Choose Parts Carefully When Upgrading Your WRX

The stock 2012 Subaru WRX was a great car, but when Subaru throws you lemons, you put them into a juicer and squeeze out a madhouse of a built engine. Too much money was spent, but these things cost money so it is what it is.
Parts:
Grimspeed Up/Cross Pipe
Invidia Down Pipe
Invidia R400 exhaust
Killer B Ultimate Oil Pickup
Grimspeed Top Mounted Intercooler
TurboSmart Blowoff Valve
Cobb Accessport
Perrin Cold Air Intake
Kartboy Short Throw Shifter
Torque Solutions Engine Mounts
IAG Top Feed TGV Deletes
IAG Air Oil Seperator
Motul X-Clean 8100 5W-30
Thanks for watching!
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“Altek” intro animation and video thumbnail by Gary Doodles.
“Altek” intro music by Tommy Sica
Equipment Used:
Video - Nikon D5600
Audio - Zoom H4N Pro
Video Editing Software - Adobe Premiere CC
Who am I?
I’ve been an IT guy for the last 15 years with a serious passion for tech and all things automotive. From motherboards to combustion engines, I find happiness in anything that powers on or throws you back in your seat with the fierceness of a Greek god.

[@user-fe8vx6ok8q]

The white morgan freeman of car youtubers.

[@Altek1]

Best. Comment. Ever. Thank you sir. I will now begin working on my Morgan Freeman impression.

[@josephfalco8111]

most underrated KZbinr.

[@Altek1]

You're the man Joe! Thanks and thanks for watching!

[@chidisdosage1259]

About time! Lol this made my night

[@Altek1]

Haha, thanks for watching buddy. It ain't easy putting these together so I'm glad you liked it!

[@sierratechnicaladvisorygroup]

Beautiful & informative vid, thank you.

[@Altek1]

Thanks so much, glad you enjoyed it!

[@sansfreedom1629]

Excellent job as always Altek

[@Altek1]

Thanks bud!

[@ninjamaster3453]

Hope you're having a great summer. It's an outrageous upgrade. But I love it. Keep going man.

[@Altek1]

Thanks bud, hope you're enjoying yours as well. Luckily the heat died down a bit in the last few weeks. Glad you like the upgrade, I'm learning to love it as well. I'm afraid the last few changes might make it even harder to drive but as they say, race car. Thanks for watching as always bro!

[@sblexls]

Another solid video! It’s good seeing you back up on the channel brother! Thanks for the shoutout at the beginning I loved it and I wasn’t expecting it lol! Can’t wait for the next video as usual! Cheers my man, have a great weekend and as always be safe! -Steve

[@Altek1]

Glad you liked it Steve! I had to put your name in there, you've been supportive since day one. I got a Cali video in the works as well, I think you'll recognize some places I've been. Have a great one yourself!

[@stormwarrior9588]

Found you on Scotty’s channel, love the video! Gets me excited to finish my WRX swap into my first gen Impreza :D

[@Altek1]

Thanks bro! And thanks for the subscribe and checking my other Subaru video out. The first gen design is one of my favorites, I like the clean and simple old school design. My car is a blast to drive, I'm doing a slight brake upgrade now and a bigger turbo and some stiffer suspension is going in during the spring, I'll put an update video together once I'm done.

[@GodsSoldier1979]

This video is a lot of help due to me wanting a suburu so bad, thx a million!

[@Altek1]

No problem bud! Happy to help. I'm getting the turbo upgraded now, I'll do a follow up video once I get it back.

[@ahmedp800]

I love my STI. I love the feel and how raw it is. Best car I ever owned.

[@Altek1]

Good way to put it. There's definitely more of a connection to the road than a lot of other cars out there. I'm excited to upgrade my suspension since the original shocks are pretty tired after 60k.

[@63256325N]

Great review which got better after adjusting my audio. I'm a bass freak and the engine sounds were overwhelming, I could just barely hear what you were saying but I fixed that and all was well. Looks like a fun car, of which I'd definitely get in trouble with..... 😁 Thanks for the video. 👍

[@Altek1]

Haha I know exactly what you're talking about. I have a giant subwoofer when I edit, and it was overwhelming but then again, I usually crank the bass up too high anyways. I tried to put a highpass on the audio but then it sounded too tinny. Glad someone got to experience it like it is when I drive it! So far I've not gotten myself in trouble, but in due time I sure will. Glad you enjoyed bro, and thanks for watching.

