Subaru Impreza WRX

ateixeira

6/60 is not enough miles, anyway.

Get a 7/100 maybe. Consider that you get free roadside assistance, that may be worth something to you (ours would have cost us $497 over 7 years).

Someone paid $700 for a 7/70 on an Outback, that's pretty cheap.

-juice

bruticus

Considering this offer listed 6/80 at ~$1100. IIRC 7/100 was like $1600.

DjB

barriostkd

Does anybody know how much the stock WRX wheels weigh? Just want to compare them to the aftermarket wheels that I'm considering.

Thanks!

-James B.

WarpDrive

are 16.5 lbs.

sonya4

Stoner--What do you mean by TSB?

My clutch is jerky too though I got used to it. Was puzzled at first since it's the only car I've had with such a sensitive clutch (I thought). If it can be fixed at the dealer's for free, I'll make an appt. right away!

--sonya

ateixeira

Technical Service Bulletin.

They are issued for all kinds of things, often corrections to the user's manual, or even suggestions to Subaru mechanics on how to fix or service a specific part.

-juice

2centz

Search NASIOC for "clutch shudder" and you should be able to find the thread describing the problem. I had the same problem with my clutch in my 2002 WRX. It was very grabby in damp or cold weather until the engine had warmed up. I had it fixed for free (including labor) by A&T Subaru who didn't question my request.

Below is the TSB for the clutch. Good luck!

NUMBER: 03-51-02R
DATE: 05/01/03
APPLICABILITY: All 1999~2002MY and some
2003MY 2.5L Vehicles;
All 2002MY and some
2003MY 2.0L WRX Vehicles
SUBJECT: Cold Clutch Judder (revised bulletin)

INTRODUCTION
In the event you encounter a customer concern of cold clutch judder that goes away after the first few applications, replacement of some clutch parts will be necessary to repair the vehicle. Prior to replacing these parts, you should confirm the engine and transmission mounting is not broken, loose, or misaligned.

2.5L *
Use Clutch Kit: 32098AA020. This kit contains the following parts (and they can also be purchased separately):
Flywheel 12342AA061
Cover 30210AA590
Disc 30100AA851
Bolts (8pc) 800610740
* If the OE flywheel and cover has more then 30,000 miles on it and is in good condition, it can be reused. After 30,000 miles of driving, the surface finish is equivalent to the replacement flywheel and cover.

2.0L **
Flywheel 12342AA071
Cover 30210AA570
Disc 30100AA840
Bolts (8pc) 800610740
** 2002 WRX vehicles with an engine number of #331738 and after can also reuse the OE flywheel and cover if it is in good condition and has more then 30,000 miles on it. Vehicles
produced prior to E/G #331738 will need to install all 4 parts.

These countermeasure parts were installed into production as listed below:
STARTING VIN
LEGACY 2.5L
BAJA 36103910
SEDAN 36206712
WAGON 36305452
OUTBACK 36622108
Forester 3G732771

Impreza 2.5L
SEDAN 3G506077
WAGON 3G805549

Impreza 2.0L
SEDAN 3G500127
WAGON 3G800014

Vehicles after the listed countermeasure, or repairs to vehicles after the clutch set has been installed, can be repaired using individual parts as needed. Repair history should be checked
to determine what parts are currently in the vehicle. The parts system should be checked for any future information regarding these parts.

CLAIM REIMBURSEMENT/WARRANTY INFORMATION
For vehicles within the Basic New Car Limited Warranty coverage period, please refer to the Warranty Labor Time Guide for the applicable labor operation numbers and labor time. Please
use Fail Code JAB-48.

ppek

When you search on NASIOC, you should also fine a scanned image of the actual TSB. I have this I could e-mail you if you can't find it. Many mentioned that their dealership had to keep their car over night to verify the problem (since it doesn't do it when the engine is warm), but my dealership just took my word for it and did the repair under warranty.

