Subaru Impreza WRX Wagon

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Comments

  • philwang66philwang66 Member Posts: 61
    andmoon,

    The cabin filter on the WRX is also behind the glovebox. Try this:

    http://subaruparts.com/install/2002iairfilt.pdf

    My understanding is that the filter holder is there regardless of whether you have the filter. The filter element runs about $30 or so. I've heard that people have cut furnace filters down to size to save money.

    I do not have the roof strips on my wagon. I'm pretty sure they're just glued on.
  • hypovhypov Member Posts: 3,068
    Theyare glued on.
    I didn't have them as an option since it is not likely that I'll be hauling anything above it.

    -Dave
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Use a heat gun or hair dryer and heat them up. As you heat them up use some fishing line to separate them from the roof. After you get them off you'll need to remove the glue residue.

    -mike
  • hypovhypov Member Posts: 3,068
    or park the car out in the hot afternoon on a clear sunny day :D

    -Dave
  • bluesubiebluesubie Member Posts: 3,497
    I got the same thing on a trip from NJ to SC. With a lighter foot, I can see how people can milk out 30 mpg. :-)

    -Dennis
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    If you get the kit and are going to install it yourself, I have photos I can look for. They're not up on the web, but I could e-mail them to you. It's been a while since I did this.

    By the way that looks pretty much the same as mine, so it would be helpful to you.

    -juice
  • xcskierxcskier Member Posts: 34
    I heard a partial report on a Subie recall for springs and/or other suspension parts.

    Anyone have details? I don't even know what years or models are affected.

    Sorry if this belongs on some other board...
  • subearusubearu Member Posts: 3,613
    can be found here: http://www.subdriven.com/artman/publish/article_28.shtml

    Legacy, Outback, and Baja models are potentially affected. No WRX's or other Impreza's or Foresters.

    -Brian
  • xcskierxcskier Member Posts: 34
    Glad the recall doesn't affect WRX. I guess a different supplier painted our underbodies.
  • hunter001hunter001 Member Posts: 851
    The Imprezas (including WRX) and the Forester is built in Japan, while the others (Outback/Baja etc) are built in the US. So yes, the suppliers almost certainly are different.

    Later...AH
  • andmoonandmoon Member Posts: 320
    Thanks to all for the responses!

    While changing my oil, I checked the trans fluid level and found it to be low! I got a level right below the low mark...had to add almost 3/4 qt to bring it to the full mark. All new owners...check your trans fluid levels.

    Is the center, front diff and trans. all contained in the same case? I now want to check all fluid levels but before I crawl under I want to scab some info off you fellows.

    Only other cars I've had with trans/diff combos were aircooled vw's.
  • narenjinarenji Member Posts: 161
    I believe the front diff and trans share the fluid that you can replace. the center diff is sealed. you can also change the fluid in the rear diff.
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Front Diffy is separate on 4EAT models
    Front Diffy is combined with the 5MT Transfluid
    Center Diffy is sealed unit.

    -mike
  • andmoonandmoon Member Posts: 320
    Thanks all for the replys.
    When changing the rear diff fluid, is a lsd additive needed? (MT)
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    The rear LSDs on the current subies are viscous rear LSD v. Mechanical. The mechanical ones are the ones that need the additive. Check your manual though to be exact.

    -mike
  • andmoonandmoon Member Posts: 320
    More questions....anyone try some synth. trans fluid...that changed the shifting feel of the tranny? I've heard of neosyn or something sim. but was more interested in the more commonly available gear oils.
    Thanks thanks thanks

    ps. I'm starting to feel bad about mooching so often.
  • bluesubiebluesubie Member Posts: 3,497
    Not many of the easily available sythetics are good for our gearboxes. Most of them are too slippery to allow the synchros to work properly, since they need a little bit of friction.

    I used Amsoil synthetic 75W90 (not the Series 2000) in my OBS for 3 years and was very pleased with the results. The biggest difference was during sub-freezing temps. You can order it directly from Amsoil.com.
    I'm still deciding between that and Motul for the Rex.

    -Dennis
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Is yours an AT or MT?

    I like amsoil and redline. Both have excellent ratings and I've used redline in my MT and will be using it in my 4EAT shortly.

    -mike
  • kevin111kevin111 Member Posts: 991
    Thanks for the info.
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Not sure of the weights though. For instance my front diffy in the SVX takes different weight than the rear diffy.

