The Ultimate Guide to Subaru Engine Upgrades
The Subaru community is incredibly diverse. One owner might be building a WRX or STI for maximum speed on the track, while another is equipping their Crosstrek or Forester for a rugged overlanding adventure. What unites them is the desire to improve their vehicle’s performance to match their passion. No matter which model you drive, a well-planned Subaru engine upgrade can completely transform your experience behind the wheel. This guide is for every type of Subaru enthusiast. We’ll explore different build paths and show you how to select the right performance parts to achieve your specific driving goals.
Your Guide to the Subaru EJ255/EJ20 Hybrid Engine Upgrade
Subaru Engine EJ255 EJ20 Hybrid Upgrade Unlock Your Car's Hidden Power. Are you ready to take your Subaru to the next level? With a Subaru engine upgrade, you can unlock hidden power and improve overall performance. In this guide, we'll explore the best ways to enhance your Subaru EJ20 hybrid engine and transform it into a high-performance machine.
Defining Your Build: What's Your Goal?
Before you start adding parts to your cart, it’s crucial to have a clear vision for your Subaru. What do you want your car to do? Defining your goal is the most important step because it dictates every decision you’ll make, from engine components to tires. A well-defined plan ensures you invest in the right upgrades that work together, saving you time and money. Whether you dream of setting personal bests on the track, exploring remote trails, or turning heads on your daily commute, your objective is the blueprint for your project. Let's explore the most common build paths to help you find yours.
Track and Performance Builds
If your goal is to maximize speed and handling, a track and performance build is your path. This approach focuses on making your Subaru faster and more responsive for the street or circuit. You can give your car more power and sharper handling by upgrading key parts. Common starting points include a Cold Air Intake, which feeds cooler, denser air to the engine for more horsepower. For turbocharged models like the WRX and STI, upgrading the turbocharger and intercooler can dramatically increase power. These performance parts are designed to transform your car into a high-performance machine.
Overlanding and Off-Road Builds
For those who hear the call of the wild, an overlanding build prepares your Subaru for adventure. This path prioritizes durability and capability over raw speed, making your vehicle tough enough for rugged terrain. We specialize in parts for models like the Crosstrek and Forester to improve their performance for these exact adventures. Key upgrades often include suspension lifts for greater ground clearance, all-terrain tires for superior grip, and engine protection like skid plates. Our overlanding solutions are engineered to give you the confidence to explore further and tackle challenging landscapes.
Aesthetic Modifications
Sometimes, the goal is to create a car that reflects your personal style. Aesthetic modifications are all about customizing the look and feel of your Subaru, inside and out. You can change your car’s exterior and interior with upgrades like body kits, unique wheels, or supportive racing seats. However, it's important to choose quality parts and have them installed by a professional. Poorly made components can compromise your vehicle's safety and performance. When selecting Subaru WRX upgrades, for example, always prioritize quality to ensure your car looks great without sacrificing its integrity.
What to Know Before Your Subaru Engine Upgrade
Before diving into specific modifications, it's essential to understand what Subaru engine upgrades entail. These upgrades aim to optimize your vehicle's power output while maintaining reliability.
Is an Engine Upgrade Right for You?
An engine upgrade is one of the most effective ways to increase horsepower and torque. Whether you're looking for better acceleration or enhanced fuel efficiency, these modifications can deliver significant results.
Popular Models and Engines for Upgrading
When you're planning an engine upgrade, it helps to know which models have the most aftermarket support. The Subaru WRX and STI are the obvious front-runners, known for their performance-focused engineering and a massive community of enthusiasts. This popularity means you have access to a wide array of Subaru WRX upgrades and parts built to push the limits of the STI, making them perfect platforms for a serious track or street machine. But the fun doesn't stop with the rally icons. Other models offer incredible potential, with the Subaru Crosstrek and Forester becoming favorites for overlanding and off-road builds. Even the versatile Impreza can be transformed with the right components. Choosing the right performance parts allows you to tailor your vehicle to your driving style, delivering significant improvements in power and responsiveness.
Essential Parts for a Successful Upgrade
To achieve optimal performance, focus on key components like turbochargers, intercoolers, and exhaust systems. Each part plays a crucial role in maximizing your engine's potential.
Engine Internals: Pistons, Rods, and Blocks
When you start adding serious power, the stock internals of your engine become the weakest link. To build a reliable, high-horsepower Subaru, you need to strengthen its core. This means upgrading to forged pistons and connecting rods that can handle increased pressure and heat without failing. For those aiming for the highest performance levels, a fully built short block is the ultimate foundation. At Crawford Performance, we specialize in constructing robust engine blocks designed for everything from daily driving to competitive racing, ensuring your engine can handle whatever you throw at it. Our expertise in engine tuning and building is backed by a unique 12-month/12,000-mile warranty, giving you confidence in your build.