Take care,
Paul

paisan

15 169 Andy Berkinshaw Dodge Neon SRT 41.066
T3 521 Michael Torricelli Subaru Impreza L 40.662

This was in my near-stock '96 Impreza L with 155K on the 2.2L engine and an automatic transmission. Results are from the NASA Auto-x this year http://TeamIAC.com

-mike

axp696

As nice as that is, AutoX is 95% driver. That says nothing other than the SRT-4 driver is less experienced.

searcherboy

Thanks for posting the clutch TSB above, 2centz.

I'm interested to know if this problem has been solved, or if anyone has had clutch problems with '04 WRXs.

For that matter, are there any other mechanical issues with '03 - '04 Rex's anyone has heard of?

Thanks in advance for any info.

paisan

Ok, I'll dig up the pics of the SRT4 having more body roll than my dad's '97 legacy L with 90K miles on it.

By the way the SRT4 driver was of comparable skill level, or I wouldn't have chosen that example.

What then shall we use for an example? Do tell, cause most driving situations driver skill plays some role.

-mike

btimmons710

I've taken my '02 wagon in to the dealer twice already about clutch judder and the TSB. I was explicitly told that it was required by SOA that they replicate the judder before they could do the work, but of course haven't been able to do so.

Some of you have had this done already without any trouble from the dealer. Is there anything I can/should do? Maybe take it somewhere else? My teeth about rattled out of my head this morning - any suggestions would be greatly appreciated...

bluesubie

It's probably more pronounced on chilly mornings. Drop it off overnight in the early fall. Try to be there when they drive it as well.

-Dennis

prayerfor

btimmons --

I had the clutch judder repair job done on my car. Right after the TSB was released, I fabricated a bit of a tall tale about how my stumbling car barely got me through a busy intersection, narrowly avoiding a big accident (it could've happened ). That got their attention, and the work was done without further question. Now, also in my favor was that I had documented the problem with them previously, and they had also just done one other car the same week.

krzyss

8 53 Vitor Oliveira Dodge Neon 40.077

15 169 Andy Berkinshaw Dodge Neon SRT 41.066

T4 797 Daniel Preisler Dodge Neon R/T 40.465

And 2 more Neon ACR which DNF (Do Not Finish ?)

SRT4 finished the race. Big plus.
It seems it lost with all other Neons too.
How long do you drive your car ?
How long could Andy drive his ?

When you win it is great, just do not put down the loosers. Next time you might be one of them.

Krzys

purduealum91

oh no, whats happening? Do you all agree? get the evo and save $2500 +?

bluesubie

Lots of reviewers and test-drivers say the EVO handles better, mainly because of it's quicker steering.

Personally, I would also strongly look at reliability if I were dropping anywhere near $30,000. ;-)
http://www.jdpower.com/news/releases/pressrelease.asp?ID=2003050

-Dennis

hypov

Eh krzyss...
I think the comparison was on the SRT4 specifically [stock] ;-)
the Neons you mentioned had modifications.

hee hee given the way paisan drives, he gets to drive his Dad's Legacy L less then Andy gets to drive his SRT4

-Dave

inspector67

I just run across this article that talks about higher compression ratio (8.0 -> 9.0:1), variable valve timing control, 4EAT sequential shifter (among other new features) for the Australian WRX.

http://subaru.com.au/news/?newsid=11686

I am hoping that the higher compression may mean significantly more engine response at low revs. Does any one know if this Australian model will come to the USA? And how long may we have to wait for it?

Thanks, Ralph.

paisan

Hmm I have aproximately 80 miles of driving experience behind the wheel of the Impreza L that I drove in that race. Yup that's right 80 miles. The car sits on a trailer the rest of the time cause it's not registered.

-mike

stoner420

GM reliability better than Subaru?? Holy cow.. I'm trading in for a Rendezvous, pronto!

btimmons710: I think it's mostly the dealer... I just mentioned the clutch shudder to my dealer (Crabtree Subaru) when I went in for a 15k mile service, but didn't even ask for a repair, and the next thing I know they are scheduling me to do the whole replacement, without needing "proof" (cuz they obviously know it is a virtual certainty on all '02s)

sensei1

Anybody have SSR experiences? A bit pricey but light weight and force forged. What's your take on it? Thanks.

