Subaru N14 in action - Valasska Rally 2008

Subaru N14 in action - Valasska Rally 2008

Subaru Wrx Sti Parts Guide

Author: Unabomber

Most Subaru owners love their vehicles. And while we are very satisfied with them in stock form, there’s something in the Subaru owner’s brain that makes them want to modify their vehicle. What would make a person take a perfectly running vehicle and mess with is a topic for another discussion though.





While each of us in our mind’s eye have a vision for our vehicles within our perspective budgets, this narrative is catered towards probably the highest percentage of Subaru owners, including myself. Power is nothing without power is the phrase I am fond of saying. While some people’s hearts flutter when considering brake upgrades, suspension components, driving schools, and the like, give me something that adds horsepower any day. With this in mind, I’d like to review what most consider being the very first power mods to their Subaru.





Step 1. Research. Before you perform ANY modification to your car, you must weigh the pros and cons of the potential modification. This is because there are very few “no downside mods” with our vehicles. When you think you’ve researched the mod to the ends of the earth, wait a few days and start over. The general rule of modification is 90% research and 10% purchase.





Another good tip is to ask yourself the following questions. These are only examples and should be tempered towards your specific mod(s):





a. Will this affect my neighbors? The really awesome exhaust your buddy has may be the genesis of sour neighborhood relations.


b. How will the law look at it? Realize that many states and localities frown on exhaust modifications with regard to noise and tampering with catalytic converters.


c. Will this affect other people who drive my car? No wife/husband/out of town visitor will think that your “pre-flight checklist” before starting your vehicle is as cool as you do.





Step 2. Installation planning. Right after you’ve made your decision, find out what is involved with the install. This rule applies even if someone else or a professional will be doing the install. What gaskets do you need? What are the torque specs? What parts should you buy just in case? The list goes on and on, but more than one install has been put off for a third hour run to the parts store. Remember, there’s nothing worse than to have performance parts sitting in your living room; prepare before you buy.





Now that you know the most important aspects, let’s cover the basic power mods.





Exhaust. This is one of the more expensive first mods. A typical full exhaust system can run around $1000 and add around 25HP. This is also one of the trickiest mods in terms of personal satisfaction. The reason for this is that most users select an exhaust that is simply too loud. You’ve read the online reviews that praise the quality, fit, finish, and cost effectiveness of say a Helix exhaust. You decide to pull the trigger. You spend the better part of 2 hours doing a textbook install and go for a spin, loving every minute of it. Then reality sets in. It drones at highway speeds, your wife hates it, your neighbors hate it, and you just got your second exhaust ticket….





When it comes to exhaust volume, you are limited as online audio clips that just don’t provide a physical realization of how loud it is. In order to do so, you need to find a local with this exhaust or rely on a trusted Vendor who will tell you a good comparison.





Also, don’t forget to search online forums for used exhaust systems. Used exhausts are a real bargain. Sure, it may have a ding or some scratches, but how long will your showroom exhaust stay looking that way anyway?





Intercooler hoses (for turbo Subarus except the STi). Real great bang for the buck mod with zero drawbacks. For around $150, you get a quicker spooling turbo and somewhere in the neighborhood of 8HP. This will replace the stock plastic accordion piece with a freer flowing unit. The other hoses are mainly for looks and do nothing; so many users give these away or don’t install them. Once again, used is perfectly fine.





Uppipe (for turbo Subarus except 2006+ turbo models and the STi). This is arguably the best first mod. Considering you will gain 10HP for around $200, it’s another great bargain mod. The big downside, other than possible legal issues with removing a cat from your system, is the installation. This install requires a lot of planning and a lot of time.





Much has been written about the horrors of this install, but as long as you have the correct tools, utilize the correct techniques, and allot yourself a full eight hour workday in case of problems, it can be done alone. The best way to perform this is to have a friend assist, preferably one with previous uppipe experience. It is within the realm of a shade tree mechanic though as most of the install consists of moving easy parts out of the way to access the uppipe. Used uppipes are perfectly acceptable though most owners generally do not swap this part back out once installed.





