6 Mods That Are A Waste Of Money For A Daily Driver

In this video we cover six different mods that are a waste of money for your daily driver. You may mod your cars like I do but sometimes that money can be better spent in other aspects of the car. Keep in mind that these are my opinions, and if you disagree or agree with anything on the list drop it in the comments and lets talk about it! However; over the past 10 Years of playing with cars these are all areas that are wasteful!
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[@thatonedude3312]

6 Mods That Are A Waste Of Money For A Daily Driver 6. quick release steering wheel 0:43 5. fixed back seat/race harness 2:56 4. high flow panel air filters 5:19 3. turbo timers (on watercooled turbos) 6:36 2. useless aero 8:24 1. fake vents/shrouds 10:34

[@Smeedia]

🔥🔥🔥

[@andrewregard7250]

You the real MVP

[@greggorman3656]

clutch

[@jaggerjdm9787]

yes but think about how cool all of those make your car look

[@Smeedia]

All the hot boi points

[@tallness2008]

The people downvoting this video are the types to buy an Autozone hood scoop and stick it to their roof. 🤣🤣🤣

[@Smeedia]

I hope no one falls that deep into the wrongful mods 😅

[@user-dx9jr4pz2y]

@@Smeedia please help

[@Smeedia]

Whats up 👀

[@NapFloridian]

I bought a scoop at Autozone and clued it onto the Roof... whats wrong with that? Its may money and I spend it how I want...

[@user-dx9jr4pz2y]

@@NapFloridian help me with food

[@kablaam1000]

Engineering explained did a video on filters for his Crosstrek and made almost 5hp more than oem filter.

[@Smeedia]

I'll have to check that one out 🔥

[@tjbroomfield2024]

Was going to bring this up; upvoted.

[@DC-rq1xl]

This is true. Tested a BMC filter on a bone stock GTI and it averaged 8hp increase on a MAHA Dyno.

[@Boondocks088]

What oil filter do you recommend? 😳

[@messmeister92]

5 HP is not worth a fight with your Subaru dealer if something goes wrong.

[@scottymonochrome3795]

Favorite Mods for my Daily: -Custom Reupholstery (seats, floorliner, headliner) -Upgraded Sub+Speakers -Wheels/Tires -Window Tint -Piggyback Tuner (1 map for MPG, 1 map for racing, 1 map for friends/family)

[@Smeedia]

Tint is a good one to add, no one likes driving in a fishbowl

[@scottymonochrome3795]

@@Smeedia It's so important to ask your installer 'how will this affect driving at night'; saved me a couple $$$ going with a less dark tint than I thought I wanted.

[@dandingerat]

@@scottymonochrome3795 Look into light sensitive tint that can change opacity depending on light ( darker in sun )

[@tracklizard4018]

@@Smeedia I love super clear windows!

[@Smeedia]

Wanted to correct myself, I do retract what I said about the drop in filters. I totally spaced that they are resuable and cleanable. Although power numbers are still inflated 🤷‍♂️

[@freddysevolution9]

Point of getting them is cost effective. $80 for 10 years is a plus rather than change a disposable one every year for $25

[@LunasLostLove]

shame about the power not being as advertised. i kinda like the idea of keeping the stock airbox.

[@brandonolson1959]

Was looking for thus comment

[@sandpai5398]

frfr it's good you mentioned the safety with quick disconnect steering, bucket seats etc.

[@Smeedia]

Theyre not meant for street applications and can be mkre dangerous than they are in a real world accident. Wouldn't want to see anyone get hurt!

[@sandpai5398]

@@seemlesslies yes good points

[@quintonholley5923]

Jacob Ingram They also aren’t designed for use without a helmet and neck brace deal. They don’t stretch in an accident (as commercial 3 points do which is why you are supposed to replace them after a bad accident) so you can really mess up/snap your neck.

[@cameronortega4475]

When your daily is so old the steering wheel doesn’t have a steering wheel air bag 😈

[@Smeedia]

🔥🔥🔥

[@melvinmercurio5290]

drive like an old lady. be safe.

[@TacticalBunnyCA]

That “DOHC i V-TECH” sticker will make your ‘95 d15 Civic so fast!

[@Smeedia]

+32 WHP

[@ce4162]

I agree with you about the seat. Those seats looks cool, but is so uncomfortable especially on look trips. And it’s hard to get head while driving on those seats.

[@rokstartobby123]

As a frs owner. The drop in air filter has been proven to be true. 1. For the K&N drop in filter dyno results do show a +5 peak hp gain. But 2. Dyno sheets do show that CAI do less or just as much as a drop in filter. So you're wasting more money for something that makes as much as a high flow filter. And 3. You save money by not having to change the filter, just wash it and you're good to go.

[@JoshDTech]

Instead of speed I would focus on comfort on the daily driver.