Warpdrive, you there?

ppek

btimmons710,

If your dealership will not work with you, I would try another one. You obviously have the symptoms for this problem (which is frequent enough they issued a TSB for it). As I mentioned earlier, my dealership took my word for it, so I did not have the hassle of leaving my car over night.

Good luck,
Paul

stoner420

I replaced my intercooler hoses with a set of Samco silicone hoses last night (except for the BOV return hose, which seems like a real PITA and I didn't have time to work on it yet).. Anyone else do this? Notice any difference? I can't quite tell if they have helped or not -- I reset my ECU too at the same time, the car is certainly driving quite smoothly today, but then it mostly drives smoothly every day.. It did seem like the turbo whine sounded a little less 'hoarse' (I've previously removed my intake resonator too)..?

hys

sonya4

axp696

First off, I wouldn't waste your time with the return hose, the Y-hose is the only one that makes a difference. They've been dynoed at 5-8 hp increase by Vishnu, so you most likely won't feel it on the buttdyno (unless you can feel the difference between a full and half tank of gas, which is about the same power increase to the ground). What you should see is slightly more boost on your boost gauge, and more importantly, a slight decrease in turbo lag. That, and the satisfaction of knowing you've removed another restriction in your intake. ;-)

laker3

Promised these a few weeks ago... Here are some shots of my yellow WRX with a few upgrades.

http://homepage.mac.com/jeffreyp/PhotoAlbum4.html

paisan

I dunno about 8hp gain... But I'd definitely say it's a worthwhile install. We've done a bunch of them on clients cars. Mostly it's a good protection for the vehicle because the stock ones have been known to collapse/melt/etc.

-mike

stoner420

Holy cow, that was not fun.. the clip is like completely impossible to get. Lots of WD40 + I played with it for about an HOUR until I finally got the damn thing off. Well everything seems to be working normally still, no hoses left unconnected, no leaks detected, no CELs, whew... And yeah, I totally agree it's not really necessary at all, but it was part of the package, I might as well install it... at least it looks nice :-/ The Y pipe seems to be doing something though, my wife also commented that it sounded a bit quieter, I think as if it is not having to suck as hard because the pipes are smoother.

nyccarguy

As a car guy I've always loved the engineering, turbo, AWD traction, & hard numbers that the WRX puts up, but haven't been too keen on the styling. I don't think it is by any means ugly, but I just don't love it. Styling is subjective anyway (I drive an '01 Type SH Prelude which many consider to not be the prettiest car around).

Enter the '04 model. I've been seeing a few of them on the road and really like the updated front and rear fascia on the car. I think the new styling gives the WRX a handsome profile and good look. I saw a black one today that really caught my eye...really sharp.

I love my Honda and I don't plan on parting with it for a very long time, but as a former Saab owner ('00 9-3) I'm a big fan of turbos and having AWD is something that appeals to me.

There is one thing that the Prelude and WRX have in common, the crummy stock Potenza RE92s. I'm sure the WRX's AWD makes them easier to deal with.

As much as I think more power is always better, I think the STi would be a little too hard edged for me to use on a daily basis. I like things like radios and sunroofs. The gold color wheels aren't exactly my cup of tea.

paisan

The STi comes with either silver or gold wheels, and the best part of no radio is you can put in whatever you want!

Same thing with the RE92s, I'd just go out and get some good tires for it of my own choosing

Where in NYC are you? C'mon out to some auto-xs at Nassau Colleseum or Giants Stadium.

Check out some fellow edmunds folks on my team based in NYC http://TeamIAC.com

-mike

subie2b

Hi folks,

I'm looking for info on the 00/01 RS Sedan. Since I think there may be a lot of previous/current owners here I thought I'd ask.

Are there any known big problems? How does it run as a 3-yr old car? Reliablity?
I've no experience with frameless doors, is there a lot of road noise?

Thanks in advance.

himiler

My '00 RS sedan has been a great car for my wife & I. It's not a rocket, but it has real character and is lots of fun to drive. The steering is sublime.

I was a little skeptical about the frameless doors, but road and wind noise are pretty low for a car this size. The only unscheduled service it's required was a rear brake job.