Intake. For naturally aspired Subarus, they are 100% fine as they are MAP based systems. For turbo Subarus, which are MAF based, this mod requires some knowledge. We all know that intakes are the first mod on most cars. Do not fall into this logic with a Subaru as it isn’t like other cars in this regard.





If you want an intake for your STi, there are several choices that require careful research on your part and are 100% fine. An example of a good intake is the K&N Typhoon intake which has been independently tested as providing good air/fuel ratios. Just because your buddy has an Apexi intake on his STi and it runs great does not mean it is doing unseen/unheard harm. Most aftermarket intakes, without tuning, will make your car run lean, which can be a dangerous condition or one that will decrease the reliability of your car.





If you want an intake for any other model turbo Subaru, there are a few good choices that require research as well.





Recently, SPT announced a new intake designed for the STi, but not other models. This is good news, but also begs the question: Data seems to point to fewer problems with intakes on the STi than other turbo Subaru models, so maybe other turbo Subaru models just do not work as well with intakes as the STi?





If you plan on tuning, any intake for any Subaru model will work. Some intakes are easier to tune than others though, so talk this point over with your tuner prior to purchasing. This can save you an extra hour on the dyno and at up to $200/hour + dyno time, it’s a 5 minute phone call work making. But, your tuner just might talk you out of an intake though. For that reason and many others, used Subaru intakes are plentiful.





Engine Management. For the 2002-2003 WRX owner this is not as big of a concern as it is for 2004+ turbo Subaru owners (minus STi). The reason for this is the EPA mandated engine tuning requirements in 2004 for manufacturers changing the transition for open/closed loop periods due to emissions & fuel economy reasons. Manufacturers are allowed to exclude one model and Subaru chose the STi. What this means is that 02/03 WRX and STi owners, with sufficient knowledge, can safely use manual boost controllers, air fuel controllers, and the like. For 2004+ turbo Subaru owners, your best bet is to discover the world of engine management. As well, for all Subaru owners, you are best served by engine management as there are hundreds of power variables that can be changed aside from say boost or A/F ratio.





Choosing an engine management system is a very hard process and probably the one that requires the greatest amount of thought for ALL mods. You want to ensure that the system you choose will accommodate your present and future desires. In the case of a local tuner, in might just be in your best interest to use their recommended system. This is because if you have problems or need a retune, they are better able to handle your system than say the “better” system you have your eyes on.





Used components are an outstanding way to go. Many users sell their system due to poor planning as they quickly outgrow their system, so you can find great deals on lightly used equipment. Ensure that the system will work with your vehicle though as many systems are year and/or transmission type specific.





Now that you have an uppipe, intercooler hoses, a full exhaust, and some engine management, you are at the “Stage 2” level of power. Stages are just a marketing tool, but to give you a better realization, it should mean you are putting around 50 more HP to the wheels than a stock car in a turbocharged Subaru; numbers will be slightly less with N/A models.





This is an amount of power that you can feel. Your car should be much more drivable and should reduce most of your low end/off the line sluggishness that you previously may have experienced. With this power though, you will also maintain a high degree of reliability and there shouldn’t be much of a change in your day to day mileage either. Total cost can vary, but the smart shopper will talk to locals, search eBay and the Subaru For Sale Forums, and save around 50% by buying used components.

About the Author:

Shopper at www.fastsubie.com

Nine Japanese Automakers

Nine Japanese Automakers
By Matthew Keegan

Japanese built and designed cars have flooded the North American market for over forty years now. Over time, many nameplates have come and gone, but Japanese cars continue to gain market share and acceptance with a growing number of motorists attracted to their high quality and durability. There are nine Japanese automobile manufacturing companies in existence. Can you name them? Let's take a look at the list:

Toyota - The second largest automaker in the world is Toyota, maker of the Camry, the Corolla, and a host of SUVs, trucks, passenger cars, and a van. Toyota's Lexus division produces luxury cars, while its Scion division manufactures youth oriented vehicles.

Honda - The Accord and the Civic are Honda's two most well known models, followed by the Odyssey minivan, the Ridgeline truck, the Element, and several other passenger vehicles. Acura is the name given to Honda's luxury car division.