[@ImportRace]

Another great video. I used to own 2 Subaru WRX, an 2002 & 2006 WRX limited. Awesome rides they are

[@Altek1]

Glad you liked this one too. I liked the old styles, especially when you catch an old school STI in great shape, they still look incredible today.

[@mlinder2000]

Wow. Was just going through a bunch of rebuilding sti vids and I here my name being recognized. Sweet man. Thanks. I've wanted an STi hatch for years and it's the rebuild cost that's kept me sticking to Toyota/Lexus and Acura. Anyway I'm back to to dreaming of just saying life is short just get it but I wanna go about it as smart as I can....I could definitely see myself going through exactly the same scenario and having the post upgrade remorse. Anyway hope things are going well for you and the Rex👍

[@pole6840]

@Altek - what to say ... you have great car and you making very professional videos. I've enjoyed your previous videos as much as this one. You have good attitude and sense of humor.

[@Altek1]

Thanks much bud! My standard of what looks good might be too high since it takes a while to pump out videos but a response like yours makes it worth it. I'm also happy you get my sense of humor, it does go over people's heads sometimes. Thanks for watching bud!

[@mrjakedasnake813]

Great video man

[@Altek1]

Thanks bro!

[@NervDC5]

Subie Family! Definitely glad I came across your videos by way of the Integra video. Good content. Keep it up and I just subscribed!

[@Altek1]

Thanks so much bud! I appreciate the sub, I'll try to keep the content coming. I'll definitely have a video on my friends Subaru down the road which is just batsh!t crazy, stay tuned bud!

[@nobatadared]

Was looking up videos on hatchback wrx's, since I'm hoping to get one myself. Happened to find you from Scotty's showcase. Your presentation and production skills are so good its criminal that this video has so few views. Subbed. Hope you make more videos on the wrx! :p

[@Altek1]

Hah, thanks! It's tricky getting view but I'm chalking it up to patience and uploads. The winter is slowing my posts down but I did want to put together a video on how the Subaru handles with snow tires since I've never felt so much grip in a slippy situation in my entire life. The best tip I could give you is to go with an STI if you have the chance. The slightly upgraded suspension and the ability to split the power to the wheels differently with the diff settings, among other things, makes it a worthwhile upgrade choice. I wish I did my homework before I purchased it instead of just being cheap about it. Thanks for watching and for the sub bud!

[@TysonHugie]

That looks faster than a 1990 Legend! :) Nice work man! Keep the vids coming.

[@Altek1]

Haha yeah, the Integra wasn't that slow to me at first, but after driving the dubya for a while, I realize how tricky it was to merge into a highway with it. Glad you enjoyed. More to come buddy! Thanks for watching!

[@jurrien75]

Hey, Fellow WRX driver here from the Netherlands .Like your videos and subbed. Mine is a 2008 WRX (non STI) in white. only mods are a Prodrive catback and 2006WRX wheel with 215/50r17 instead of 205/50r17s a little more diameter improved comfort without loss of handling. Daily driver with now 120000km.

[@Altek1]

Thanks for the sub buddy, always happy to hear from fellow Subaru owners. I'm actually shocked about how thin the stock tires are on yours, I guess the added flares on the quarter panels for the 2011 model year really allowed for wider tires. Even so, the added 10mm all around must have added to the handling a noticeable amount. Any issues with yours since you've had it?

[@jurrien75]

Altek apart from regular maintenance, clutch replacement at 50k(broken leaf spring), a little rust spot at the trunk just above the logo due to the handle slightly bending upward when opening the trunk. Replaced the ambient temp sensor. Experiencing a bit spongy brake pedal and intermittent “brake and shake” now. Did you have any brake issues?

[@carlosnegroncruz]

I just spun a bearing on a 13 STI Hatch 1 week ago today! Its got an Nvidia r100 turboback, Cobb intake, and a botched kartboy short shifter (that I fixed with the cobb), and whatever tune one of the previous two owners had on it. But now I got to dump (more) money into it and now I'm committed like a Catholic marriage! Im tired of the exhaust sound as well. I get compliments on it but they don't have to hear it ALL THE TIME. Engine only has 65k on it also. It is what it is and like you I'm torn between dumb awesome rally rocket, or reliable fun zippy street car. Thankfully there is a specialty Subaru performance shop in my area who will do the job right. Too bad I have to pay out of pocket though for Everything. But I'm optimistic and can't wait until it's done because when it's done she will be well worth it just like yours.