The RS is a good enough car to get me to leave Honda and put another Sube in the garage ('04 WRX wagon), so take that for what it's worth.

c_hunter

Welcome! I had a 97 Prelude SH and loved it! Traded it in on an Outback wagon when marriage/house/etc... was in the cards. After suffering sports car withdrawal for several years, I added an 03 WRX to the garage. I have to say, it's probably superior to the Prelude as a sports car in almost every way. If you're used to the weak low end on the VTEC engine, then you probably won't notice the turbo lag at all. And AWD eliminates any torque steer or wierd antics I remember from the FWD/ATTS setup in the SH.

The only thing I miss about the Prelude is the overall look/feel/image of the car. Honda really nailed down that slick silky feel with the Prelude, and I always felt like it was a priviledge to drive the car. In fact, I wish I just kept the Prelude! Would have been cheaper in the long run. It wasn't a real looker, as you have noted, but the overall package was fantastic.

Otherwise, I have a blast with the WRX! It's certainly more playful than the Prelude. And when you just want to drive, it's a surprisingly well behaved little car. I enjoy commuting to work in it.

Craig

c_hunter

I saw your pictures -- the car looks real nice!

I was wondering, do you happen to know what the offset is on those wheels? How about the weight? I was also looking at a set of MM wheels for my WRX.

thanks,
Craig

twrx

My wife had the original 1998 RS. There was a recall for leaky double offset joints. They used a grease that was too low in viscosity and leaked out. You got a burning smell if that happened (it did on hers). Check if you can on a used one if that hsa been done to the car. After 1998 model year it was supposed to have been corrected. The clutch was never a smooth one to use. It suffered from the "judder" which has afflicted Subaru clutches for sometime. Again there were several fixes for this. If you get a 5 speed check it. We put up with a somewhat less than smooth clutch and she eventually traded it in on a Solara with an auto transmission. As a matter of fact that is why she got rid of the car. She has developed arthritis in her hips and the shifting was giving her pain. There really were not any other problems with the car and she would have kept it had it been an automatic. No problem with leaking doors with the frameless glass either on it, the '98 Forester I owned or the 2002 WRX I now own. Her RS was a bit over the top looking. It was the original model year designed to look like the WRX (world rally blue, scoop, spoiler and gold wheels). Teenagers kept trying to buy it from her. Actually the RS is decently fast. It has 165 hp and and only about 2800 lbs weight. New (2002+) ones weigh closer to 3000 lbs so the older ones are to me the way to go. Also there is no longer a sunroof or a 2 door model. Mileage is pretty good. about 23 city is what she got and 27 highway.

TWRX

duff8

I bought an 04 WRX and am real happy with my choice. The stereo stinks. I am having new front speakers (Alpine) and an upgraded amp. put in today (local stereo shop). So, no stereo would be to your advantage. The turbo lag was a definite issue at first. But there was a HUGE improvement after the break-in period. I didn't get the STi because I thought the markup (41k) was pretty high and I wanted to get a feel for the WRX first. I love the safety, practicality and handling of AWD, which I had never experienced before. To get all of that with the speed and looks of a rally car is exciting. You've got plenty of room in the back for passengers, a big trunk. It's humorously practical for a sports car. I have had several 4WD's but will never go back. I also like the 04 styling, but think the earlier front end was funkier, less mainstream. I have the red. After driving white cars for a long time I am really really enjoying the red. Actually look forward to washing and waxing it. Will probably wear the paint off playing with it. It does chip easily,though. The front seats are nice to look at and are pretty comfortable for short trips. After 4 hrs. they get a little uncomfortable. Most seats do, though. I would like a better harness installed. The passenger tends to get thrown around alot on twisty roads. Not a problem for the driver, at all. Minor minor problems with this car. Hardly worth mentioning. On the whole, this is the most I have ever enjoyed a car in my life. I don't think there is a car out there right now (in it's price range) that can match it for speed, safety, comfort, handling,(and not that many out of its price range). I'm thinking I will drive the heck out of it and trade it in in a couple of years for the STi. I've read reviews that say the main disadvantage of the STi is that being an exotic race car, it isn't practical for running errands. As far as I'm concerned, that is exactly why you should buy it.

rexaroo

The 04 is a good-looking car in an up-to-date sort of way, but the bug-eye is more original, distinctive, and timeless, IMO--you can see one coming a mile away whereas you have to look twice when an 04 appears to see what kind of car it is.