Nissan - Drive a Datsun and then decide. Up until the early 1980s, Nissan's North American nameplate was Datsun, but was switched to Nissan to give it a more global name. The Sentra, Maxima, and Pathfinder are amongst the division's best selling vehicles. Infiniti is Nissan's luxury car division. Renault Motors of France owns a controlling interest in Nissan.

Mitsubishi - Originally imported exclusively by Chrysler, Mitsubishi began to sell cars under its own name in the 1980s. Top selling models include the Lancer, the Eclipse, and the Montero. DaimlerChrysler owns a chunk of the company.

Mazda - The Tribute, Miata, and the "6" are some of the most well known Mazda models. The Mazda 6's platform also powers several Ford Motor Company cars including the Mercury Milan. Ford owns an important stake in the company.

Subaru - Think all wheel drive and you may just think Subaru. The Forester, Outback, and Legacy are all top selling Subaru models. Fuji Heavy Industries [FHI] owns Subaru; General Motors has a 20 percent stake in FHI.

Suzuki - 20% owned by General Motors, Suzuki is as noted for producing cars as it is for manufacturing motorcycles. The Grand Vitara is one of its most noted models.

Isuzu - Did someone say General Motors? Again, GM owns a stake in Isuzu. At one time Isuzu imported cars to the US, but those days are over. Currently, Isuzu has a miniscule presence and the two vehicles they do sell - the Ascender SUV and I Series pick ups - are simply rebadged GMC vehicles.

Daihatsu - The Charade and Rocky were two models introduced by Daihatsu when the car company started selling vehicles in North America in 1988; four years later its North American operations were closed. In 1999, Toyota assumed controlling interest over the company.

So, there you have it: there are nine Japanese automakers, two of which are still independent. Much like the American market further consolidation is likely with nameplates disappearing entirely just like the Packard, Hudson, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, and a host of other North American nameplates have driven off into the history books.

Copyright 2005-2012 -- Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance automotive writer covering classic, current, and future models. He manages Mazda Verisa, an enthusiast website for Verisa fans.

Rob Swann testing Subaru N14

Rob Swann testing his new Revolution Wheels backed Subaru Impreza N14 ahead of the Jim Clark Rally 2008.

Subaru Impreza's Much-Awaited Majestic Debut

Subaru Impreza's Much-Awaited Majestic Debut
By Terry Brown

Subaru is making a majestic European presentation of its newest Impreza. Said presentation will be held at the Geneva Motor Show, a fabulous auto show that launches several cars from famed automakers. Said auto show will take place next spring.

Subaru Impreza may be equipped with 1.5 or 2.0 litre atmospheric engines. The latter type of engine can boost out 300 hp. Said engine is only offered in the top version of Subaru Impreza. This new member will traditionally have the famed Subaru Impreza performance parts equipped for four-wheel drive system.

The intercooler for the turbocharge in the most powerful version of Subaru Impreza is incorporated in the front of the engine instead of the usual place which is on top of it. This is done to improve the ventilation of and cooling of the vehicle by providing ample space underneath the hood. Aside from that, it will also reduce centre gravity and improve security against frontal collision.

The idea of softening the bump came from the use of popping-out airbags in the car to lessen impact in times of bumps or collision. Nowadays, it is not only the airbags that contribute to this end. Intercooler in the top version of Subaru Impreza also imbibed this goal.

Hiroshi Mori, in one of the interviews, said “this new car will be easier and cheaper to manufacture than the current generation, but will keep will keep all features of that legendary car. New generation Subaru Impreza hatchback version will receive shortened chassis comparing to the future sedan. This new hatchback Impreza will have more rigid body, than its sedan brother. In addition, this novelty will differ by short butt (a.k.a rear part of the body) and longer nose.”

The guarantee of safer driving plus the comfort of the traditional Subaru cars is fitted in the hottest version of Subaru Impreza with 300hp.

Cling on for the new generation of Subaru Impreza is almost here. It is scheduled to arrive somewhere between the end of 2007 and beginning of 2008. However, you can have a closer look at it in this coming Geneva Motor Show.

Auto Parts Information

Subaru Impreza performance parts

Terry Brown is a 32 year old from Houston Texas, and an enthusiast for anything auto-related. He currently writes auto-related articles for several publications.