[@Altek1]

I wasn't sure if the same problem existed on the STI since they used slightly different internals I thought. Maybe not since you're damn near at the same mileage and years that I was. Although, it could have been one of the last two owners thrashing on it for all you know. I love how you say you're "committed like a Catholic marriage", hahaha, because that's how I felt. This was the first new car I ever purchased and I'd be damned if I let it go. Seems like you did enough at first to make it more fun but now you're about to crank it up to 11. Just be careful, my video didn't really show how much of a pain in the ass first gear is, let's just say hill starts were scary again, and they haven't been for over a decade. Best of luck bro!

[@mikesierra7611]

I think we're twins, I'm early 30's, feel I'm driving a pre teen car, my cars obnoxiously loud I hate hearing it drone away but I don't change it for when the very occasional inner child in me wants to play . I keep telling myself that I'm happy with where my cars at then a few days later I dump more money into it 😂

[@Altek1]

We're cut from the same cloth my friend! I've dumped waaaay too much money into it so far. I actually just swapped out the exhaust for a Cobb with a muffler and I'm much happier with it. Put in a front mount as well and it's friggen fast now. 424hp/430tq to the wheels and I'm just waiting for the time bomb to explode now. Stay tuned for a follow up video with those changes. Always happy to hear from a fellow adult who likes to act like a child every now and then 😁

[@elaineharvey8183]

Good job alex

[@Altek1]

Thank you Elaine!

[@Malice617]

New subscriber now like destiny child SAY MY NAME SAY MY NAME WHEN NOBODY'S AROUND YOU! But awesome channel, just got a subaru and will probably endeavor down the road you did. I can't say unfortunately yet, but I'm sure I'll find out 😂

[@natanaelonate5193]

You are the reason i got a wrx hatchback :,)

[@Altek1]

Awesome! I hope you're happy with it. I'm in the process of getting a front mount intercooler and a more quiet exhaust, expect an update video on mine soon. Thanks for watching!

[@natanaelonate5193]

Update my engine blew and geico hooked me up with 6000 for a rebuild lol

[@Altek1]

Haha are you serious?! Total win for a bad situation if you ask me.

[@Sabbaloui20]

No matter what this is still a fresh car Altek! I think it needs a louder exhaust. Lol. Can’t wait to see what else you do to it!

[@Altek1]

Bro Joe! Haha, any louder and I'd arrest myself. More upgrades to come, so update videos will follow. Thanks for watching bud!

[@Sabbaloui20]

@@Altek1 Anytime Braj!

[@dieugenio4]

New subscriber here! I love your videos so far!. I'm really torn at the moment because I just picked up a used 2012 civic Si coupe with only 24,000 miles for $17K. After owning it for 2 months now Im not as satisfied as I thought I'd be. The Si is lacking the power that I wanted and before I go and start modding I thought I'd look for a Subie that I would definitely be willing to throw some cash into. I've always wanted a WRX Hatch but I dont know if it would be the smartest thing If I trade my civic in for a used Hatch with 60k+ miles. I know Honda is always reliable and that's the main reason I got the Si.

[@Altek1]

Thanks for subscribing and it's awesome to hear you like my content, much appreciated! The SI is a nice ride, good handling and, as you said, very reliable but yeah, not very peppy. I could compare the acceleration to that of my Integra, it feels like it uses every bit of power through the entire rev band, it's just not a lot of power. Short of throwing in a turbo, I don't see you making a lot of power with bolt-ons and a tune enough to call it as fun as even a stock WRX but it would definitely be more spirited than what you have. It's hard for me to recommend my model year Subaru but I can tell you that my friend has a 2002 STI and he beats the ever living hell out of that thing and it's modded. It sure looked sad the last time I saw it, but it was still running. On the other hand, with mostly just basic maintenance, you'll be able to drive that Civic for another 200k no problem, it just won't be very fun. You can always look for a fun second car!

[@HotlineKM1]

Been saving money up for a bit now and plan on getting my first car this summer. Originally planned on getting a second gen WRX but the third gens have grown on me so much I just gotta have that hatchback version. The wait is killing me.

[@Altek1]

I'm a big fan of hatches but just buyer beware on the 2011-14 models. After a spun bearing on an engine I maintained as instructed, I just can't trust it or recommend it. The older models aren't as good looking as a hatch but still not bad if you jazz up the outside a bit. Happy hunting buddy, but be smart, you don't want a money pit like I got.

[@SovietRussianTroller]

I love that smile😂😂✌

[@Altek1]

Ha well thank you!

