It just makes driving so much more engaging, right? The stock shifter on the BRZ is... well, it's okay. But for those of us who crave that extra bit of sporty connection to our cars, a short shifter is one of the most satisfying and relatively easy mods you can do. We're talking about reducing the throw between gears, making shifts quicker and more direct. It’s not just about speed, though; it’s about the feel. That satisfying clunk as you slide into gear, knowing you’ve nailed it. It transforms the driving experience, especially if you're hitting the track, autocrossing, or just enjoying a spirited drive on your favorite backroads.

So, what exactly is a short shifter, and why should you even consider one for your 2014 Subaru BRZ? At its core, a short shifter is a replacement for your car's factory shift mechanism. It works by altering the pivot point or the length of the lever arm, effectively reducing the distance you need to move the gear stick to select the next gear. Think of it like using a shorter lever to open a heavy door – it requires more force in a smaller arc, but the result is a more immediate and direct engagement. For the BRZ, this means significantly less travel between gears. Instead of that long, almost lazy motion of the stock shifter, you get a short, sharp, and precise movement. This not only feels fantastic, but it can also lead to slightly faster shifts. While it might not shave tenths off your 0-60 time, in competitive driving situations like autocross or track days, every little bit counts. More importantly, it drastically improves the tactile feedback. You feel more connected to the transmission, and each gear change becomes a deliberate, satisfying action rather than a vague suggestion. It’s a mod that truly enhances the driver’s connection to the machine, making the already fun BRZ even more engaging to drive. It's one of those upgrades that makes you smile every time you shift gears.

Why a Short Shifter for Your 2014 Subaru BRZ?

Now, let's dive into why you'd want to slap a 2014 Subaru BRZ short shifter into your ride. The primary reason, as we touched on, is the reduced shift throw. The factory shifter often has a rather long and somewhat vague throw. This means you're moving the shifter quite a distance to get into the next gear. A short shifter shortens this travel significantly, sometimes by 30-50%. This makes shifts feel much more direct, crisp, and precise. It's like the difference between stirring your coffee with a long spoon and a short one – the short one gives you more control and a quicker action. For performance driving, whether it's hitting the track, participating in autocross events, or just enjoying a spirited drive, quicker and more precise shifts can make a noticeable difference. You can get into the next gear faster, which can be crucial in competitive scenarios. But honestly, even for daily driving, the improved feel is a massive upgrade. It just makes the car feel sportier and more responsive.

Another huge benefit is the improved driving feel and engagement. The stock shifter can sometimes feel a bit rubbery or imprecise. A good quality short shifter, often combined with upgraded bushings, tightens things up considerably. You get a more mechanical, direct connection to the gearbox. Each shift feels more solid, more deliberate. It removes that slight mushiness and replaces it with a satisfying thunk or click as you slot into gear. This enhanced tactile feedback makes the driving experience much more involving and enjoyable. It's the kind of mod that reminds you why you bought a rear-wheel-drive sports car in the first place – for the pure, unadulterated driving pleasure. It’s a relatively inexpensive modification that delivers a huge bang for your buck in terms of driver satisfaction. You’ll find yourself wanting to shift more often just for the sake of it!

Furthermore, a short shifter can sometimes lead to quicker gear changes. While the actual time it takes for the synchronizers to do their job remains the same, the reduction in lever travel means your hand moves less distance. This translates to a faster physical action of selecting the gear. In racing or competitive events, this slight edge can contribute to faster lap times or better performance in timed runs. It’s all about minimizing the time spent not accelerating. Even if you’re not a competitive driver, the feeling of executing a lightning-fast shift is undeniably cool and adds to the overall sporty character of the BRZ. It’s about making the car feel more like a true performance machine, not just a stylish coupe. It makes the manual transmission feel like the high-performance tool it's meant to be.

Finally, for many enthusiasts, the aesthetic and customization aspect is also a draw. While the shifter itself isn't usually visible unless you remove the center console trim, the act of shifting feels so much better. Some short shifter kits also come with different shift knob options, allowing you to further personalize the look and feel of your interior. Plus, it’s a modification that signals you’re serious about driving and performance. It’s a badge of honor, in a way, that you’ve taken the time to fine-tune the driving experience of your 2014 Subaru BRZ. It’s a testament to your passion for the car and the joy of driving a manual transmission. It's a way to make your BRZ truly yours and enhance the parts of the driving experience that matter most to enthusiasts.

Choosing the Right Short Shifter for Your 2014 Subaru BRZ

Okay, so you’re convinced you need a 2014 Subaru BRZ short shifter. Awesome! But hold on a sec, guys, there are a few things to consider before you pull the trigger. Not all short shifters are created equal, and picking the wrong one can lead to frustration, a not-so-great feel, or even damage. We want that perfect, satisfying click-clack, not a clunky mess, right? The first major consideration is brand and quality. There are several reputable manufacturers out there that specialize in performance parts for the BRZ/FRS/GT86 platform. Brands like Perrin, Kartboy, Raceseng, and Mishimoto are generally well-regarded. Do your research! Read reviews, watch YouTube videos of installations and people using them, and check out forums dedicated to the BRZ. Look for shifters made from high-quality materials, like stainless steel or billet aluminum, and those that are known for their durability and precise engineering. A cheap, poorly made shifter might reduce the throw, but it could also introduce slop, rattle, or wear out quickly, ultimately costing you more in the long run. Investing in a quality piece from a trusted brand is definitely the way to go for that premium feel.