Personally, I've become a little more protective of my bug-eyed wagon now that they aren't making any more of them. Probably only made 16,000 wagons or so altogether in two years, and maybe 25,000 sedans.

WarpDrive

I like my bugeyed wagon more than ever now. I do like the new one, but I like the distinctiveness of the bugeyes. I never thought it looked ugly but I do not doubt that others find it ugly.

I think of the 02-03 purchasers as the diehards, we had to put up with all the negative comments of the looks....we must love the way it drives to do that!

stoner420

c_hunter

The look of the 04 models is what drove me to buy a WRX -- a *2003* model that is! I had always been thinking about getting a WRX, and then saw pictures of the 04 models and they looked kind of bland to me. So it was like an emergency -- must buy 03 now! That and a hefty discount closed the deal.

At least that's how I rationalize it to myself. My wife doesn't buy it, of course....

Craig

ppek

I like both front ends. I own a 2002, so I'm partial to the bugeyes, but I would have still bought one with the new front end. One thing I don't like as well with the 04's are the seats. My friend just bought an '04 wagon and the seats don't hold me nearly as well as my '02's.

Before I even turned on the engine for my first test drive, I was almost sold with the seats alone. Once I took the test drive, the rest is history.

My $.02

See ya, ... Paul

barriostkd

I just bought the ’04 three weeks ago. I’ve been following the WRX since 1994 and was hoping (even praying) that they bring it to the US. When SOA finally brought it to the US I was a bit disappointed w/ the front-end design, but it eventually grew on me. And I said to myself that regardless of the front design, it’s still a WRX and is worth buying. I decided that if I did get one I would change the lights to after market ones similar to those used on the Subaru WRC cars. But when I saw the ’04 design it appealed to me a lot more and was set on getting the newer version. Plus, I was originally in the market for the STi and those came w/ the ’04 front-end. I would have paid MSRP, but wasn’t willing to go a penny over (I consider the markups highway robbery).

-James B.

sonya4

James--Congrats on your purchase!

I love the bugeyes--did from the beginning. Rexaroo is right, when an '04 appears you have to look again to make sure it's a WRX. My '02 still gets attention from blocks away!

Some time ago, a few months after I purchased my Rex, a Mustang GT pulled into the parking lot beside me and the driver said to his passenger, looking at my car, "Look at this one!" in a disparaging way. I didn't say anything but thought, "Buddy, 'this one' can give you a run for the money!" Maybe he knows that by now, after coming across other WRXs and the STi.

--sonya

merrycynic

Poor Subaru, they can't catch a break. Lots of complaints at first about the original face, now complaints that they replaced it. Funny, Mercedes had the same complaints at first with their e series, now people seem to like it (myself included). As for me, I like the old front and the new rear.

jimmys2

I like the new front but I agree that it is less distinctive than the 02/03. I am mostly disappointed that Subaru dropped the large fog lamps in favor of the all too common miniature type. My biggest gripe with the styling of both new and old is the wheel choice, to small/narrow. I have added a set of 17" Prodrive P1's and it gives the car a bit more attitude.

nyccarguy

I live on the upper west side. I'd love to get my butt to an auto-X event one of these days, but unfortunately a 6 day work week and assisting in planning my wedding (That sounds great honey) are in my way:) One of these days I'll get there though.

paisan

I'm up on the upper (way upper?) west side near columbia where the GF lives. Anytime you want to come out feel free to I think Sept 21st is a sunday @ giant's Stadium, should be a cool event.

-mike

ateixeira

Right off the wedding, it's her day anyway. You're just a special guest.

Tell her you trust her judgement completely and go autoX for a day.

Then...come back and you can get our advice on where to find a good divorce lawyer! LOL

-juice