[@Topher7527]

My dad has Invidia exhaust on his s2000. It's not too loud but it does drone. Putting a large comforter in the trunk helped a lot. You might want to try throwing some soundproofing material into the floor of your hatch and maybe under the carpet following along the exhaust. My brother has Tomei exhaust on his s2000 with the cores removed. Now that is obnoxious. I don't ever drive his car because I feel so bad whenever I'm in it.

[@Altek1]

I'm willing to try that since I did intend on adding some padding to the hatch portion. I just wouldn't think it would do all that much but then again, a lot of noise travels through the car since it's a hatch. Good to know I should about Tomei exhausts though! Thanks for the suggestion buddy.

[@mrmerlin6287]

Hey man, lovely "back-firing pig". This is the car all teenagers wish they could have afforded. The audio sounded lovely in my headphones.

[@Altek1]

Haha, thanks, I'm trying to be as honest as I can here. I was hoping most people wouldn't listen on a cell phone since you simply can't hear it as well, glad you had the full noisy experience!

[@Kichizo_DJ]

I get scared of opening up mine since my exhaust set up is very loud. But your totally correct about the turbo sounds haha it makes you want to open it up

[@Altek1]

The worst is when I let off in second gear going downhill around my town, the backfire just sounds like I'm firing a handgun out my window which is not something you want to simulate in the town I live in. But bro, the wastegate sound is insane, it reeeeeallly makes you want to floor it. Thanks for the sub buddy!

[@Kichizo_DJ]

Altek yeah haha I waited till New Years to try and 2 step on the burble tune 🔥

[@SnDHitman]

Love the video! Btw my integra is on the road and has been treating me well. Has a coolant leak though that's gotten bad enough to park the car for now

[@Altek1]

Thanks cj! Remind me how many miles on that Integra of yours? I hope that coolant leak is an easy fix.

[@SnDHitman]

@@Altek1 it's at around 275 000 kms. It's just a coolant hose somewhere I haven't had time to look to closely yet

[@Altek1]

You literally have the same miles as mine now. Oh how I love simple problems like that. I don't know about yours, but mine pumps some of the coldest AC I've ever felt.

[@SnDHitman]

@@Altek1 unfortunately the previous owner uninstalled the ac! Fortunately the hottest days we get here are about 30 degrees celcius. And my daily driver is a 98 civic si with pretty good ac lol

[@clonmany]

You’re car sounds awesome

[@Altek1]

It's that blow-off valve I tell ya, that's what does it for me. Thanks for watching!

[@rogueroger0]

Must say I love my 09 wrx, wish it was a wide body but, not a make or break for me

[@Altek1]

That's what sold me on my model year. All the STI look without the STI price tag. But I could have bought the STI with upgrades where I'm now. How many miles on yours?

[@iitzpepsii]

I’m looking to get my self either a 09 legacy B spec or a 11-14 wrx what are some main things to look at before buying one besides the turbo and timing chain / belt and oil leaks and how much did it cost u to get ur wrx tuned to 350 when u mentioned Newburgh NY I’m like damn he’s hell close I’m from Utica about 2.5 hours away

[@hankr.1943]

Nicely done. Getting ready to have a lot of the same stuff done on a 2013, ortherwise identical car. My build list avoids the parts you're not liking so much. TBH, the suspension travel/body roll shown in your video is a little scary looking, for all of that power you've got in the car now. After some sways, springs and some bilstein shocks, you'll love the car even more (and be safer). I have been building my car up for a few years now and started with the suspension/brakes 1st. So much fun at the track! Go to some NASA HPDE or Hyperdrives with your car (after the susp/brake work). The track time with an instructor will show you where the cars (and your) limits are. Also, if you swap that Q400 for a Q300 Invidia catback, I think you'll be a lot happier (and your girlfriends neighbors as well). You may also want to consider a transmission brace, if you didn't have that done during your build. My 2 cents! Great video, and very well timed that it showed up in my KZbin feed today, because my car goes under the knife on Friday.

[@Altek1]

Hank, you got a good eye. My suspension is definitely tired with over 60k on it now. I was trying to fit in where I mention the body roll but the length was getting up there. I was going to focus on brakes and suspension first but then the engine went so I did what I had to. I did Whiteline sway bars a few years back, but I should have gone thicker. I was going to do some autocross runs once I had more trust in my ability to handle it, good to know an instructor can tag along, that would be helpful to know the limits of the car since they've since changed. Do you have a good recommendation for springs? I'll look into the bilstein shocks, I'm just afraid to make it (more) difficult to drive as a daily. I actually have the R400 Invidia but I'm interested in this Q300 you speak of. I would just need to find someone to buy the current one from me so I can justify it. Not sure about the transmission brace but I'll check with my mechanic. Trust me, your 2 cents are genuinely appreciated. I was being honest when I said I was a rookie when it comes to upgrades! Glad you liked the video and thanks for watching. I hope yours comes out how you want it. Seems like you have a much better idea of what you want going into it so you'll definitely come out on top compared to me.

