Subaru Impreza WRX

ateixeira

Don't they stall on the way? You may need a tow truck to do that. LOL

Kidding - I actually like the Focus, besides the reliability.

-juice

subarusaleshou

Focus is not a bad car per se, it's just the build quality and reliability that stink. The SVT is visually excellent but I'm afraid it won't hold up at all compared to my Subaru.

paisan

The Focus is nice, but reliability... My buddy owned a SVT Cobra a few years ago, and was living in Ann Arbor near SVT headquarters/plant. His glove box was improperly installed and he went to the plant and had a chat with the 2 guys who built his car. He went in and asked for them by name (they sign the hood) and when they got to the waiting area, he made them fix it in the parking lot! SVT: Proof that Ford can build a good car when they want to. They just choose not to most of the time!

-mike

mws1672002

I went to my local Subaru dealer today to have my WRX serviced and while I was waiting for my car I walked out to the used car lot. To my surprise I saw there were two used STi's on the lot, each with about 6,000 miles on them. I have a 2004 WRX and I have not seen any used 04 WRX's on the dealers lot. I test drove one of the used STi's and really felt it drove harsh compared to my WRX. I asked the used car manager why they had two STi's traded in so soon and he said the people who bought them did not like the rough ride. Now granted one had traded in a BMW for the STi, and the other owner had traded in a Corvette. If they did not test drive the STi before they bought it they may not have known how rough the ride is. But to see these cars already being traded is surprising. Has anyone else heard if the STi is suffering from this type of complaint? I really love my WRX and could not see wanting to get rid of it already.

c_hunter

It might not be just the ride. My impression of the STi is that it's very close to the bleeding edge of performance and handling. This kind of car is not for everyone. In addition to the stiffer/tauter suspension, it lost a bit of sound insulation and other NVH niceties. Definitely not a daily driver for many people.

Craig

ateixeira

I'm not surprised. To get to that level of performance, daily driving has to be sacrificed. When you buy a car sight unseen, with no test drive, you're only guessing if it's civilized enough for you.

And the STi is not civilized. It's wicked. Mwuhuhuhuhuhhaaaaa!

-juice

rsholland

Dealers have been unwilling to allow for test rides of the STi. I'm sure there are others out there who have been surprised, upon delivery, that their new car is noisier than they expected; it rides much harder than they expected; and may actually discover that "living" with this car on a daily basis, may not be as enjoyable as they had hoped.

Bob

ateixeira

Only way to solve that is to have one "demo" at each dealer, but that gets pricey.

Honda had that problem with the Odyssey. When the Pilot came out, the test model had a "Property of Honda" label on it. It was not for sale, only a demo. Pretty interesting. But expensive.

-juice

c_hunter

If there are no test drives, I really think the most realistic STi buyers are previous WRX owners (or owners of a similar car) who know exactly what makes the STi an STi. A lot of people have sunk thousands of dollars into their WRXs to add more horsepower, better handling, etc... which bring the plain WRX more into the STi league. In my opinion, these are the only guys who can slide right into an STi without a test drive. They're really the only ones who know what they're getting into. Anybody else should really be demanding a test drive.

Craig

kevin111

If people are returning STis to the dealership (one by me is has a used one as well) there will be plenty of them to demo. :-)

paisan

I'm not sure about you guys... But I've done some significant driving in the STi, it is quieter and has nearly the same ride as the WRX. It is far quieter than any GC8s I've been in and it's quite plush. I would put the STi basically right below my SVX in terms of road noise and comfort as far as subies go. Just my opinion.

-mike

ateixeira

The '00 2.5RS that I rode in had lots of road noise. My Forester feels like a limo in comparison. Of course both are more refined now.

-juice

1hokie

For those of you that missed it Cobb Tuning is coming out with an Access Tuner - a handheld device that can reprogram your chip to put out 260+ hp, depending upon program. (up to 315+ w/mods) Ok, this is old news as they've been saying it's "coming soon" for the past year now - but they have made the announcement that it'll be out in February. A great added feature is that you can switch between programs without reflashing the computer (which has a 100 flash life). Why change programs? Well, they have 4 nice programs - a "sport" tuned program (260hp+) for everyday use, a race program (uses higher octane gas, etc), a valet program (no boost for you Kyle!), and an anti-theft program to use when parking your car - car will start but then cut off after a few seconds.