    -mike
  • philwang66philwang66 Member Posts: 61
    Per the owners manual, 75W90 GL-5 should be good in both the MT and rear diff.
  • axp696axp696 Member Posts: 90
    Perhaps my owner's manual differs from others, but my 2003 says 75W90 GL-5 in the front diff/transmission (with friction modifiers), and 75W90NS in the rear diff (without friction modifiers).
  • hypovhypov Member Posts: 3,068
    Brian-
    what page on your manual?
    I too have a '03 and don't see what you see, anything about friction modifiers, on my manual.

    -Dave
  • rexaroorexaroo Member Posts: 174
    Very expensive stuff but supposedly helps with gear grinding, especially in first when you are trying to downshift. I've heard the Subaru WRC teams use the heavy duty racing version and that it allows you to downshift smoothly into first from as high as 20 mph without problems. Can't verify that as haven't tried it myself, though might be tempted on the next tranny fill-up.

    They have a web site at

    www.neosyntheticoil.com
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    The redline helps you be able to downshift into 1st before a dead stop. Several auto-x folks I know use it in their RS for this exact reason.

    -mike
  • axp696axp696 Member Posts: 90
    Perhaps I'm getting ahead of myself, I don't have it in front of me to check at the moment. 75W90 is best for the transmission, because the friction modifiers will aid and improve the life of the synchros. It is not needed for the rear diff, where 75W90NS is best. I'll look in my manual later, it's probably the same as your's.
  • bluesubiebluesubie Member Posts: 3,497
    Yes, I believe you're getting ahead of yourself. ;-) The manual does not mention anything about friction modifiers.

    "NS" usually refers to Redline's 75W90NS gear oil that should be used for the gear box.
    http://www.redlineoil.com/products.htm

    I'm not sure where the "WRC team uses Neo" rumor got started. Maybe by the guy that wrote the article in Turbo (or Super Street?). There could be some US Rally teams that use it.
    The WRC team is sponsored by Motul.
    http://www.swrt.com/35585.html

    -Dennis
  • philwang66philwang66 Member Posts: 61
    There's no mention of friction modifiers in the manual. However, I have read that some synthetic gear oils may be too slippery for MT synchros, thus friction modifiers are added. For example, I think Redline's website mentions this.
  • once_for_allonce_for_all Member Posts: 1,640
    does it increase mpg? Less friction is good, IMO, but if the synchros need it for proper operation, then adding in something that takes away synthetic benefits doesn't seem to make sense. Anyone on the mileage benefit?

    John
  • rexaroorexaroo Member Posts: 174
    but not so much that you would really notice a difference. We're talking maybe 0.1 or 0.2 mpg better. Real benefit is in more efficient operation of the tranny and much less wear.
  • brizeybrizey Member Posts: 48
    ...and my bout with unemployment appears to be about to end, I am again strongly considering picking up a 2004 WRX wagon.

    My questions: Besides the headlights, what else has changed from the 2003? I searched this forum and didn't find much substantiated information.

    I test drove the 2003 in January then promptly got layed off. I was expecting to have to wait until the fall for the 2004's (and I do like the new headlights better), and was pleasantly surprised to see that they are now available.

    Which brings me to my next question. The main reason I didn't buy in January was my failure to make a deal with one of the local subaru dealers. They wanted $500 over TMV for their test mule that had over 250 miles (hard miles, they encouraged agressive driving during the test) on it. So I walked and they never called back. I am not going to name the dealer to try to get some less biased info here. So my question is, what have all y'all's experience been with subaru dealers in the Dallas metro? This inlcudes Central, Huffines, and the Arlington Automall. All input is appreciated.

    TIA for any feedback.
  • cinosweivecinosweive Member Posts: 166
    I've read a lot of posts here from folks getting 2003 rex's below dealer's invoice, nevermind TMV, and a demo at that. Don't blame you for walking. I'm not sure I'd bother going back.
  • WarpDriveWarpDrive Member Posts: 506
    obvious changes in the 2004 models:

    - seats
    - taillights, headlights, foglights, scoop size, bumper
    - in-glass radio antenna
    - darker console color
    - new availability of moonroof, heated seats
    - new gauge cluster
    - electronic brake force distribution logic

    So, mostly cosmetic, and some new options.
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    The front chassis is supposed to be stiffer than the '02-'03 models as well.

