Subaru Impreza WRX

Kirstie_H

One major daily newspaper is looking for folks who drive 2002 or 2003 yellow or orange cars, and another major daily newspaper is looking for folks who successfully or unsuccessfully attempted to negotiate the purchase prices of their vehicles at the end of their lease terms. If you care to share your stories on either or both of these topics, please send an e-mail containing a short summary of your experience and your contact information to jfallon@edmunds.com no later than Tuesday, May 14.

Thanks much,

Jeannine Fallon
PR Director
Edmunds.com

sensei1

Thanks for the info Dennis. Looks like the screens are no different from the bug shield put in front of a radiator. What I had in mind was a pre-formed mesh screen right on the scoop opening - kinda like the headlight screens for off-roaders That would look sharp. I'd just have to keep an eye out for it.

-fredy

sensei1

Thanks to the welcoming committee - juice, narenji and the rest.

Congrats on a good choice to my fellow nubie subies stedswrx and huibregtse re: my post #5840. The hardest part of all this is holding the reins back (1k). 481 to go for me but who's counting. This isn't my first new car so I think 1k is on the safe side. As long as we're driving reasonably and not going out of the way to check out the limits should be okay. But I tell you, it's like training a young lab or retriever to keep still. I know it's mostly a state of mind but still paaaiiiinnnful to hold back.

See what you started redline65? I don't have a solar panel yet ;-) but some grays have been showing. I guess part of the aging process is I'm becoming more intolerant of dumb drivers (either lack of skill set or don't know any better). It's one thing to have *&%#@ of steel and another to have the skill and know the safety boundaries. This circles back to why WRX. So I can stay out of their way or in front of them!!! Best defense is a good ehem ooppss....WRX. Have a good day and a safe weekend everyone.

ateixeira

Actually, I have seen Borlas up close and they have some fine workmanship.

Anyone got a Yellow Rex? E-mail Jeannine, help 'er out.

-juice

spyder1965

The turbo boost gauge looks cool and is functional as well but does anyone know how to use it or what is the best way to use it? I know I'm not supposed to be staring at it while driving but it is pretty difficult to check it while driving anyway. Do I just monitor the needle and the way it swings when throttle is applied or released, or is there a better way to use this thing. I love it but I just don't know how best to use it.

ateixeira

I'm not sure it really adds any usefulness beyond what the tach gives you.

I guess you could see if the blow off valve got stuck or something, but that's about it.

-juice

rsholland

I think a tach is all you need.

Bob

sensei1

I have one too. Turbo kicks in @3k +/- and I feel the surge. Maybe because I'm still getting used to the car. Yes the tach is really what you look at w/ a stick shift (don't want to over-rev). I just look at my gauge as an indicator that I have the turbo working (expensive idiot light). Specially as the car gets older and we're used to the ride, it's nice to have a gauge indicator. Actually I think that's the only turbo indicator unless the CEL monitors it also.

redline65

Thanks everyone, I now know I'm not too old to drive a WRX. My next question is - anyone in the Dallas area have a good experience purchasing one at a local dealership? Is the WRX still a hot item, or can they be had for under MSRP now?

wrxguy

Ive got the subaru security upgrade. So far it has proven itself worthwhile. It is acceptably sensitive and reasonable loud enough via car horn.
when the car has been messed with ,,,the alarm beeps three times when you enter instead of the traditional single chrip or beep,

According to many other WRX owners (i-club) they like the aftermarket ones. Though I wouldnt know which ones are preferable.

cptplt

since the car comes with a remote door opener, just make sure if you get an aftermarket one you don't end up needing to carry 2 fobs!

dop50

Whatever kind of alarm system you get, be sure to notify your insurance carrier.
Should be good for a pretty decent discount.
Mine came with the security system upgrade and the savings was around $40 as I recall.
I don't know if an aftermarket system would save the same amount or not. But it's worth asking.

Dents and dings... I recently posted that I had some door dings. Well, my local body shop wanted something like $327 to repair and repaint the door. I was not satisfied that it would match or fade at the same rate as the original finish. So, I opted to try a paintless dent removal company. The company I picked was a chain called "Bulldog". Anyway, for any of you guys who get dings, this is the way to go! (As long as the paint is not broken or the metal isn't kinked) They removed two dings, one about 1" dia. at the crown, and the other somewhat smaller, and buffed off the offending paint as well. Total cost $75.

I am pleased with the results! Can't tell they were ever there!