This may be the best anti theft device for the car - not to mention the nice increase in horsepower! With no mods you're looking at 260hp. With a catback exhaust I think you can get 285hp. Cobb Tuning also takes away the speed limiter, and includes reset tools for CEL, and other lights. Best thing is you can "uninstall" it and the computer is programmed back to factory.

As for voiding the warranty - there's plenty of talk here about that, and I'm not going to get into it. Modifications may void the warranty on the parts associated with the mod. If nothing else, for those of you nearing the end of your warranty (either mileage or years), you have nothing to lose.

My car is completely stock - with 12k on it - but I figure when I get closer to 50-60k, I'll start doing some mods like these. YMMV

btw - Subaru should come out with an option like this at least for a security system - plug something in to your car and set it on "security" mode, so the engine won't start, etc. Could even be done with the key fob, but then people can steal the transmission signal, so that's not always safe. I'd pay a few hundred $$ extra for a feature like that!

subarusaleshou

This is flywheel horsepower? Is the price finalized or just the February expectation? It sounds like a great way to go. Will there be anything similar for n/a engines?

c_hunter

Cool, I may jump on one of those Cobb units.

If you want a simple anti-theft device, you can locate the wires that go to the fuel pump fuse and starter cutoff switch (on the clutch pedal of MT cars). Put a switch inline with these wires (one DPST switch would handle both) and you got your own simple anti-theft device. You just need to hide the switch somewhere.

The starter cutoff would deter most thieves. For determined people who pop-start the car, the fuel cutoff will stall the engine after a few seconds (if it starts at all).

Craig

nyccarguy

badly enough, they'll tow it!

c_hunter

I've heard stories where people just pull your car up onto a flat-bed and haul it off!

Craig

cyberdyne

I test drove a 2004 Impreza WRX about a week ago. The sales man actually let me take it for a rally style test drive. He had me accelerate up a hill so fast the car launched. Then we drove down a street that had newly installed speed bumps. He told me to drive over them like they weren't even there. The car never flintched. My question is, how well do the windows hold up?. I had a Dodge neon, not a car to compare to the WRX, that the windows rattled like crazy if they were half way down. Never mind the wind noise especially on a windy day. Any feedback would be appreciated.

subarusaleshou

I hope we never dealer trade for a car that salesman has had someone test drive.

c_hunter

Sounds like a fun test drive, but I feel sorry for the person who buys that car!

Subaru's frameless windows are pretty good, especially in the last few years. You will get a muffled rattle when you slam the door with the window halfway down, but thats about the worst of it. Definitely give it a try before you buy, just to make sure you agree.

Craig

merrycynic

I really like my WRX wagon and I'd buy another one if I had the need. I find the rattle of the windows when down disconcerting, sounds cheap.

xcskier

I have an 02 WRX wagon, love the car, about 37K miles with nothing but fun.

I have a new medical condition that shuts down circulation to my fingers almost completely. When this happens, they turn white and develop a very painful ache and throbbing. It's definitely a bummer.

I began wearing gloves in the fall and moved to thick mittens now that it's winter here in the mountains of Utah. This has helped a little, but I still have some pretty significant problems.

I recently bought an aftermarket steering wheel cover, kind of neoprene and rubber. I got the most sedate looking one I could find. I never knew what "racecar" fashion was out there! Anyway, I thought this might help keep some of the cold away from the hands, but it too has provided a marginal improvement at best.

Does anyone know about dealer-installed or aftermaket heated steering wheels (like Saab or Volvo probably have)? I'm thinking this might be a pretty good solution to my problem, but I'm not willing to trade cars just to get it.

Thanks for the help.

subarusaleshou

I've never heard of a heated steering wheel on anything but what about heated gloves like for motorcyclists... with the added benefit of portability from vehicle to vehicle and into/out of the house etc.?

cyberdyne

If I try it at the dealer, what can I expect over time? Does it loosen up over time?

cyberdyne

At least this was a true test of their product. Unlike the Mazda 6 I was within inches of buying before I found out it was a brand new rust bucket.

cyberdyne

Just wanted to thank everone who replyed to my question. I really need a car that will last for a couple of years. The in depth research I've been doing on every car made now is killing me. This one rusts, that one dies after a few miles or they burn more oil than a deep fryer.