[@HavokStrifeX]

Great list! I was so guilty of the air filters when I was ricing out Hondas. I so believed it added 5-10 HP to my NA 140 HP Integra. 🤣🤣 I actually watched your splitter mounting videos after bring up aero. You did that install soooooo professional. Usually any "car specific" pre drilled body panel is no where near right and needs a ton of work. I did get a kick out of the Neon having just about all of these. 🤫

[@Smeedia]

Haha the poor neon 😅 it needs a some attention to get it proper again. And I'm all for aero mods just as long as they're mounted properly l. And we've all been guilty of some of these mods 😅

[@nathanfarrell1116]

absolutely loving how frequent these vids are! just bought an 08 impreza myself

[@Smeedia]

Thank you! And hatchback or sedan?! 🔥😁

[@nathanfarrell1116]

@@Smeedia Gold Hatchback NA Manual, cant wait for smeedia stickers

[@802Garage]

This came up on my suggestions page. Just found the channel and definitely subscribed. Super high quality video! I also agree with you on every account. For example, I run cheap paper panel filters on my car. High pleat count and preferably with a metal mesh. My K&N filter was very disappointing and got my intake oily. People say they are over oiled from factory, but either way I don't think they are worth the cost at all. Plus the paper filters I just blow out with compressed air! Spot on with the steering wheel and seat too. Lots of discomfort and reduced safety. Just get some OEM upgrades from a later car, especially with Subaru.

[@Smeedia]

Appreciate the support and the feedback! 😁🔥 I'm just not a huge fan or removong some of the saftet aspects of the car if someone will be constantly driving them on the street 😅

[@mattholmes8214]

When I needed a new panel filter I was recommended an HKS super hybrid. Totally worth the price being washable and it even fit the airbox better than the OEM filter. It's probably saved me money in the long run instead of buying new oems every 6 months.

[@Smeedia]

I totally spaced on thr cleaning and reusabiliry aspect of panel filters, retract my statements about them with the exception of manufacturers inflating their numbers 🔥

[@supercattelephone]

the only issue I have with them is that I hear since they are "higher flow" most people don't understand that also means they do less filtering and more debris can get into your engine. I understand most people using them clean them regularly and probably don't mind but for daily drivers I still think it might be a bit of a waste.

[@mattholmes8214]

@@supercattelephone just because they flow more doesn't mean they do less filtering. A filter can be made with better materials and design and flow more while still being an effective and efficient filter.

[@Black16STI]

Not gonna lie, just drove 2.5 hours back from the track today and my Sparco QRT Evo seat is wayyyyy comfier than my stock STI seat.

[@Smeedia]

Some aftermarket seats are not too bad, some that ive had are awful. I use to have the Sparco sprints a few years back and they wrecked me 😂

[@Black16STI]

@@Smeedia I don't doubt it. I added some additional cushions and the thing cradles you nicely. I will say, when i do go to the store or drive it around town, it's not the most graceful getting out..... but #racecar.

[@WRXMAN-ms2mm]

Interesting list and perspective on ineffective mods for a daily driver. By and large I agree 👍 with you and especially agree on steering wheels and keeping the “life saving” airbag. Regarding seats if premium brands don’t use hard as a rock 🧱 racing seats for daily drivers there is probably a dam good reason or reasons. With regards to high flow drop in air filters in the OEM box I somewhat agree where you are talking one time use. Save your $$$. A reusable high flow “dry” filter from a manufacturer like Grimmspeed (“Dry Con”) I think is a different cat, especially when you consider the testing protocol they used, no smoke and mirrors.

[@Smeedia]

As long as there is some proof into what the panel filters are doing I can justify it if it is also re usable and one that you can clean. 🔥

[@alendjurdjevic5478]

Well delivered and well said! Keep up the great work and looking forward to your next video 😀!

[@Smeedia]

Thank you! Appreciate the support 🔥😁

[@dmino]

Truth. I loved all of your comments and I wish more people would listen to this logic. Thank you!

[@Smeedia]

Apprefiate the support snd trying to help out where I can 🙌

[@losdc5185]

Those Shoe laces being so long is a pointless converse mod😂😂. I’m always doing double knots to keep em short 😭

[@Smeedia]

I need to cut them but everytime I do they turn into like 40 shoe laces because they fall apart 😅

[@freerider8737]

@@Smeedia use a lighter/open flame and itll melt the ends shut. your welcome

[@Smeedia]

Ohhhhh you right 🔥

[@mknugget1628]

Me: feeling attacked as I watch this on lunch in my 02 wrx that has fixed back bucket seats and a quick release... Also Me: Hes not wrong tho....

[@Smeedia]

Theyre not bad mods to have, just not the best for a daily or street car 😅 Also whats for lunch? 👀

[@sammylam1649]

quick release steering isn't so bad for daily cars tho. whenever you park the car you can just pop it off and bring it with you into the house/workplace or just hide it in the trunk to deter any car thieves

[@Smeedia]

What if a car theif brings his own steering wheel? 👀 Its more or less the safety aspect or removing air bags and driving around public roads with them off.

[@sammylam1649]

@@Smeedia what are the chances of that happening? i doubt car thieves will be that "professional", especially in my country. idk about the us tho

[@Turtle_Legs]

@@sammylam1649 I used to take the steering, tires and engine with me into work, but one day my idea was foiled by a steering wheel, tire, engine carrying thief. They're becoming smart my man!

[@vballwise]

The street vs track car idea is partially why I’m happy staying at Stage 2. There’s no point dumping thousands of dollars more into my STI before getting used to the current power on a track.