    -mike
  • brizeybrizey Member Posts: 48
    What is the difference with the seats?

    My understanding is that the moonroof and heated seats are only available on the sedan, right?

    cino:

    Back in January, I don't think people knew that the 2004's would be out this soon. The indications I had seen during my net investigation said that the 2004's would be about late this summer. The TMV at the time was about $1500 under sticker. So at the time, I would have understood $500 over TMV on a truly brand new car with 4 miles on it. TMV is an average, don't forget. I was trying to get the car under invoice since it was obviously the test car. I have no intentions of driving it after the power train warranty is up, so I wasn't that worried about it being the test mule. IF I could get a great deal.

    Well, now at least I have the opportunity to get the exact setup I am looking for.

    Anyone out there with dealer experiences in Dallas?
  • brizeybrizey Member Posts: 48
    ...is the short-throw shifter worth it? Are there other aftermarket ones that are better (I think Cobb has one)?

    I had a B&M Ripper on my old Mustang Cobra that was awesome. I test drove a 2003 wagon with the subaru short throw, and it felt good, but nothing like the Ripper.

    I guess the big advantage of the subaru unit is no warranty worries.
  • kenskens Member Posts: 5,869
    brizey,

    The seats now have integrated headrests giving them a more "sporty" look. Also, I think the seats were widened just a tad to better accomodate the larger American derriere.

    Yes, the AWP package and sunroof are sedan-only options.

    Ken
  • manavimanavi Member Posts: 150
    You could wait for the Saab 9-2 Aero which is coming next year if you want the AWP and nicer surroundings for your WRX wagon.
  • brizeybrizey Member Posts: 48
    Manavi:

    I have been considering that. I currently drive a '99 Acura 3.2TL that I bought new. I have become used to climate control, etc. But my wife has an integra, and every time I get in it, I realize I really want some sportiness back. As I had said a few posts ago, my car before the TL was a 1997 Mustang Cobra. (Pretty weird taste swings, huh?) I have pretty much decided to move down market a bit and spend less than I did on the TL. I am willing to give up the entry-level luxury tidbits for more fun. With kids around the corner in a year or two, I want something I can cram a car seat into. Four doors is the key here. So, really, the WRX wagon is right up my alley. I can afford an STi, but I just don't want to spend that much on a car again.

    kens:

    Thanks for the info. I was comfortable in the 2003 seats, but I am not exactly narrow, so the 2004 seats may be even better.
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    I wonder if EBD will solve the ABS issue that some people report on bumpy roads. A few even pulled the ABS fuse.

    -juice
  • dsattlerdsattler Member Posts: 135
    Short throw shifter makes a difference. many folks, however, seem to prefer the feel and action of aftermarket shifters, especially the Kart Boy, over Subaru's. You can install it yourself.
  • brizeybrizey Member Posts: 48
    Manavi:

    I have been considering that. I currently drive a '99 Acura 3.2TL that I bought new. I have become used to climate control, etc. But my wife has an integra, and every time I get in it, I realize I really want some sportiness back. As I had said a few posts ago, my car before the TL was a 1997 Mustang Cobra. (Pretty weird taste swings, huh?) I have pretty much decided to move down market a bit and spend less than I did on the TL. I am willing to give up the entry-level luxury tidbits for more fun. With kids around the corner in a year or two, I want something I can cram a car seat into. Four doors is the key here. So, really, the WRX wagon is right up my alley. I can afford an STi, but I just don't want to spend that much on a car again.

    kens:

    Thanks for the info. I was comfortable in the 2003 seats, but I am not exactly narrow, so the 2004 seats may be even better.
  • brizeybrizey Member Posts: 48
    I installed the B&M myself, and if the WRX is similar, i'd feel like an idiot paying someone to do it. Took me less than an hour, including the test drives to check the stops.

    Thanks, I will investigate the Kart Boy.
  • dsattlerdsattler Member Posts: 135
    If you really want to see the pros and cons of every WRX mod available, spend some time at nasioc.com.
  • brizeybrizey Member Posts: 48
    ...for the info guys. I am now brizey on the i-club and nasioc.

    I have entered the fray and started asking for quotes.

    I think I will get my WRX wagon pretty stripped. Maybe just the Peg2 thing and guages. Everything else can be either done better by aftermarket or easily installed myself.