Fuel System Upgrades
More air from a bigger turbo requires more fuel to maintain a safe air-to-fuel ratio. Your stock fuel system can only supply so much, and pushing it past its limit can lead to a lean condition, which is a fast track to engine damage. Upgrading to high-flow fuel injectors and a higher-capacity fuel pump is essential for any serious performance build. These components ensure your engine receives the precise amount of fuel it needs to make consistent, reliable power. This is a critical supporting modification that allows your other performance parts to function safely and effectively, letting you get the most out of your new setup.
Cooling System Enhancements
Making more power generates more heat, and your factory cooling system might struggle to keep up, especially under demanding conditions like a track day or a long trail climb. An overheated engine loses power and risks serious damage. Upgrading to a larger, more efficient intercooler helps cool the compressed air from the turbo, while an aftermarket radiator improves the engine's overall temperature regulation. For models like the Subaru WRX and STI, which are often pushed to their limits, a robust cooling system is not just an upgrade—it's a necessity for maintaining performance and protecting your investment.
Oiling System Protection
Proper lubrication is absolutely vital for your engine's health, and this becomes even more critical in a modified Subaru. During aggressive driving, oil can slosh around, potentially starving the engine of lubrication. An upgraded oiling system is your best defense. Installing an Air/Oil Separator (AOS) is one of the most important modifications you can make, as it prevents oil from entering your intake and lowering your fuel's octane. For those who frequent the track or tackle tough terrain, adding an oil cooler or a high-capacity oil pan helps manage temperatures and ensures a consistent supply of oil, protecting your engine from premature wear.
Upgraded Engine Mounts
Your engine mounts are the direct connection between your powerhouse and the car's chassis. Stock mounts are designed for comfort, allowing for a fair amount of engine movement. When you start increasing power, this movement can feel sloppy and result in less efficient power transfer to the wheels. Upgraded, stiffer engine mounts significantly reduce this movement. The result is a more direct and connected feel, improved throttle response, and better handling during hard acceleration and cornering. It’s a straightforward modification that makes a noticeable difference in how your Subaru Crosstrek or Forester feels on and off the road.
Top Performance Upgrades for Your Subaru Engine
There are several popular upgrades available for Subaru engines. Below, we'll discuss some of the most impactful options.
Upgrading Your Turbocharger
A larger or ball-bearing turbocharger can significantly boost airflow into the engine, delivering more horsepower and torque. Pairing this upgrade with supporting modifications ensures safe operation and maximum output.
Installing a Cold Air Intake
A cold air intake brings colder, denser air into the engine, improving combustion and increasing efficiency. This cost-effective modification provides noticeable improvements in both power and sound.
Upgrading Your Exhaust System
Optimizing your Subaru's breathing capabilities starts with upgrading its exhaust system. Here are some advanced options to consider:
- Cat-back exhaust systems reduce back pressure and improve exhaust flow.
- Upgraded downpipes allow exhaust gases to exit the turbo faster, reducing lag.
- Header upgrades balance exhaust pulses and enhance overall engine output.
These modifications not only boost performance but also add a deeper, more aggressive sound to your driving experience.
Improving Your Subaru's Braking Power
Once you've increased your engine's horsepower, it's just as important to address your car's ability to stop. Upgrading your braking system isn't just about performance; it's a critical safety measure that ensures you have complete control, whether you're on the track, a winding back road, or a challenging off-road trail. A powerful engine needs equally powerful brakes to match, providing the confidence to push your Subaru to its limits safely. From simple pad and rotor swaps to comprehensive big brake kits, there are several ways to get the stopping power you need for your build.
Performance Brake Pads and Rotors
For many Subaru owners, the first step in improving braking is upgrading the brake pads and rotors. High-performance pads offer a better bite and are made from compounds that resist fade at higher temperatures. When you pair them with upgraded rotors, such as slotted or drilled versions, the benefits multiply. These designs are engineered to dissipate heat more effectively and clear away gas and debris from between the pad and rotor surface. This results in shorter stopping distances and more consistent, reliable braking, which is essential whether you're navigating city traffic or descending a steep trail in your Crosstrek.
Big Brake Kits (BBK)
If you're serious about track days or have made significant power upgrades, a Big Brake Kit (BBK) is the ultimate solution. A BBK replaces your stock calipers and rotors with much larger, more robust components. The larger multi-piston calipers provide stronger, more even clamping force, while the bigger rotors offer a larger surface area to absorb and shed heat. This combination drastically reduces brake fade during repeated hard stops and gives you incredible stopping power on demand. Investing in a BBK for your Subaru WRX or STI is a great way to ensure your braking system can handle the demands of high-performance driving.
Improving Your Subaru's Suspension and Handling
Enhancing your Subaru's suspension and handling ensures it performs at its best in every condition. Consider the following upgrades:
Choosing the Right Coilovers
Adjustable coilovers provide precise control over ride height and stiffness, allowing for improved handling during spirited drives.