[@Smeedia]

Agreexd, fond the weak points of the car and go from there 🔥

[@ceetee69]

As always, very helpful content

[@Smeedia]

Working on that one, easier said than done but should be out next week 😁

[@justcamping]

Great video as always. Now , how about 6 mods that are worth doing for DD, and maybe in order, like suspensions before turbo or exhaust. I did the AOS first on my 2015 STI and thinking oil cooler before changing the top mount and opting for front mount inter cooler . Peace 👍

[@Smeedia]

I like it and will make it 🙌 nice to have the polar opposites 🔥😁

[@codykamminga9667]

The air filter one is good in my opinion, K&N are highflow. They don’t need to be replaced like normal filters, which can save you money, because you don’t need to keep replacing your airfilter, buy a K&N for €50 and clean it every 40k miles for like €5 per clean, or get a new one every 10k for 10-15, after 50k miles, you are cheaper off with a K&N and it basically has free better airflow

[@Smeedia]

I retracted what i said abkut the drop in filters in a few comments. I overlooked the fact they can be cleaned 😖

[@bsiccs]

Push a car by rotating the tires rather than pushing the whole car. It’s easier. Don’t remember where I learned that, but it’ll save your legs, arm, and back a lot of aches.

[@Smeedia]

Started doing this and it's a life saver!

[@ChriswithaCrc]

Agree with all of the above , so many cars driven around in my local town that just add aero and splitters that do sod all . Yes they look cool but they can actually effect handling in a negative way .

[@ahhh6201]

Im really happy that in this video you acknowledged that its ok to do things to do YOUR car just for looks. Too much shaming going on from both the aesthetic and performance sides of the car scene a lot of the time.

[@Smeedia]

Oh yes by all means, your car your moneh do what you wish, some people do some of the mods for the looks and there is nothing wrong with that at all 🔥 just trying to help people avoid buying the cheaper variant to only buy the functional one later on so they're not double spending on the same part. I've done it before and have wasted enough money that I hope I can helo someone avoid the same pitfall 😅

[@donellmecca.booker5969]

i totally agree with everything you said for most cars.. on that note most use harnesses to hold them in the seat in order to retain a normal/stock seat. and us old schooler's dont have air bags and the steering wheels are not in the optimal position if your taller than your average jdm driver same applies to the seat. and life isnt alwayys comfortable..lol love the vids my guy

[@Smeedia]

You got me with the older car aspect, if theyre not there then by all means I day go for it. 😅 appreciate the support 🙏

[@laplanap]

Great advice-subbed👊🏼

[@Smeedia]

Appreciate the support 🙌😁

[@Kichizo_DJ]

Pretty spot on honestly. I’m guilty of hot boy qr wheel and fake aero lol 😂 but that qr steering wheel is nice when you need to eat inside the car lol but my driver side seat is broken so it is like a cheap fixed racing seat 😂 another thing with qr wheel for everyone else it’s a little bit of a pain that the wheel is so now far from all the blinker and whipper controls. Factionfab makes good steering wheels if you need to switch it out. Good video wish I saw this before I did the qr set up lol 😂

[@Smeedia]

I saw that they have a relocation set up for thr wipers and blinkers to bring them closer 🔥 and jve done it as well my old 350Z had everything that I mentioned on this list (except the turbo timer) lol 😅

[@MohammedShahid694]

I agree.. just the quick release I would use for security..my car ain't a daily nor track lol. But still a street car.. good vid

[@Smeedia]

What if a theif brought their own wheel 😉 lol jk but they can be a good security measure too

[@MohammedShahid694]

@@Smeedia nrg sell cover that locks into the quick release so no1 can use another wheel ..

[@MohammedShahid694]

@@Smeedia too many damn car thieves where I'm from.. lol

[@mattij3814]

For what it’s worth, certain drop in air filters have been dyno proven to make a significant increase in power (by significant I mean not within the noise, 3-5 hp). Engineering explained has a video on it for example. Absolutely worth it on a stock air box in my opinion though I’ve never run one

[@SimpleChigga]

Best mods: Neon lights Carbon fibre hood Big obnoxious spoiler Rocket bunny kit

[@Smeedia]

*Lamborghini doors

[@SimpleChigga]

@@Smeedia oh i forgot

[@saigoneze4465]

loving the new place Tanner .The old garage used to do my head in the way the sti was crammed inside like that lol .I agree for a street car i don't know why ppl take the airbag wheel off._Im guilty i have a k and n panel filter in my stock airbox but i got it mainly cause i don't have to replace it anymore until i get the cai installed.I always keep the car running for at least 45seconds after a spirited drive otherwise i just turn it off.And i never understand why ppl like to spend $300 for two tiny carbon fibre canards etc like you say so much better things to buy performance wise etc

[@Smeedia]

We have all fallen guilty to these mods in thr past, hopefully I can help others avoid some of the pitfalls 🔥 😁

[@sixstrz8310]

On the fix back i have mixed feelings recently bought one for my 18 wrx plan on occasionally tracking it haven’t had the chance to but as far as just driving it on the street yes it is annoying getting in and out of the car but other then that this seat hugs you in more you can literally feel the car move better because your more in control and it’s more comfortable then the oem the oem also moved me around way to much to the point where I didn’t even realize that it was going to even improve the sharpness of just regular day to day Turning into lanes on public roads there’s turns that feel like nothing compared to when I had the oem seat

[@alecmillea4539]

I agree on everything but the panel filters. It has been shown through multiple different unbiased third party tests that a high quality K&N filter will add power and help acceleration to a measurable and consistent degree. In addition the fact they are washable and reusable means that they work out cheaper if you plan on keeping the car for longer than 3 years. An aftermarket intake will likely make a larger difference but also means more nvh, cost and potential for complications. Also the car should really be retuned, which dramatically adds to the cost involved if you want to retain good reliability.