Ken

thecat

Ken - Those guys are amazing. I had a dent in my roof about the size of a grape. Looked like somebody banged their knuckle into it. Gone without a trace. Plus they came to my house to do the repair.

Hutch

stedswrx

Thanks for the alarm upgrade feedback.

Another question, anyone ever hear about a "warranty verification?" The dealer I purchased from slipped a business card in the glovebox giving me a "free" 1,000 mile service and warranty verification. I don't see anything in the owner's manual about it. I called Subaru and they said that it's not required. Just thought I'd see if this is unique to this dealer as a way to get me back in asap and start the maintenance clock early. I'm not sure if I'm going to take the car in for the free service and may use another dealer for service if this turns out to be a marketing idea for the service department.

bluesubie

You could always take them up on their free offer. Then go to another dealer for the next service if you're not satisfied. Make sure you ask a lot of questions if you take them up on it.

-Dennis

ateixeira

We just bought a Legacy and the first visit will be for a free oil change at 3000 miles.

-juice

schiza

Question for those who have driven a BMW 3 series and WRX. What are some of the differences between a BMW 3 and WRX as far as road feel, high speed stability, overall handling? I love my wrx, but what is the big deal with a BMW?

zeusman

A fair question, but I think it comes down to the fact that BMW has been making great driver cars that actually fit more than two people for a long time. Their cars are a nice blend of handling, speed and comfort not to mention safety. They steer well and feel rich inside. Yes the WRX can run with the BMWs, but compare their interiors and ride. You don't always want to sprint everywhere in your car. Hope the STi WRX is nicer inside, that is what kept me from purchassing a WRX.

krzyss

go to some uk sites and try to find info about STi (unlike .jp .uk uses English; do not forget that us .com translates to .co.uk, at least from time to time).
I believe STi has bigger brakes, bigger wheels to acomodate them, 6 speed manual trasmission, bigger turbo, stronger engine with variable valve timing. I do not think that Subaru tries to compete with luxury part of sport and sport-luxury and luxury-sport cars.

Krzys

PS If it comes here to US we shall see.

bluesubie

Edmunds has a review of the '01 BMW 325xi wagon.

They mention the WRX numerous times.

http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/roadtests/spin/46587/article.html

I agree with Krzys. No WRX is about luxury. I think some STi's have suede seats.

-Dennis

thecat

Ouch !
- Hutch

paisan

If anything the STI will be MORE sparce inside! The WRX is a race-car, not a luxo-mobile! Not to mention it's a lot cheaper than a BMW. I'd like to see an even lighter, less luxo model of the WRX with less sound proofing etc. Kind of like the 1st gen Teg Type Rs.

-mike

cptplt

I haven't driven the latest 3 series but I can tell you that with the older models, even with traction control, stability control etc etc and good winter tires, it still can't compete to a good AWD vehicle with good tires. I had for 4 years while I was working in Europe a UK spec 318 4 banger with the sports package and even with snowtires (though this was in the mid 80s so there were no Blizzak type tech then) the car was not something you really wanted to drive in snow when compared to a FWD car.Europe is littered with Bimmers in the ditch in early winter as everyone who drives their Bimmer like a mad man in summer forget that RWD cars esp with summer tires suck on snow till the first time they get pulled out of the ditch! I loved the car but going back to MN I bought an Audi, the wife had a Coupe in Europe we loved so we got a 4000 to bring back home because we needed the AWD. While I have driven friends/relatives Bimmers since, my WRX is way more fun than the 318 I had or the more recent 3series I've driven for short periods and almost as fun, but in different ways, to a M3 I have driven.
If you live in southern CA or FL, get the Bimmer, if you live in the snowbelt, get the WRX or Audi though the 3 series xi is probably just fine too.If you like luxury, get the Bimmer or Audi. Once I would have said, if you want snob appeal from being exclusive get the Bimmer but I think they probably sell 10x more 3 series out there than Subaru Imprezas!

schiza

I don't care about snob appeal. The BMW is a drivers car and thats why it appeals to me. I was going to get the A4, until I test drove the WRX. The looks at first didn't appeal, after I test drove the WRX I was won over. The looks have grown on me also. The car is solid, fast and handles well. I drove an older 95 BMW 328 with low miles and it drove well, but I like the WRX better even though it's not as LUXO. One way to appreciate the WRX is look at it from underneath on a lift. I was just wondering how the WRX stacks up against the BMW in road feel, handling, etc. I've heard how well the BMW does in those categories and haven't been able to verify for myself.

cinosweive

Well, I did some experimenting based upon some of the comments posted here. It appears impossible to prevent the AC compressor from running when the defroster is on. Even when the Half defrost, half floor setting is used, the compressor runs. That is just plain moronic. If anyone ever comes across a post describing which wire to cut to do away w/ that problem, kindly post it here.

cinosweive

I don't know if BMW has fixed this, but they used to have a pretty good reputation for swapping ends when the roads became a little slick. But I think BMW has some of the smoothest engines and shifters out there. Silky. As for luxury, I think you normally pay extra for luxury in a BMW. If you buy the base configuration I don't think you do as well as with the WRX.