New Subaru Impreza WRX Goes on Sale in Japan

New Subaru Impreza WRX Goes on Sale in Japan
By Zeke Gervis

Subaru’s new Impreza WRX goes on sale in Japan this week as a late 2007 model, and with it come greater anticipation for the high-performance STI version, which won't be officially revealed until the Tokyo auto show in October later this year.

The Subaru Impreza WRX five-door hatchback (known as the Impreza S-GT in Japan) features a turbocharged 2.0-liter version of the Subaru boxer-4, and it produces 248 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. When this car hits U.S. shores this fall as a 2008 model, it will have a 2.5-liter iteration of this engine that produces about 225 hp and 226 pound-feet of torque. In the UK, tight European emissions laws mean buyers won't be offered the WRX model when the hatch arrives there later this year.

Meanwhile, the “wilder”, high-performance 2008 Subaru WRX STI expected to remain under cover until the Tokyo auto show already has a few key facts leaked.

The WRX STI draws motorsports technology directly from Subaru expertise in World Rally Championship (WRC) competition and is designed to appeal to the most serious driving enthusiasts. STI stands for Subaru Tecnica International -- the high-performance and motorsports subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.

The highly anticipated STI is set to be powered by a tuned version of the 2.5-litre boxer engine turbocharged to produce more than 300hp and around 400Nm of torque, be mated to Subaru's existing six-speed manual box. A new automated manual, sourced from specialist firm Aisin, is expected to join the line-up when the latest Impreza is facelifted in 2009.

Subaru is making sure that the new Impreza can and will give its archrival, the 2008 Mitsubishi Evo X - which will feature an optional twin-clutch sequential-manual gearbox with steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles – a run for its money.

The top Impreza will offer a range of unique styling additions, including a specially developed bonnet, grille and a wide front bumper with big air intakes.

Flared wheelarches house smart 18-inch alloys, which will hide the existing STI's Brembo brake system. Buyers can expect to see minor tweaks to the all-wheel-drive system, and engineers have also taken the opportunity to tune the handling, thanks to a more compact double wishbone rear suspension set-up.

Inside, the new Impreza range boasts higher-quality trim, with the STI getting a pair of supportive bucket seats up front to boost its sporty appeal.

Subaru (maker of top of the line Subaru oxygen sensor), has also told Inside Line that a turbocharged boxer-4 diesel for the WRX is in the works and should be out by early 2009. The company is reportedly eager to drop a high-mpg diesel into the Forester and Impreza soon after the Legacy gets Subaru's first diesel next summer, so the WRX is part of the program. Sources from Subaru have also reportedly confirmed that the company is working on a five-speed automatic and a continuously variable transmission, and both these options could be offered as early as mid-2009.

Subaru is a Japanese car company and is the automotive division of Fuji Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (FHI). It is currently an affiliate of Toyota Motor Corporation, with it owning 8.7% of FHI. They acquired that stake from General Motors, who bought 20% of FHI in 1999 to have an extended presence in international markets, and collaborate technologically with FHI.

FHI has recently set a new theme for Subaru cars that emphasizes Subaru’s goal: Subaru offers a comfortable, pleasant drive for the driver and passengers; provides peace of mind and reliability; and extends convenience, utility and functionality.

For your Oxygen Sensor parts needs like Subaru oxygen sensor, visit your trusted online dealer.



Zeke Gervis has a degree in Human Resource Management. He is an F1 fanatic and is a collector of racing memorabilias. At present, he enjoys working at a consulting firm in Iowa.

Subaru WRX Performance Tips

Subaru WRX Performance Tips
By Stephan Sunde

Here are some easy tips that can be done to generate improved performance for your Subaru WRX next time it appears to be running a bit sluggish. Enjoy.

CHANGE YOUR OIL

This may seem obvious, but you would be surprised at how easy it is to forget or overlook. The owner's manual for the Subaru WRX suggests changing the oil every 7,500 miles under normal driving conditions. Under normal driving conditions? Seriously, who really drives a Subaru WRX normally? The owner's manual also suggests an oil change every 3,750 if you drive ir hard. Enough said. I think we all know which of these recommendations to follow.