[@jonathanvalencia1843]

i had a brz and swapping the steering wheel was one of the best choices i ever made , it saved my head and my life, someone took a light and caused me to t bone them and luckily the airbag didn’t mess my head up worse… let alone me hitting the wheel

[@MrGamzar321]

I just watched your things to not do with a boosted car video and im in love with your channel lol

[@Smeedia]

Eyyy thank you Shane!

[@pab3783]

Tanner, what about big stock location turbos (FP Black etc)? To each his own (I remember your yellow STI with the FP Black), but having an anemic power-band below 5k RPM is not great for daily traffic. Yes, I think about a bigger turbo but think I'll regret it if I do. Any thoughts?

[@Smeedia]

Honestly the black was a far better dd turbo than my rotated set up. Was actually usable power. Even an FP Green or red would be a great choice

[@pab3783]

@@Smeedia cool. Good to know. Thanks man. Always appreciate your feedback.

[@Eagleye11700]

Glad I haven’t wasted my money on any of those thanks for the reassurance haha

[@Smeedia]

😁😁😁😁

[@michaelm3330]

what about swapping the heat shield for a turbo blanket and wrapping the downpipe on the fa20dit stock turbo? question is coming from Texas, btw, ambient is typical 90's for half the year, oil temp for freeway is about 205, wondering if it'd make a noticeable enough drop in engine bay heat and increase air density enough to justify spending and prolonging saving for stage tuning

[@jeromeflaherty2069]

Totally agree on the drop in panel filter. Total waste of money and in a lot of cases actually worse if the MAF is super close to an oiled filter.

[@connordunckel6905]

#3 just get a k&n, like $50 but you never have to buy another one

[@Smeedia]

To an extent, you can only clean them so many times. But not a bad option, did not even think of that

[@connordunckel6905]

@@Smeedia overall it still costs less, supposed to filter better but I could care less oem does plenty good

[@winnguyensituation47]

@@Smeedia Also, for the brz/86 specifically, Bob from Drift Office says that a high flow drop in filter is all you need up to a certain WHP since it's designed well from factory. I pretty much only did headers, K&N filter, and a tune from bob when I had an 86 to get rid of the torque dip and a tiny bit more power.

[@s8n469]

I went with a K&N, just so I dont have to fight with the stock air box (as much).

[@mendez_guzman9661]

Thank you.

[@BChobo1]

Good info about the turbo timer! I have a friend that keeps trying to push that for me. Now I can tell him what you said because it makes sense!!!! Whoooooo

[@Smeedia]

Anytime! And they're fairly pointless for most cars. Appreciate the support 🙌

[@B0RAT012]

My car has a factory turbo timer, I can set the switch to either 1 minute or 3 minutes but the turbo timer will only activate if it's at a certain temperature.

[@ace-qi9pj]

With a turbo car u need to let the oil recirculate out of the turbo when its really hot. If u get the turbo really hot and park it the oil sits and sluges everything up. Its more to prolong the life of ur turbo. Can u get by without 1 sure. If u have one ur turbo will last way longer so its not pointless.

[@KuyaPow626]

How does one properly use the front fog light vents? Are you saying we gotta buy some ductwork and route it into the wheel shrouds or something?

[@andres_chartreux]

I once installed a high flow filter and let me tell you my car was happier than ever!!! ....... Maybe it had something to do with the fact the oem filter was never replaced by the first owner, and it was full of crap?... yeah, most likely that...

[@jordansaldana2046]

Very true but for some daily driven or street cars there are some factors that prove some of these useful. In my instance I just got my first car and it was one of my dream cars as a little kid, a almost near perfectly stock 1998 Mitsubishi eclipse gst. Except that I am 6'1" and weigh 280lbs and the 2g dsm cars are very small and generally low cars from the factory and every time I get in I'm breaking my knees and back. I also hit the top of my head almost every time with the oem steering wheel and seats, so to me a quick release steering wheel would very much be worth the money. #1 being it would give me much needed space to get in and out and allow me to stop the awkward and sometimes painful positions needed for me to get in and out #2 it will also help me put my mind at ease every time I leave my car unattended as it is an old car and a big fear of mine is it being stolen so to be able to easily and quickly remove the steering wheel and take it inside with me when I'm at home or at a friends or family members place and being able to hide it behind the back seat when I'm at a store or in the trunk since the trunk is an arms length away from me being in the drivers seat really makes that money spent well worth it

[@Smeedia]

I could see the struggles with it and they do prove to be efficient and effective theft detursnts. Ive just seen too many accidents where either an air bag has saved someone's life or from them removing it ended it. Don't wanna see anyone get hurt. Sounds like a fun car and stay safe out there! 🙏🔥

[@clappin.cheeks]

Hey man great video! I was wondering how it is to daily a car with aftermarket hood vents? Is it impossible to keep the engine bay clean and dry or not that bad? Would love some feedback. Thanks!