The other day I took a corner a little more aggressively than I'm used to. The WRX stayed on track, but when I came out of the turn all I could smell was rubber. I must have smelled rubber for the next quarter mile. Odd, I didn't hear any squealing though. Do Potenzas not squeal?

schiza

I don't care about snob appeal. The BMW is a drivers car and thats why it appeals to me. I was going to get the A4, until I test drove the WRX. The looks at first didn't appeal, after I test drove the WRX I was won over. The looks have grown on me also. The car is solid, fast and handles well. I drove an older 95 BMW 328 with low miles and it drove well, but I like the WRX better even though it's not as LUXO. One way to appreciate the WRX is look at it from underneath on a lift. I was just wondering how the WRX stacks up against the BMW in road feel, handling, etc. I've heard how well the BMW does in those categories and haven't been able to verify for myself.

rexaroo

Both cars are precision driving tools that will give you loads of fun on a twisty road, although here at high altitude in Denver, the turbo on the WRX gives it a big advantage. Normally aspirated cars lose about 3% in horspower for every 1000 feet in altitude--a turbo won't start losing power until the air is really thin. Last year, coming up the steep mountain grade on I-70 to Genesee park, I easily outran a 240-hp M3 for this very reason. He looked pretty surprised to be beaten by a Subie sport wagon to say the least.

In the famous 3 car comparison in Car and Driver (Oct. '01), the Rex placed ahead of the 325ix over-all, beating the BMW in outright grip on the skidpad, was faster in the emergency lane change maneuver and faster in the acceleration tests. The BMW has a shade better shifter though, and a little quieter inside the cabin.

If I could only choose one--the WRX definitely, although if some lottery winnings ever come my way, I'll be checking out a slate-gray M5 5-spd.

paisan

Pull the wire that connects to the AC compressor and it won't be coming on. That engages the clutch IIRC.

-mike

bruticus

My Neon has this same thing. I asked my father (owned own garage for abou 20 years, now teaches auto tech) why this is. APparently the A/C is forced on to ensure that the air hitting the windshield is as dry as possible to speed clearing away condensation, etc from the glass. Also, the A/C engages to keep the air inside the ducting dry; otherwise, moisture will collect inside the ducts and can lead to mold growth, funky smells, etc.

DjB

hunter001

The M5 is a six-speed.

Later...AH

cinosweive

Paisan: I didn't want to kill the AC altogether - just wanted to control whether the compressor came on during windshield defrosting. I was thinking there would be a wire connected to the air director switch - if I could get to the darned thing I could pull it. If only I had a Haynes manual.

Bruticus: Regarding the moisture situation, I am sort of seeing the opposite - an increase in moisture in the car. I don't know if anyone else has noticed this, but in a normal car you can run the defrost w/out the AC - when the window is clear you can turn the defrost off and all is well. W/ the Subaru's setup, when you turn the defrost off you now have a pool of condensate on the condenser coil tending to increase the humidity inside the car and worsen fogging. So once you turn the defrost on, you have to keep it on.

cinosweive

I've looked around for a Haynes manual for the Imprezza line but haven't had any success. Does anyone know of a good service manual for the WRX? (other than the very expensive factory manual).

ateixeira

The 3-series is a sweet car. We drove them at the BMW Ultimate Driving Event, around an autocross course. Of course they were 330i sedans, probably close to $40 grand.

The Bimmer has better throttle response, a much nicer interior, and more prestige. You don't get any more usable space, though.

-juice

wrxguy

You asked did the potenzas squeal? I got mine to screach and start to slide very easy. I think I squealed with delight when I had them replaced with some other tires.

paisan

I've had mine for 1500 miles and they now have 5500 miles on them. As an all-around All-weather OEM tire they are perfectly fine. If you race and/or drive agressively all the time, then the RE 92s will not be sufficient. I have no idea why people complain about em unless they don't understand what an OEM tire is supposed to accomplish.