[@hankr.1943]

@@Altek1 Cool, I totally understand why you went with the motor first. We gotta do what we gotta do. I have RCE Street Guy springs. There's almost an inch of drop with them, but not too much. It does stiffen up the ride a bit, but IMHO, not too much for a daily. That will depend on where you drive daily, tho. If your roads are in bad shape, that will definitely be amplified. But, the upside is being able to throw the car into corners with an ear to ear grin on your face. RCE (Race Comp Engineering) also makes a track version of the springs called yellows. You don't want those! Last thing on the Street Guy Springs ... there's no weird bounce that happens to some lowered cars. Very well balanced. I have 24/22mm sways and an anti-lift kit. Also front/back strut braces. She's a FLAT cornerer. Thank you, I am hoping everything goes well with mine. I have a rebuilt (by Subaru) short block with 24k on it that will hopefully hold together for a couple years (not a daily) before I go IAG stage II tuff.

[@hankr.1943]

@@Altek1 I put this together last year. One of the reasons I went with the Q300 is that it has the least drone in the cabin of all aftermarket exhaust (based on my research) specifically for our hatches. There's a slight drone at 3k but that's it. Sounds awesome at WOT and has a nice burble without setting off alarms when driving normal. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r5jJhZpna6ind7s

[@ronin7183]

Great build! Looks like fun too, I’m back into my 4th WRX after suffering the spun cam/ lifter death from Cherokee SRT8.... really, really shitty and $$$$ thing to happen to a car that’s supposed to be tough.... I liked your point on the spartan interior, lol after all the Jeep luxury options its a little weird back in a WRX, but will never own another HEMI. Mod list available??

[@Altek1]

Thanks bud! Wow, fourth WRX, that's not a good sign, I hope the previous 3 didn't die an early death on you. You're right, I would expect more from an SRT8's engine than that. As for the interior, I honestly never cared how minimal it was until I saw the most recent generation WRX. The additional screens make it seem drastically updated compared to my gen but really, I'm not looking at that stuff much either. I threw the mods in the description but let me know if you have any additional questions bud. Thanks for watching!

[@ronin7183]

Altek cheers man, nope all four have been kickin! I’ve enjoyed some builds and I’ve been lucky. Really surprised to hear about a spun bearing in a Subaru, only issue I’ve ever had has been fuel pumps - twice. Kids love the boost and the BOV “sneeze” 🤙🏽🤙🏽

[@courtney5796]

A voice for radio and a face for KZbin! And WHERE IS THAT PARKING LOT LOCATED!!!

[@Altek1]

Haha thank you!! It's in Westchester, NY. I'm afraid if I reveal its actual location, my autocross track will be compromised 😊

[@willyq3343]

Hey man I was watching Scotty’s video that had you on it , I’m from Newburgh and I have an 08 wrx how would you rate that tuner you went to? I only dealt with them once to buy an intake manifold never for maintenance/tuning

[@Altek1]

Based on a few different tuners I spoke with trying to figure out what I wanted to do to my car, Remy and Brandon were the best to deal with in my opinion. They were willing to answer my incredibly rookie questions without shrugging me off. When I explained a few inconsistencies with the idle and drive, I was able to send Remy a datalog, and in turn he sent me another map to apply to the car via email since I'm over an hour away from his shop. I've only had one other tuner experience, but Remy and DDA Tuned were honest and fair priced. I'd certainly give them a go.

[@THEFUTBALLER15]

Subscribed!! I have a 2014 WRX sedan and how the heck do you manage 30MPG?! Highway driving only at like 60?! Lol cause the max I ever get is around 27-28MPG

[@Altek1]

Hah! Bro, check out my most recent turbo upgrade video on my WRX, I correct myself. The computer isn't reading accurately, I'm assuming it's because of the larger fuel injectors. Cut that number in half, if I'm enjoying the car, I see about 15mpg, but max I can get with steady highway speeds is about 18-20mpg, but that's no fun. Much appreciated for the subscribe, always nice to hear from a fellow subie owner!