PROPERLY GAPPED SPARK PLUGS

The proper spacing for a 2002 - 2003 Subaru WRX is 0.028"-0.031" (0.7-0.8 mm). If you have a different year of Subaru WRX, refer to your owner's manual for proper specs. This tip may seem a bit petty, but any extra power that can be had for free is worth the time and effort.

CLEAN YOUR AIR FILTER

The manufacturer/stock Subaru WRX air filter leaves somthing to be desired, but if you don't have the extra cash to purchase an aftermarket air filter, please make sure your stock filter is clean. The more air that gets to the engine, the more power you have. Seems simple so far, right?

USE PREMIUM GASOLINE

With gas prices being what they are at present, I know that this is a hard-to-swallow tip at this time. Gas is not cheap, and premium gas can never be purchased at a price that makes it a deal, but you are driving a Subaru WRX, afterall. So, spring for the good stuff! Your Subaru WRX deserves nothing less than the best.

The next few tips are more involved; however, we are dealing with the Subaru WRX. Extra time and effort results in improved driving performance so it is well worth it.

TRY INSULATING YOUR FUEL LINES

Insulating the fuel lines of your Subaru WRX permits the temperature of your fuel to remain cooler which allows more fuel to enter the combustion chamber in addition to permitting more airflow through the chamber as well. Consequently, the more fuel and air that you have moving through the chamber of your Subaru WRX, the more power you will have to work with.

The simplest way to accomplish this is with air conditioning / refrigerator insulation which you can get from any hardware store.

YOUR SUBARU WRX NEEDS TO LOSE SOME WEIGHT

This is a matter of basic physics. Less weight + more power = better performance. The less weight your WRX has to lug around, the better it will perform in every category. So, take an inventory of what has accumulated in your trunk from time to time and make sure to empty it every so often!

Well that's all I can think of for now. Stay tuned for more tips to improve your Subaru WRX.

Check http://www.247carstuff.com/ for more performance for your Subaru Impreza.

Stephan R.S

Subaru Impreza WRC 1999 Richard Burns on board Tour de Corse

Subaru Impreza WRC 1999 Richard Burns on board Tour de Corse

Basics of Subaru WRX Maintenance

Basics of Subaru WRX Maintenance
By Colin Hogue

Basic WRX Performance Tricks

Here are a few WRX performance tricks that I have come across that may give you that extra punch next time you pull up next to a Corvette at a stoplight. Please keep in mind that oftentimes increasing horsepower comes down to some common sense.

Oil Changes

Let's start off with an easy one. How about changing your oil? I can still hear my dad saying, "Make sure to change that oil every 3000 miles!" Nowadays, most cars don't require that oil be changed quite that often, but if you drive hard, it never hurts to put some fresh synthetic oil in there to help things run a little smoother. The Subaru WRX manual says to change the oil every 7,500 miles under normal driving conditions or every 3,750 if you drive hard. I suggest the latter.

Fresh, Properly Gapped Spark Plugs

Keeping your spark plugs inspected, cleaned, and gapped properly are also easy ways to keep your WRX running at its best. The proper spacing for a 2002 or 2003 WRX is 0.028"-0.031" (0.7-0.8 mm).

Fresh Air Filter

Some of these things are so basic that I hesitate to mention them, but a lot of the time, the things that we forget to do are the simple things. So, when was the last time you checked your air filter? Imagine trying to breath through a dirty pillow. Sounds difficult, right? That is what your car is doing every day unless you make sure to clean your air filter. Better yet, upgrade your intake system to some type of Ram Air kit to allow your WRX to inhale as much air as possible.

Premium Gasoline

With gas prices at an all-time high, this is one tip that is hard to swallow. Saving those extra pennies at the pump seems a good way to pinch pennies, but don't do it. Save money elsewhere. Pump the premium. Why? The higher the octane, the more power for the engine of your Subaru WRX. There is a reason that race cars run on high octane fuel. MORE POWER!

Check out my blog Everything WRX for more info.

Subaru World Rally Team Finland 1999

Subaru World Rally Team Finland 1999. Richard Burns and Juha Kankkunen in Action.