[@Smeedia]

Not bad, have the vents placed between the engine and frame rail so water just drains to the ground 🥳

[@giovannipacheco8730]

I disagree with the high flow air filter. They’re reusable! Spend the $35 and have it for years. I’ve had mine for 4 years now and I clean it every 12k miles. I’ve saved over $120. Of course, that’s just my opinion. I’m cheap! Haha!

[@Smeedia]

I did not even think about the cleaning aspect and re usability of them! Good info to add into it though! 🔥

[@marcusantonius4849]

Dry flow filters are the best. You don’t have to worry about over oiling the filter after you clean them.

[@BajaDeezNutz]

Marcus Antonius Dry filters are very practical but from my experience with them, K&N’s oiled filters seem to provide more power gain than dry ones. I own an IS250 and my brother has an IS200t and I’ve researched into filter kits for both cars and from these two, K&N seems to put out the most gains on the dyno opposed to AEM’s dry filter. Now for my NA V6, air filter doesn’t make much of a difference but my brother’s turbo does see a substantial peak increase of 32...? horsepower. Which is pretty damn impressive. Just don’t over-oil it and they are the best investment you can make on your car 👍🏼

[@jackmcdonald8355]

As someone who removed an airbag from a car, it's not worth it. I put an aftermarket Corbeau plaid racing seat in my MK7 GTI... then I needed the seat airbag. I ended up with 3 broken vertebrae and a broken tailbone. I'm ok now, but trust me when I say it's not worth it.

[@jackr6927]

Subaru’s in general usually come with shit speakers so that was the first thing I did. I should be getting a head unit pretty soon 🤙

[@Smeedia]

Very vsry true! The OE ones are garbage

[@eaglesix4785]

Outstanding contents as always 🔥🔥🔥. Shout out to Brian, met him yesterday at Mod Garage. Super cool guy, let me grab the motul oil and griot and payed him through his website. Overall he's shop has a lot of goodies🔥🔥💯

[@Smeedia]

Super good guy and he is very down to earth. Glad that you were able to get your goodies 🔥😁

[@eaglesix4785]

I agree. Shop is super nice as well. Now im just going to need some aguh-duhguh 🤣😂to install multiple parts.

[@tlamedia_]

My seats are already uncomfortable for 2+ hour road trips

[@MrNorotic]

This video only really talked about the stuff you shouldn't get although if you had the option of getting just ONE thing on your daily driver it should definately be an upgraded sound system. It's hard to explain how much more enjoyable a commute is when you have a good sound system but it definitely makes the whole experience always a joy. Sometimes after I get off work I'll stop at a drive through, drive home, park and just chill for 30 minutes as I listen to music. An upgraded sound system with good tweeters in the front and a decent subwoofer in the back will honestly change the way you experience music.

[@Smeedia]

I agree, I did one on suggested mods but really only talked about improving the driving experince. But a better quality sound system is always a must have

[@2988jake]

Right up there with removing the air bag is people that run harnesses and a harness bar (with out a cage) on the street. It makes a side impact that you would normally walk away from potentially deadly ☠️

[@Smeedia]

Yesssss, or bolting the harness to the back of the seat, neither of which are good options to do

[@dragonsrage420]

So I drove from Washington state to SoCal in 26ish hours in bride lowmax seats and had no problem I like how the fixed back seats hold you in

[@Smeedia]

I did Louisiana to Washington in Sparco Sprints and they were awful after 10 hours, then again genuine brides are a solid seat to go with

[@CrimsonShells]

What's your thought on cheap vortex generators? I completely understand why you should stay away from cheap spoilers, lips, etc.. but a vortex gen for the roof seems pretty straightforward as long as it's mounted correctly. What would you consider a good price for what you get? I see cheap eBay ones for 30$ and all CF ones for like 2k.

[@Smeedia]

I'd suggest thr OEM generator, like $80 or so. But I'd say you can cheap out on those a little. Theyre not super critical to be high high quality 🔥

[@CrimsonShells]

@@Smeedia Awesome. I forgot that the OEM one is even a option lol. Thanks man appreciate you and all your videos.

[@Dominik189]

On the seats and harnesses thing. Harnesses are actually dangerous unless you wanna wear a HANS device and helmet while daily driving.

[@jeffreyfinney6930]

Tried using the OEM filter I got worse mpg.i installed a KN got two more mpg. The airbox design has alot to do with how this works some cars have two stage intakes on the airbox that feed into a two chamber intake manifold using a drop in is all you need in this case. If you are going to replace it you need to reflash the ECM for an aftermarket intake set up.

[@Smeedia]

Thank you for adding this! Good information to have in here as well 🔥

[@andrewtejada3164]

Can you do a video on the best way to upgrade the sound system? I see so many different opinions, some saying the head unit must be replaced, some say otherwise.