-mike

prayerfor

You know Mike I've thought the same thing myself regarding the RE92s... perhaps Subaru was smart to equip the car with tires that exhibit gradual and progressive breakaway at the limit, with plenty of ride comfort for day-to-day driving and all-season capability. These aren't the ideal tires for all folks (none could be), but they do suit the majority of drivers just fine. Personally, despite their subpar grip, I'd take the RE92s over a set with tenacious grip but sudden breakaway -- that's a combination that would inevitably get me (and many others) into trouble.

I feel much the same way regarding the stock suspension tuning -- I'm annoyed by the amount of body roll there is when cornering hard, but at the same time, I think the balance and ride comfort levels are spot-on. I'd love to do some tweaking to diminish the roll, but I wouldn't do so at the expense of pronounced under- or oversteer, or if it resulted in a significantly harsher ride.

paisan

Both of these items are relatively easy/inexpensive upgrades that are best left for the individual to do or have done as they see fit. For instance I'd rather have the RE92s instead of paying say $700 more for the car and get say SO2 or SO3s that may or may not fill my personal needs. So in-expensive ones like the RE92s and slightly softer suspension allow you to go ahead and upgrade to components you feel are best for your situation.

-mike

cptplt

The only real problem with them, having had them on my older Subarus (92 LS wagon, 98 GT wagon ) is that once they are even slightly worn, their traction esp in snow is horrid! Otherwise they are pretty decent in terms of ride etc and even handling unless you are quite aggressive.

rexaroo

Forget it then--I'll just stick with the WRX--six gears is way too much work for a guy my age. ;-)

spyder1965

I read somewhere the WRX is electronically limited to 130mph, does anyone know if it is easy or practical to disable this limiter? If it is disabled, does anyone know what its top speed might be? Not that I would drive it at top speed, heck I wouldn't even drive it anywhere near 130mph but I'm just curious to know what its true potential is without the limiter.
On a different note, I noticed under the dash and the steering wheel on the left hand side, there are 2 wires with green plugs that are disconnected, at first I thought this came undone so I plugged them together and the CHECK ENGINE light went blinking, does anyone know what this is? Or has anyone else tried plugging them together and got the same result?

paisan

~140 is the non-speed limited top end of the WRX from what I've read/heard/seen/etc.

-mike

lilbluewgn02

130 for the automatic, 140+ for the 5-speed

rexaroo

(and sorry, this info was quite a ways back, so don't have the issue numbers handy) the auto WRX is limited to 130, while the manual tops out at 142. The 5-spd. wagon WRX tops out at 140 due to slightly higher drag.

fxs

I have hit ~140mph in my 5spd WRX sedan in New Mexico. Our speed limits are 75mph on Interstates and some secondary roads. Alot of our roads are straight where you can actually see 10 miles ahead. We don't have much population - about 4 million total for such a large land mass. There are more than 4 million folks alone in Brooklyn, NY! I guess this is good because I only experience traffic jams when the state performs highway construction. I've also hit 154mph in a 1996 Z28 and 130mph on a 1985 Suzuki GS550E motorcycle back in the day. I've been lucky with speeding tickets although I got popped doing 95 in a 75 in a commuter 1996 Geo Prizm loaded up with 4 passengers. The trooper wouldn't buy my story that a Geo could not go that fast. I use a bearcat scanner and passport radar detector when I plan to break the law or travel cross country. With that combo on board I've been ticketless for over 10 years.

hunter001

In some states like Virginia, Radar detectors are illegal. So when travelling cross country, you may need to keep that in mind !

Later...AH

ateixeira

DC and CT, too, IIRC.

-juice

paisan

I've only found em helpful on parkways and county roads. In the interstate nothing beats a CB. You get on an interstate and you'll know exactly the milemarker of any and all cops. Also when you get pulled and have a radar detector most cops see that as "pre-meditated" speeding, rather than a momentary lack of paying attention.

-mike

fxs

When I hit Virginia (I-85 I try to avoid I-95) I put my detector in the glove box. My scanner has local and state police bands, CB, weather, etc. If a cruiser is within a 5 mile radius a red LED warning light alerts you. When I get close to DC the traffic is so terrible you are forced to do the speed limit anyways all the way up to NYC. I can get to Brooklyn from DC in about 4 hours if I travel between the rush hours and stay off 95 and the NJ turnpike as much as possible.

paisan

Hmm From DC->NY it usually cruises at 70mph, heavy but moving. Heck in NJ on the NJTP if you do less than 80 in the left lane you are run off the road!



-mike