How Sway Bars Improve Handling
Thicker sway bars reduce body roll during cornering, offering sharper handling and better responsiveness.
Adding Strut braces for Chassis Rigidity
To really tie your suspension upgrades together, consider adding strut braces. These simple yet effective components connect the strut towers in your engine bay or trunk, making the entire chassis stiffer. Why does that matter? A stiffer frame reduces flex when you're cornering hard, which helps maintain your wheel alignment and gives you a much more direct and predictable steering feel. Think of it as giving your car's skeleton a bit more support. When you install strut braces alongside coilovers and sway bars, you create a comprehensive handling package that makes your Subaru feel incredibly planted and responsive, whether you're on a winding road or the track.
Tuning Your Subaru: Putting It All Together
Tuning is a critical step in achieving optimal performance from your Subaru engine upgrade. Here are two popular tuning options:
Using an Accessport for Easy Tuning
The Cobb Accessport allows you to flash preloaded performance maps or create custom tunes for your car. Its real-time diagnostics and data monitoring make it an essential tool for serious modifiers.
Managing Power with a Boost Controller
A boost controller manages turbo pressure for consistent and optimized performance. Combine this with professional tuning for safe operation.
Your Subaru Upgrade Questions Answered
With the right Subaru engine upgrade, you can unlock your car's hidden power and enjoy a more engaging driving experience. From turbocharger enhancements to suspension improvements, each modification contributes to a high-performance machine. For example, the Crawford Built Subaru Performance Short Block WRX EJ255 EJ20 Hybrid offers a reliable foundation for your build. Check out our short block solution to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to common questions about Subaru engine upgrades:
What Are the Benefits of an Engine Upgrade?
Upgrades improve horsepower, torque, and overall efficiency, resulting in better acceleration and fuel economy.
How Much Does an Upgrade Cost?
Pricing varies depending on the modifications chosen. Simple upgrades like cold air intakes are affordable, while more complex changes may require a larger investment.
Will an Upgrade Void My Warranty?
Some upgrades may affect your warranty. Always consult with a professional installer to ensure compliance with manufacturer guidelines.
Important Considerations for Your Build
Once you have a goal in mind for your Subaru, it's easy to get swept up in the excitement of ordering parts. But before you fill up your shopping cart, there are a few practical things to think about. Planning for these details from the start will save you headaches down the road and ensure your build is successful, safe, and reliable. From who installs your parts to how they affect your warranty, taking a moment to consider the bigger picture is a crucial step in any modification journey. Let's walk through what you need to keep in mind to make sure your project goes smoothly from start to finish.
Why Professional Installation Matters
While tackling a project yourself can be rewarding, certain upgrades are best left to the experts. Choosing high-quality parts is only half the battle; having them installed by people who know Subarus inside and out is crucial for success. A professional technician can ensure every component is fitted correctly, torqued to spec, and integrated properly with your car's existing systems. They can also spot potential issues you might miss, preventing costly damage. For something as critical as engine work, relying on expert tuning services and installation gives you confidence that your investment is protected and performing at its peak potential.
Staying Safe and Street Legal
As you modify your Subaru, it's important to think about safety and follow the law. Performance upgrades can sometimes push the boundaries of what's permissible for a daily driver. Before installing parts like a new exhaust or downpipe, check your local and state regulations regarding emissions and noise levels. Many high-performance components are designated for "off-road use only" for this reason. Making sure your modifications are compliant with local rules not only keeps you out of legal trouble but also ensures your vehicle remains safe for you and others on the road. A responsible build is a smart build.
Understanding Part and Engine Warranties
A common concern for any owner is how modifications will impact the vehicle's factory warranty. It's true that some upgrades can affect your coverage. A dealership must prove that an aftermarket part directly caused a specific failure to deny a warranty claim, but it's still a situation most people want to avoid. This is another area where consulting with a professional installer is a great idea, as they can advise on which modifications are less likely to cause issues. Furthermore, reputable manufacturers of performance parts often stand behind their products with their own warranties, offering an extra layer of security.
The Crawford Performance 12-Month/12,000-Mile Engine Warranty
Investing in a built engine is a major step, and it's natural to want assurance that your money is well spent. That's why we offer a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on our engines. This warranty provides peace of mind for anyone investing in our high-performance upgrades. It’s our commitment to quality and a testament to the confidence we have in our engineering and assembly process. When you choose a Crawford-built engine, you're not just getting power and performance; you're getting a promise of reliability backed by decades of experience in the Subaru world.
Key Takeaways
- Define your build path first: Decide if you're building for the track, trail, or street to ensure every part you buy serves a specific purpose and works in harmony with your other upgrades.
- Upgrade supporting systems for reliability: More power creates more stress, so enhance your braking, cooling, and fueling systems to safely manage the increased performance and protect your engine.
- Rely on professional installation and tuning: High-quality parts perform best when installed correctly and paired with a proper engine tune, which is the final step to making all your components work together safely and effectively.