[@Smeedia]

I don't really dig into audio stuff too much but I'll see what I can come up with

[@andrewtejada3164]

Smeedia Awesome! Look forward to it. Most helpful Subaru channel on YT💪🏾🔥

[@kajithatotherguy4408]

Agreed on all except sorta turbo timers, and not because I would put one on my rig. If you're driving hard enough on the street for a turbo timer you need to not. But! Coolant does not, in fact, flow after you switch a car off unless it has an electric coolant pump. Most water pumps are wither timing or "fan" belt driven. Engine stops, flow stops.

[@Smeedia]

With smaller turbo applications you get enough residual flow to cool the turbo down. With my fkr for example the upper coolant expansion tank will co tinge to feed the turbo will coolant until the system cools and depressurizes. Not sure if other OE Turbo systems follow a similar principal or not

[@joeynapolitano8601]

Hey, where did you get your hood vents. It’s exactly what I’ve been looking for

[@Smeedia]

They're APR narrow hood vents 🙏😁

[@MartiniOCP]

As usual, great stuff here. Do you think upgrading the intercooler on a 15+ WRX used a sa daily with stage 1+ is a must? Am askin cause where I live there's no access to parts like mishimoto, cobb, maperformance - or, at least, after shipping and customs these coolers go for about 1400$ which I think is crazy. There are, however, some cheaper replicas, 6061 aluminium, about 40% bigger than stock. Have been told by some they may not do as good as a job as a stock intercooler due to the poor quality aluminium. What's your take on this? Thnx!

[@Smeedia]

Depending in how much power your looking to make they are needed, anything above around 320WHP is when your going to start to need one 🙏

[@MartiniOCP]

@@Smeedia Im not looking to make power. Got my stage 1+ front maperformance and am pretty happy with it. Just wanted to make the car comfortable, especially during summer time. Maybe, in the future, Id help myslef to a j pipe (catted) but that's all...

[@henrykharoud4480]

Just a question. So I’m stuck in east coast of the country due to some CBSA stuff(I live in Canada) and my STI is parked in my garage, yes I took the wheels off and threw some garbage wheels just to serve the purpose of being parked. But, I’m somewhat sure that my car will be untouched for like 9 months to a year. I wanna know that when I finally get back, should I replace all the fluids in the car before I start driving it like engine oil, trans and diff fluid, brake fluid, coolant or there are some fluids that will be fine and I don’t need to change all of them?

[@Smeedia]

I would seap all thr fluids anyway just to make sure that the first start will be a clean one. When fluids sit for a while, you can get some interesting emulsion happen and settling

[@az_3kgt714]

Guess im weird..Absolutely loved doing road trips in an mr2 with a fixed back seat and 4-point takata harnesses lol. Going to do it again in a 3000gt. Now the girl friend on the other hand..absolutely hated it lol. Car sat too low to begin with ( was on megan coilovers) then fixed back seats and harness..But she rarely rode in the car to begin with xD.

[@mattm920]

Regarding the Turbo on a stock STi. I’ve heard from different people that after I run the car I should be waiting 5 mins in idle in a parking space; to let the turbo cool off instead of getting to my destination and turning off the car right away. Thoughts?

[@Smeedia]

If your driving the car normal you have no issues, if your at the track gling 100% on the car then let it idle and cool but in 9/10 cases you can just shut the car off

[@needmoney4GT3RS]

A humbling experience, glad KZbin gave me a reality check LMFAO

[@raptoranderson]

Since no-one has mentioned it yet ... The concept behind a turbo-timer is that when you switch the car off a couple things COULD happen to your turbo: 1. It is not allowed sufficient time to transfer heat to the fluids that cool it since those fluids are no longer moving with the engine switched off. As a result the turbo retains all of its heat and could overheat which could damage some of its internals. 2. The small amount of oil that still resides in the turbo or in the lines near to it could be baked and clog up the lines or the turbo as that oil is no longer being moved by the engine but is still subjected to the heat of the turbo as it cools down. This means that when you then switch your car on again, there is either an oil blockage caused by that oil or you have a baked chunk of oil now flying around your engine or your turbo that could damage something. While those things may happen, they're incredibly unlikely in street applications. Turbo-timers are mostly a gimmick. However I still allow my car a minute or two to cool down before I turn it off if I have been doing any particularly hard driving just for peace of mind.

[@Smeedia]

Totally understandable, I do think that they are over hyped for what they are and it leads people to believe that they provide this false sense of security when its not a modification that is needed for a stock turbo or water cooled turbo.

[@SincerityJoy]

I don't have an airbag in my car but I still stick to my Nardi steering wheels that came with the car from the factory 😅

[@Dildozerification]

Aw, I like my shrouds But I also realized that I could have gotten a whole new exhaust for the money I spent on them :'(

[@Smeedia]

No regrets if youve got em enjoy them! But they add up quick 😅

[@dyingbreed5386]

It may be different for the FA series engines but if you have an EJ stay clear of any intake mods other than a drop in filter. On an EJ an intake will actually hurt performance if you don't also get a tune and even then don't expect much, if anything, unless you are also putting on a bigger turbo.

[@Smeedia]

That can be said for any EJ or FA car, a tune is always going to be needed whenever you change airflow or fuel. I'd still suggest an intake to someone though as long as they have an AP. The stock intake will create a bottle neck

[@joeylehtomaki9699]

Lol good video, made the mistake of some of these on my old bug eye wrx and regretted it.

