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Subaru performance library

Subaru WRX and STI Guides

Identify your engine and chassis, understand common problems, plan maintenance, and choose upgrades that fit your WRX or STI.

Essential reading

Start here

Begin with the broad references, then continue into the subject sections below.

Learn the platform

Generations, model differences, and the names Subaru uses across the WRX and STI range.

Engines and reliability

Engine identification, known failure modes, and generation-specific reliability research.

Maintenance and diagnosis

Service planning and symptom-based guides for keeping a WRX operating correctly.

Subaru WRX parked in front of shop for an oil change

8 Best Motor Oils for Subaru WRX / STI

If you want to keep your Subie running great for a long time, it's important you use the right motor oil. Not all oils are created equally. It's important not only to use synthetic oil, but make sure the oil has the right certifications, such as API SN, SN PLUS, or SM . If you want to ensure a longer engine life for your car, proper maintenance with the right supplies is important.

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Tuning and power

Calibration choices, fuel systems, upgrade stages, and the hardware that supports added power.

Suspension, wheels, and brakes

Fitment and setup guidance for street driving, rough roads, autocross, and track use.

Intake, cooling, and exhaust

Airflow and exhaust upgrades organized by generation, fitment, sound, and tuning requirements.

Interior and exterior

Driver controls and appearance upgrades with generation-specific fitment.

PERRIN Shifter Stop for Subaru WRX

Shift Your WRX Smoother? Perrin Shift Stop Review.

The stock shifter set up on the 2015+ Subaru WRX leaves some room for improvement. For one, it's possible to push the gear lever too far to the left when shifting into 1st and 2nd gear. Luckily, this is easy to solve with the Perrin shift stop, a simple modification that can be installed in less than 30 minutes, but greatly improves the accuracy and feel of the WRX's shifter.

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Buying and ownership

Used-WRX buying advice, model-year concerns, and ownership decisions before you purchase.