cyberdyne

How old is your car? Do you feel the sound has increased over time?

merrycynic

Cyberdyne, I've had my WRX wagon for 16 months and have over 30,000 miles on it. No, the sound has not increased over time. The only thing that has increased is my appreciation of the vehicle. I change the oil as recommended in the manual. Despite frequent checks, I've never had to add oil. I've never been stuck. There is no rust anywhere. Please keep in mind that the few cars that I considered before purchasing the WRX cost more (and performed worse).

kevin111

someone please correct me if I am wrong(Juice, Dave, etc.), but I thought I remember reading on these boards that Subarus generally have little nits when you first buy them, but after that they are extremely solid. So far my car would fit that description. Have had a couple of minor issues to deal with, but after $30K, really have not incurred any more issues. The car is still a blast to drive (especially with upgraded tires!)

BTW, what is the deal with the Mazda 6? I did not hear anything about them? Is there a couple of areas on the car that are exposed to the elements?

cyberdyne

I thought after test driving the WRX that it was absolutely a great. I will most likely buy it. I also thought the Mazda 6 was a good car, but read some of the threads about it. Some responses have links to actual pictures of cars. It's a shame that these people are left with a car in this condition only 6 to 12 months after purchase.
 Thanks for your response

cyberdyne

It's nice to hear that somebody is happy with their car. I hope my experience is the same. I'll let you know in a month.
 Thanks for your response

hypov

Generally, Subarus when new, you'll encounter some nits. But once ironed out, solid.
I'm into the 11th month/10k with my WRX wagon and haven't gotten any nits since purchase.

-Dave

p/s I've a '99 OBS that has been problem free since purchase. My '98 OB (deceased) had some minor issues, but was solid after that and until I crashed it.

c_hunter

The longest I've had experience with Subaru windows so far is about 55,000 miles on a 3 year old Outback (my first Subaru, now belongs to my parents). The windows are as tight (or loose depending on your standpoint) as they were when new, so I don't see it getting worse over time, at least in 3-4 years. And the good news is that Subaru built 5-6 adjustments into the window mechanism, so the windows can be re-adjusted if needed. There are anti-rattle pads that can also be easily adjusted.

Here's a pic of the inside of my Outback door just to give you an idea:

http://members.cox.net/craig.hunter/window/images/img_06_01.jpg

By the way, I have been following the Mazda 6 rust issue. It's a real shame. However, the WRX is a much beter sports car than the 6, and is a blast to drive (as you found out I'm sure).

Craig

theflow

The new 2004 Nissan Maxima has the heated steering wheel in a package together with heated front seats and heated mirrors. Check with the Nissan ppl and see if there're any aftermarket heated steering wheel for your car.

cyberdyne

Thanks for the pic. You gave me the information to make a comfortable purchase. I'll post a pic here once I purchase the car.
 Michael

cyberdyne

Does anybody have any suggestions on how to keep the engine and compartment clean? I usually just sprayed some mild spray cleaner on it then rinsed it off with a lite spray of water. But, I'd like to keep the black plastic parts and hoses looking new.

c_hunter

That's what I do too -- spray everything with Simple Green,
 let it sit a few minutes, and then hose off. Afterwards, start up the engine and let it idle for 10 minutes or so, just to get stuff drying out. It usually looks pretty clean afterwards, and takes zero scrubbing. Simple Green has a nice smell too.

Good luck with the purchase. You should be able to get the WRX at or near invoice (sometimes even below), so make sure your dealer works with you on price.

Craig

cyberdyne

I currently live in NY and will be moving to Orlando, fl. I've made contact with a dealer already with plans to purchase a 04 wrx. He gave me a price of $500 over invoice. Saying that it doesn't cost as much because the options are installed at the factory. And, he stated that requested orders are handled first by the factory then the cars that will just sit on his lot.

cyberdyne

Do you ever wipe down plastic parts with a plastic conditioner? Here's a tip, if you let the engine bay dry naturally without running engine. The aluminum parts won't get that white rust-type look. The white stuff is actually mineral deposits from the water evaporating to quickly. It's what is known as "Flashing" when water evaporates from hot metal.

c_hunter

Thanks for the tip abut drying.

I don't use any plastic conditioner.

