Subaru Engine Mods: 7 Best Upgrades to Boost Performance

Looking to extract more power and reliability from your Subaru? Subaru engine mods offer a proven path to substantially boost performance while maintaining the durability these vehicles are famous for. Whether you own a WRX, STI, or Forester with engines like the FA20 or EJ25, upgrading key components such as forged pistons, turbo kits, and performance camshafts will transform your driving experience. This extensive guide covers seven of the best Subaru engine mods designed to maximize horsepower, torque, and throttle response without sacrificing reliability. Let’s dive into the most effective upgrades that have become staples among Subaru enthusiasts and what makes each one critical for a high-performance engine build.

Understanding Subaru Engine Mods: Where to Start

Why Choose Subaru Engine Mods?

Subaru’s boxer engines, including popular variants such as the iag subaru engines, are renowned for their balance and performance potential. However, stock internals and factory turbo setups often limit their capabilities for enthusiasts seeking more power. Subaru engine mods allow you to push your engine’s limits safely, improving power output, drivability, and longevity. With modifications tailored to your particular engine—whether it’s an EJ20, EJ25, or FA20—you can unlock significant gains.

Key Engines for Performance Mods

• EJ20: Known for its use in older WRX models, this engine benefits greatly from forged internals like ej20 forged pistons and enhanced wastegate setups like the ej20 external wastegate.
• EJ25: The larger displacement variant powering many WRX and STI models. Upgrading parts such as the ej25 sohc performance camshaft, ej25 performance parts, and stronger pistons like the manley pistons sti is popular for reliable power increases.
• FA20: Found in newer WRXs and BRZs, this direct-injection engine is increasingly modified with kits like the fa20 forged internals kit and components including the fa20 external wastegate for precise boost control.

1. Upgrading to Subaru Forged Pistons for Reliability and Power

Benefits of Forged Pistons

Forged pistons are essential for building a durable, high-horsepower Subaru engine. Unlike cast pistons, forged variants endure higher combustion pressures and temperatures, reducing the risk of failure during aggressive tuning. Subaru forged pistons, whether from Manley or OEM-quality suppliers, deliver enhanced strength and allow for higher boost levels and RPMs with peace of mind.

Popular Forged Piston Options

• EJ20 forged pistons: Ideal for turbocharged versions eligible for power upgrades, paired with ej20 external wastegate kits to optimize boost control.
• FA20 forged pistons: Found in latest Subaru WRXs and BRZs, often included in the comprehensive fa20 forged internals kit for fully built FA20 engine mods.
• Subaru STI forged pistons: Designed specifically for high-boost STIs with compatible performance camshafts and turbo kits.

2. Camshaft Upgrades: Boost Valve Timing for More Power

Performance Cams for Subaru Engines

Camshafts control valve timing and lift, which directly influences engine breathing and power output. The ej25 sohc performance camshaft is a popular upgrade for enhancing mid-to-high RPM power in SOHC engines without sacrificing drivability. For DOHC engines like the FA20, upgraded cams allow for increased airflow, contributing to better combustion and horsepower gains.

Matching Cams with Other Engine Mods

To get the most out of cam upgrades, combine with forged internals and proper tuning. Performance cams work best alongside forced induction modifications such as the iag rotated turbo kit or ej257 turbo upgrade. This ensures the engine can breathe effectively and handle higher boost pressures.

3. Turbocharger and Supercharger Upgrades: Unlocking Boost Potential

Popular Turbo Upgrades

Turbo upgrades remain some of the most impactful Subaru engine mods for power increase. Upgrading the stock turbo or adding an iag rotated turbo kit can reduce turbo lag and dramatically increase boost. Additionally, upgraded wastegates like the fa20 external wastegate and ej20 external wastegate provide better boost control and reliability.

Supercharger Considerations

For those with EJ257 engines, particularly in newer WRX models, a ej257 supercharger or enhanced 2018 wrx supercharger can improve throttle response and torque delivery. Superchargers offer linear power delivery compared to turbochargers, making them suited for street-focused builds and daily driving with added performance.

4. Engine Tuning and Management for Optimal Performance

iag Performance Tuning Solutions

Proper engine tuning is crucial once you've installed Subaru engine mods. The iag performance tuning platform offers high-quality ECU tunes that optimize fuel maps, ignition timing, and boost control tailored to specific hardware upgrades. This ensures your engine runs safely and efficiently at increased performance levels.

Custom Tuning for Advanced Builds

For serious enthusiasts, custom tuning allows adjustments for every modification, including cams, turbo upgrades, and forged internals. Precision tuning helps prevent engine knock, overheating, and unnecessary wear, protecting your investment and maximizing power gains.

5. Short Blocks and Internal Engine Parts: The Heart of Your Build

iag Subaru Short Block

The foundation of any high-performance Subaru build often starts with a reinforced short block. The iag subaru short block offers a balanced solution with forged pistons, upgraded rods, and matching components engineered to withstand high boost levels and aggressive driving conditions.

Supporting Internal Parts

Alongside pistons and rods, internal parts like high-performance bearings, gaskets, and cam sprockets also matter. Components from brands like Manley and JE Pistons are popular choices. These upgrades ensure your engine internals work harmoniously for durability and maximum output.

6. Engine Dress Up: Style Meets Function

2016 and 2018 WRX Engine Dress Up Parts

While performance is paramount, finishing your build with stylish engine dress-up parts enhances the aesthetic under the hood. Popular options include billet aluminum caps, fluid reservoirs, and tie-downs from reputable brands that fit your specific Subaru model. The 2016 wrx engine dress up and 2018 wrx engine dress up kits not only look great but often offer better durability and heat resistance than stock parts.

Why Dress Up Matters

Engine dress-up also aids heat management and accessibility during maintenance. Upgrading to high-quality, visually appealing parts adds a professional finish to your build and reflects the care you put into performance upgrades.

7. Supporting Performance Parts to Complement Your Engine Mods

• Fuel System Upgrades: Increased boost requires more fuel. Upgrading injectors and fuel pumps ensures a safe fuel-to-air ratio.
• Cooling Enhancements: Aftermarket intercoolers and radiators help keep engine temps in check during aggressive driving.
• Exhaust System: High-flow exhausts paired with ej205 performance parts or custom headers reduce backpressure and improve power delivery.
• Engine Mounts: Upgraded mounts reduce engine movement and improve throttle response, especially when combined with modifications like the fb20 performance parts.

Each upgrade plays a vital role in ensuring your Subaru operates smoothly with enhanced performance, while maintaining reliability and drivability on both street and track.

In summary, Subaru engine mods encompass a range of upgrades from forged pistons and camshafts to turbo and supercharger kits, complemented by precise tuning and quality internal components. Whether you are upgrading an EJ20 with forged internals and an external wastegate or building an FA20 with performance engine parts and tuning, these seven core mods set a solid foundation for a powerful, reliable build. Ready to elevate your Subaru's performance? Explore the latest parts and expert tuning solutions today to unlock your vehicle’s true potential with trusted Subaru engine mods.