[@Smeedia]

It happens to us all, hoping I can help save others from some of thr mistakes later down the road 😅

[@joeylehtomaki9699]

Smeedia yeah I have a 2018 wrx now and am just doing performance mods unless I can find recaros from an sti or sport package wrx

[@shahrozahmad475]

I really wish I was taught about cars instead of being self taught... it’s expensive to self teach a lot of “learning the hard way” but I love cars

[@Smeedia]

Ive learned the hard way too many times 😅

[@RazzleFrazzle]

I'm in the same boat. Its expensive and very time intensive.

[@meischix]

Pretty much agree on everything except on air filters. Having a washable air filter saved me a lot of money in the long run by having to just wash it every 5-10kms or so. I got a stainless steel mesh air filter so I wouldn't need to oil it. Just water and light soap would do. This is much better than always buying a new one twice or thrice a year.

[@Smeedia]

In other comments I retracted what I said on air filters 🙏 I totally forgot that they are washable and can be re used.

[@meischix]

@@Smeedia I do agree that they bloat the power numbers though 😅 I never really thought a replacement filter would do that much 😁

[@orochikid]

I have a full bucket and it is very comfortable. Obviously if you haven’t broken yours in or sit in someone else’s you’ll think they’re uncomfortable. I’ve done 3 hour commutes and taken naps in mine. High flow filters have been dyno’d and shown to increase hp for around 3-5hp which is not bad for 50$.

[@Smeedia]

The seats ive used in the past have always been annoying for daily driving and don't always feel the best. The padding has always been relatively shallow. For the filters I saw a few other postings with links, still think that some manufacturers over inflate their #s though

[@xClyptox]

Hold up, you have a SRT4? I went from a CSRT4 to a Scat pack and am looking to get back to the WRX for the manual option. Is it comparable? I loved my Caliber so much, it was so much fun and am looking to get that back with a car that has more of a part availability.

[@Smeedia]

Ours hasent ran in years but we do have one 🔥 gnarly cars 💪

[@killrockstartv]

engineering explained did a video on drop in filters and was able to get 4hp increase from performance filters. Obviously this is variable to the car iirc the car used in testing was a forester.

[@killrockstartv]

reeee someone else has already made this comment i appologise!

[@Smeedia]

No worries! I checked it out and some pretty interesting results, I also think it had to depend on the car that the filter is being swapped out in that had thr largest impact as well

[@caseyjones6741]

if you remove the steering wheel for a quick release you should get a harness and all to kinda of replace the safety you took away

[@junglemassive10]

Good video content, even if totally opinion based. I would love to have seen examples of the things you were talking about like the racing seats, quick release hub, useless vents, etc. It would drive home your point and add production value to your videos. Spending some time editing would make it look less like you're just filming these on a tripod in your garage.

[@Smeedia]

Appreciate the feedback, but using what I have to get clips the the only ones I did not have examples of were the quick release hub and fake aero/shrouds. And that's the point of the small B roll shots trying to break up the tripod usage. But filming everyone as a 1 person crew i don't have much of a choice outside of a tripod

[@junglemassive10]

@@Smeedia Fair enough. Work with watcha got. I'm still subbed and following so you're doing something right.

[@Smeedia]

@@junglemassive10 appreciate the feedback and always try to work on what i can from everyone. Any other production style things that you come up with frel free to shoot them over! Appreciate the support as well! 🔥

[@roincec]

I think quick release steering wheel is awesome as an anti-theft device. I would just park my car and bring my steering wheel to office or home with me.

[@Smeedia]

It works great as an anti theft device, but most I see are broken windows and things stolen from them, personally i would rather have an airbag there but to each their own. Its a good mod, i just dont think its the best for the street

[@isaias9838]

I think most people prefer safety over aesthetics. Don’t get me wrong it looks cool having a quick release, but for most people it wouldn’t be worth the health risk.

[@codythrasher3930]

Until I can afford a pro tune and better fuel mods. What would you say to add first I have both. Downpipe or sf intake both Cobb. And since stock fueling can handle both I’m stuck on which to pick

[@Smeedia]

Get the downpipe, you'll see better gains from it and the car will be a touch louder 🔥

[@codythrasher3930]

Smeedia thank you so much for replying and giving some info

[@dielawn8470]

Was scared to watch this and was hoping my mods weren’t on this list and they weren’t 😂

[@Smeedia]

Made it through 😅🔥

[@CabbageSniffer]

I can't agree more on the quick release wheel. I cringe every time I see a 02-05 WRX with the factory Momo wheel swapped out for some crappy NRG without air bag or cruise control

[@Smeedia]

Yesssses, the MoMo wheels are being hard to find and are already great wheels!!!!

[@Redcadence]

yeah, i agree. if you can easily get into and out of your car you dont need it imo. i was asking my friend why he got a qd steering wheel for his miata that he doesnt track and he told me it was a theft deterrent along with some hidden kill switches. someone tried to steal his car twice.