Next up, let's talk about shift knob compatibility and thread pitch. Most aftermarket short shifters will retain the factory thread pitch (usually M10x1.25 for the BRZ), but it's always wise to confirm. Many people choose to pair their short shifter with an aftermarket shift knob for an even more personalized feel and look. Consider the weight and material of the shift knob. A heavier knob can sometimes help smooth out shifts by adding momentum, while a lighter one might feel more direct. Also, think about the height and shape of the knob. Do you prefer something spherical, an offset design, or a classic T-handle? Ensure your chosen shift knob is compatible with the shifter's thread pitch and that it sits comfortably in your hand. Some kits come with a knob, others don't, so factor that into your decision and budget. It’s all about creating that perfect synergy between your hand, the shifter, and the transmission.

Another crucial factor is the type of installation and complexity. Some short shifters are designed as a direct bolt-in replacement for the entire shifter assembly, while others might only replace a specific component, like the shift arm or the pivot mechanism. Generally, a full replacement kit tends to offer the most dramatic improvement in feel and throw reduction. Installation can range from fairly simple (requiring access from inside the car, under the center console) to more involved (requiring dropping the exhaust and driveshaft to access the transmission mount). Most DIYers with basic tools and some mechanical aptitude can handle most short shifter installations. However, if you're not comfortable getting under your car or dealing with potentially tricky parts, factor in the cost of professional installation. It's always better to have it done right than to risk damaging something.

Finally, consider bushings and other supporting modifications. Many high-quality short shifter kits will either include or recommend upgrading the shifter bushings. The stock rubber bushings can be quite soft and contribute to that vague, sloppy feeling. Replacing them with stiffer polyurethane or even solid metal bushings will dramatically improve shifter precision and reduce unwanted movement. Some enthusiasts also opt for a transmission mount insert or a full transmission mount upgrade, which further solidifies the drivetrain and reduces drivetrain slop. While a short shifter alone is a great mod, combining it with upgraded bushings and potentially a transmission mount will give you the ultimate in shifter feel and responsiveness for your 2014 Subaru BRZ short shifter setup. Think of it as a system – upgrading one part enhances the effectiveness of the others. It’s all about achieving that tight, precise, and connected feeling.

Installation Process for a 2014 Subaru BRZ Short Shifter

Let's get down to brass tacks, guys: how do you actually install a 2014 Subaru BRZ short shifter? While the exact steps can vary slightly depending on the specific kit you choose (always, always refer to the manufacturer's instructions!), the general process involves accessing the shifter mechanism from inside the car and often from underneath. For most DIYers, this is a manageable project, but it does require some patience and the right tools. First things first, gather your tools and parts. You'll likely need a socket set, screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), trim removal tools (to avoid scratching your interior plastics), a torque wrench (crucial for reassembly), and possibly some penetrating oil if bolts are stubborn. Make sure you have your new short shifter kit, potentially new bushings, and any other recommended hardware. Safety first: ensure your car is parked on a level surface, the parking brake is engaged, and consider using wheel chocks.

Next, you'll need to disassemble the center console. This usually involves removing shift knob, then carefully prying up trim pieces around the shifter boot and the entire center console assembly. There are typically screws and clips holding everything together. Take your time here and document where everything goes, perhaps with your phone's camera. Once the console is out of the way, you'll gain access to the shifter base and the shift boot. You'll need to unclip or unbolt the shifter boot to expose the shifter mechanism itself. This is where you'll see the factory shifter lever and its linkage.

Now comes the part where you remove the stock shifter and install the new one. This often involves unbolting the shifter assembly from the transmission tunnel. Some kits might require you to disconnect the shift linkage cables or rods. If your kit includes new bushings, this is the time to press out the old ones and install the new, stiffer ones. They might require a bit of force or a bushing removal tool. Once the old shifter is out and any new bushings are in place, carefully position the new short shifter assembly. Bolt it down securely, making sure all connections are tight. If you're replacing the entire assembly, ensure it's seated correctly and that the pivot point is aligned properly.

After the new shifter is installed, you'll need to reconnect any linkages or cables and ensure the new shifter operates smoothly through all gears before you put everything back together. This is a critical step! Cycle through all the gears while the car is in neutral (engine off, obviously) to check for binding or excessive resistance. If everything feels good, it's time for reassembly. This is essentially the reverse of disassembly. Reinstall the shifter boot, then carefully put the center console trim pieces back in place, making sure all clips and screws are reinserted correctly. Finally, reattach the shift knob. Once everything is buttoned up, start the car and test the shifter again in neutral and then in first and reverse. You should immediately notice a difference – shorter throws and a more precise feel. Remember to torque all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications during reassembly to ensure everything stays put and is safe. If at any point you feel unsure or are dealing with unexpected difficulties, don't hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Getting it right is key to enjoying your new 2014 Subaru BRZ short shifter!