Craig

cyberdyne

I have read on this site that the transmission gear oil on a 5 spd should be changed after 1K miles. And, that Mobil 1 should be use. It supposedly improves shifting.
 My car will be driven year round in Florida. If anybody has ever been there they can relate. The temperature reaches well into the 90's very often. I would imagin using a higher viscosity oil.
 Does it matter what oil is used since the car has a turbo?

c_hunter

I definitely recommend Mobil 1 synthetic for the engine, you can use 10w-30 in the Florida climate. Best to wait to at least the 3000 mile oil change (first change recommended in the manual) to switch over. I think it's important to let the engine break-in with the standard oil.

I changed the transmission gear oil to Mobil 1 75w-90 at about 3000 miles, thinking it would be an improvement. It was great in cold weather and the shifter feel was very light. However, the 1-2 shift got a bit notchy and I read about problems with Mobil 1 on another Subaru forum. Apparently, the Subaru synchros need a little friction and Mobil 1 is too slick. So, I switched back to regular gear oil. It's not as nice in cold weather, but the 1-2 shift is better. Take it from me, just leave the stock gear oil alone!

If you want to improve shifter feel, you can spend $35 on Kartboy bushings. They are made from a harder material than the stock bushings, and improve feel significantly. Not too hard to install either. For that matter, the STi short shifter is a nice upgrade too (it was already installed on my car as an option from the port).

Craig

kevin111

Meant 30K miles $30K, sorry.

prodigalsun

Ok, I'm looking at an 04, manny tranny with the Premium package. I've got one dealer quote at 500 over cost, and carsdirect lists the car at 100 over invoice minus the 750 cash rebate.

I'm not trading in, and I am financing and I'm in the northwest.

If someone else has bought recently and didn't trade in, I'd like to know what they were able to work out.

ateixeira

$500 over invoice is too high, IMO. Depends on what they mean by cost. If they are subtracting the holdback, then adding $500 profit, that's fair.

In both cases you should get the entire rebate subtracted from the price.

-juice

prodigalsun

Naw, they're not subtracting holdback (I'm smart enough not to mention it), merely going with the 500 over invoice, minus the 750 customer cash.

I'm thinking of countering with the CarsDirect price, which is 100 over invoice minus the cash.

I've also got a line on a fleet company who worked a deal on a '04 loaded Sienna for 300 over invoice. back when they were fresh out.

ateixeira

You should have bought one then turned it over and sold it at MSRP, you woulda made a killing.

-juice

dgman

Hi all. This is my first post here. I just bought an 04 WRX, platnum silver, short throw shifter, spoiler, boost gauge. I love this car. I drove lots of other cars when I was shopping and I couldn't get this car out of my head after test driving it. The interior features weren't as great as the Mazada 6 I drove but the performance was my deciding factor. I still want to buy the side spoilers and stake kits to add a better appearance. Also, I might get the 17" rims if I can get wife approval

I've never been a "tuner" but I am interested in doing some things to this car to make it better looking and faster. I can handle the exterior stuff but since I'm newer to the aftermarket performance arena, what easy, inexpensive things can I do to my car to make it faster. I want the low hanging fruit first. The stuff that gives most bang for the buck. Perhaps later I'll consider some of the more expensive upgrades.

One last question. I've been obeying the 1000 mile break in period according to the manual. I'm at 650 right now. Have others done the same? I'm eager to drive this car hard but I'm afraid of ruining something now and regretting it for years.

Thanks for any advice.

PS I'm 30 yrs old so keep the tuner lingual basic for me or at least define any acronyms so I can catch on. Thanks again.

dgman

BTW - I got the dealer down to $250 below invoice without the $750 rebate figured in so I paid $ 1000 below invoice. It was off the lot so not the exact options I wanted but close enough for the price. I also was able to use the 3yr 2.9% financing deal that is going on. I'm in Iowa and I don't think these cars are going of the lots as fast as some other areas of the country so maybe I got a better deal because of it.

bluesubie

I would hold off on power upgrades for now if I were you.
IMO, you should get used to driving the car first. Once it's broken in and you're used to controlling the turbo, it will feel faster.

Putting on a bigger rear swaybar, 17" wheels and better tires will make the car handle much better.
Check out this site for some good WRX tuning info:
http://www.spdusa.com/ More good info here:
http://www.cobbtuning.com

I believe in break-in according to the owner's manual. Others believe to drive it hard from day one.

-Dennis