    From whay I have now read, the general consensus is that reflashes are the best bang for your buck.
  • bluesunlionbluesunlion Member Posts: 38
    My personal experience with Central has been neutral to bad. I think from being a long-time Nasioc/i-club member, that the general consensus is to go with Huffines in lewisville.
    Definitely ask around in TXIC on Nasioc. Note: a frequent poster in TXIC is an Employee of Huffines, so you will see some bias from him. However, Huffines seems to be the best bet.
    I originally got a quote from them on-line, but it seemed a little high, but my circumstances changed and a new car was out of the question, so i didn't pursue it any farther.
    (Chris Fleming {ChrisF on Nasioc}is the internet sales guy for Huffines) He is an avid autocrosser, and drives an insanely modified WRX.
    Hope that helps!
    Rachel(sorry for the rambling!)
  • locke2clocke2c Member Posts: 5,038
    insanely modified is an understandment!

    it is covered in an issue of GrassRoots Motorsports... too bad it hit a water truck to the side of the racetrack they were testing on... nearly totalled.

    didn't ever hear if Chris fixed it or transfered the gear to a new car.

    -Colin
  • phsanfordphsanford Member Posts: 1
    Hello All,

    This is my first post as the owner of a squeaky-clean, new 2003 WRX Wagon in Platinum Silver. My car is an automatic, as I'm a handicapped left leg/knee amputee as the result of a very bad motorcycle accident. I'd love to hear from any other disabled WRX drivers, as I don't know any. I just wanted to introduce myself and give a bit of feedback about the WRX as compared to my previous car, a 2001 BMW 330xi:

    I'm still in the break-in period, so I won't comment on the turbo lag or engine power, since I can't rev past 4000 RPM. The handling, though, is a revelation. Even with the stock 16" wheels and tires, the WRX easily outhandles the 330xi. It feels far more connected to the road and much "tighter" than the BMW (if that makes any sense). My only worry is that the suspension gets a bit ruffled on continuously uneven road surfaces. I might spring for the optional STI/SPT suspension in a few months (it gets rave reviews over on nasioc.com).

    The steering effort is wonderful -- substantially heavier than my old 330xi, but not irritatingly so. I am a big guy with a heavy prosthetic left leg and knee, so the interior is a little more "intimate" than my BMW, but the supportive seats are great, and the driving position is just about right.

    I honestly haven't missed the luxury touches from my 330xi, such as a sunroof, heated seats, and automatic climate control. The WRX is so involving and fun to drive that I don't even use the stereo as often as I used to, since I love to hear the engine rev. The only drawbacks to the WRX interior are the depressing, hard dashboard plastic and 1980's Honda Accord-type green gauge illumination. Oh, and would it kill Subaru to make the driver's side window both auto-down and auto-up?

    Other little complaints include the alarmingly weak headlights and the manual radio antenna (that one left me speechless). I had xenon headlights on my 330xi, and I guess they spoiled me. I've already bought a set of LHD projector headlights from the European STI, which will hopefully solve the headlight issue. I'll certainly let everyone know after I install them next week.

    Whoo -- I'm starting to ramble. I apologize for the length of this thread, but I'm very excited about my new wagon. To sum up: as the former owner of a BMW, I can tell you that my WRX is way more fun and much more endearing. My happiness should only increase after break-in.
  • hypovhypov Member Posts: 3,068
    Hi Paul :)
    Congratulations!

    I too have a '03 Silver Wagon [Pebbles] 3,453 miles to date. Need not be eager,... just let the natural compulsion to drive take its course and in no time you're passed the 1k break-in ;-)

    Do let us know your thoughts of the EDM STi headlights.

    -Dave
  • stupendousmanstupendousman Member Posts: 36
    Congrats on your purchase. I'm a bit surprised that you take the WRX headlights to be dim. I'm pretty satisfied with mine. My fiance has a Jetta and those headlits are lousy!!!! I took her car in twice to see if any adjustment would help, but to no avail.

    I agree with you that the WRX is a bit chinzy on the inside. But, at the same time, I am comforted by the fact that the things you touch daily, seats, steering wheel and radio, are incredible ergonomic and comfy. I think I am absolutely spoiled by the WRX seats. Maybe I will take my seat with me on the sad day that I have to sell my car...
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