[@djteako]

Awe. but I love all my Perrin "pretty parts" !!!!! yeah, I agree, I could have better spent the money elsewhere, but anything else I would have got would have voided my warranty, so this was one way I could customise my ride, and make it look so much better without actually modifying it. besides, I get tons of compliments on my engine bay :)

[@Smeedia]

Warranty makes things a little more difficult to work with so its understandable 🔥😁

[@carrazer001]

What’s up bro!!! What radiator do you recommend 2020 WRX, Koyorad or CSF please advise

[@Smeedia]

Koyo would be my pick, CSF is also very good though

[@jameskocks4734]

Personally I think cold air kits are a noise maker and nothing else. They cost $300+ and then the cost of a tune or retune. The factory air box is rated for up to 400 hp.

[@Jonatha8a12]

I totally dig that new garage!

[@Smeedia]

Thank you! Very usable compared to the last 🔥

[@ovm_catalyst]

Whew, I was starting to think im the only person without push to start in my BRZ lol

[@Smeedia]

I'm not fancy enough for push to start 😅

[@SupraNSkyline]

Opinion on Seibon Carbon stock STi style spoiler vs a standard white or black potentially.

[@Smeedia]

Never been a huge fan of seibon products but the carbon wing does look good

[@ZKirk33]

would you recommend coilovers over an air suspension lift kit tanner? I live in northern idaho, and i heard cold really cold weather can put water inside the lines when they freeze then dethaw …also, is that true?

[@Smeedia]

It is true, but with water traps it can be mitigated, bags are nice but coilovers are much more responsive

[@ZKirk33]

@@Smeedia what about front mounted intercoolers...since in the winter snow gets deep, and say that snow goes above the lip and clogs the lower grill which the intercooler sits behind, will that impair its performance? Is it then best to get a top mounted? Please bear with me, LOL, should you only really consider getting a new intercooler if you plan to go bigger on you hp?

[@Smeedia]

For the most part yes, not a huge need to swap unless your wanting more power. But always exceptions. And with deep snow in theory a TMIC would be more effective assuming that thr snow would temporarily clog the fins

[@ZKirk33]

Since you have a carbon fiber wing, I want to ask you from your personal experience...does it fade when in sunlight excessively? My buddies told me carbon fiber fades in sunlight, do you protect yours, or just don’t let your car chill in the sun unnecessarily?

[@Smeedia]

As long as you take care of it, it will last a long time. I ceramic coated mine for extra UV protection 🙏🙏

[@shofarsogood7504]

I know it's been commented but just some more data to prove it. High flow drop in filter can work. 2015 focus st same day same road same temp. 4th gear 4K rpm 5k -.4 seconds over oem filter -.9 seconds over oem with tune. * numbers are from memory. May not be correct. Point is there was REAL time improvements. Stopwatch was used also, not just time estimation.

[@Smeedia]

I watched the video, interesting results. I still think thr claims from vendors are a little inflated though 😅

[@hilden7310]

May I ask what’s the shift knob in the BRZ?

[@Smeedia]

It is the white cobb knob 😁

[@mickrichBMXWRXJapan]

Quick turbo timer-related question:- is the turbo on a 2005 JDM WRX (not an STi) water-cooled?

[@Smeedia]

Yes 🤙

[@mickrichBMXWRXJapan]

@@Smeedia Thanks man! Appreciate it.

[@Motorsportsgeek]

The point of the "performance filter" is that its cleanable and lasts a lifetime. Yes its expensive at first but it will pay for itself in the long term since it wont need replacing.

[@Smeedia]

I retracted what i said abkut the drop in filters in a few comments. I overlooked the fact they can be cleaned 😖

[@Vohaul214]

You should have mentioned lowering springs. I understand people want to kill the wheel gap but save up and get a good coil-over kit. Springs alone usually decrease cornering performance IMHO.

[@Smeedia]

I'd say yes and no, if someone is on a real budget and can't get anything aside from lowering springs id consider them a good soend as long as they're now stupid low springs.

[@D1Ziple]

Enjoyed the video but engineer explained did a video on performance air filter and it had a 2% power increase so in my opinion the bang for the buck is there

[@Smeedia]

I saw the video after someone commented, interesting results! I still think that vendors inflate the numbers a little bit 😅

[@D1Ziple]

Smeedia agree 20 Hp with a catback yeah that’s not true...bolt ons just don’t provide a lot of increase gains

[@brettlarbus3970]

I just bought a 2020 sti that I plan too daily. I'd like a little bump in power and sounds (turbo, exhaust) do you think a axle back, intake and pro tune would be worth it?

[@Smeedia]

Would give a small bump in power, what do you have in mind for figures?

[@brettlarbus3970]

@@Smeedia I want to get more out of it but I want it to be my daily and I want to keep it reliable. Would you suggest anything else other than an intake, axle back, aos and protune? Maybe a downpipe? Just debating what to do.

[@Smeedia]

The 15+ STI fuel system cannot support and intake/downpipe combo so i could suggest one or the other or build the fuel system a little bit

[@kaisvlog7208]

Im from Malaysia, im new to Scooby community with my recent used 2015 WRX as my DD ride..I like the honesty and helpful information. I would like to know what good support mods... #Spread Love Not Hate

[@Smeedia]

Ive got a fee videos covering supporting mkds on the channel in the discussion Playlist should help you get started but if you have any questions feel free to reach out! And welcome to the community! 😁🔥

[@kaisvlog7208]

@@Smeedia Amazing. Great thanks