[@gabrielworkman]

I'm a college student using my dad's WRX. I want to make some mods while were stuck in this quarantine, what customizations do you recommend that I might be able to do myself? The car already has an access port and stage 2 cobb downpipe.

[@Altek1]

The sound system was a great project if you're into those kind of things. Took me over 20 hours between ripping the car apart and doing the wiring. The short throw shifter is a must have, really makes shifting that much better. Cold air intake would be a breeze, should give you some better sounds when accelerating as well. Air oil separator is a must for these engines but I'm not sure how involved the install is. Also, the top mounted intercooler would be relatively easy as well, not sure if the stock Cobb maps would agree with all that though, you may need a tune done after all that but I'm not certain. Any other questions, let me know. Happy to help a fellow soobie owner.

[@christopherpape4823]

Hey I'm here from Scotty's channel. You mentioned there that the engine problems occur in the '12 - '17 model years, correct? Do you know if, say, a 2010 or 2011 would be more reliable?

[@Altek1]

Hey Chris, I'd hate to steer you in the wrong direction, almost literally, but every article I see only mentions 2012-2017 WRX and STI 2.5L engines. I was under the impression that the STI wasn't affected but it seems so. That suggests the 2010 and 2011 model years aren't affected but I could swear they had the same engine. Here's a link to an article to give you some info, hope it helps: www.torquenews.com/1084/subaru-settles-wrxsti-25l-engine-lawsuit-following-months-discovery

[@christopherpape4823]

@@Altek1 thanks, I'll look into it!

[@StylezOnline]

As a fellow WRX owner, I got some questions... My current mods (2009 WRX Sedan): - Cobb Short Ram Intake - Invidia Q300 Cat-Back Exhaust - Dyno Tuned at 280WHP I’ve really been debating a Downpipe for a couple reasons... 1) Emissions (I’m in Massachusetts) 2) Volume (I feel mine is the perfect volume now) 3) Reliability (Would the downpipe ruin the car?) Wondering your opinions on it because it is my daily and I feel throwing too much at it would feel like a waste since I did pick the car up for $10.5k which is honestly a steal for the condition it’s currently in

[@JiBenJiBee]

Nice to see another guy that's too old to drive a WRX. Guys like us gotta band together.

[@Altek1]

Haha, I didn't want to seem like I was unaware of that fact. Good to know I'm not alone bro. Thanks for watching!

[@ronin7183]

Damn straight! Plus baby seats! 🤙🏽🤙🏽

[@Altek1]

Haha my girl said we'd have to get a bigger car if we had a baby in the future, I said are you kidding me, the rumble from the exhaust will put that baby to sleep in a heartbeat.

[@ronin7183]

@@Altek1 ha ha you know it does too! Lol boxer bedtime stories 😂😂🤙🏾👌🏾

[@matthewwong1326]

Please have a video where you read every single subscribers’ names, I would watch the entire video until my name comes out, lol

[@Altek1]

Hahaha ya know what, it's content! I'm gonna do another news episode soon if I have time, maybe I'll mix the crowd into that one somewhat, maybe responding to user comments and such. Thanks for watching bro!

[@shawnshan9817]

Please keep doing end credits

[@Altek1]

Will do and glad to know you're sticking around to the end bud. Thanks much.

[@datkhary6015]

eyy newly subbed

[@Altek1]

Is your eyy like the Italian sound? If so, I like it. Thanks for the sub!

[@datkhary6015]

@@Altek1 lmao more swedish tbh :)

[@mrbayardi1]

This the one 😭 Im gonna do what I can to trade in my 2016 Civic

[@Altek1]

It's all about that handling and when the boost kicks in, good luck buddy, thanks for watching.

[@pabauza]

Altek, tell us about the parts you wanted for the car. I see nothing wrong with the list on the description. Thx

[@stevee8318]

You mean your subaru dealer didn't give you the free vape pen and bottle of vape juice that comes with every new subaru car?

[@Altek1]

Hah, my friend told me they were doing that in Jersey.

[@therealronaldd]

You didn't mention if you built the transmission or not, WRX 5 speeds tend to be glass if you add power (I own a 03 wrx, fully v7 swapped after that fiasco)

[@Altek1]

Funny you say that, I actually took out the part where I mentioned that, should have left it in. It's the stock 5 speed and I was told not to launch because, as you said, it is glass. I do gradual blasts on the throttle and try not to strain it too much. If it goes, I'll upgrade I guess, just like the engine 😁 how's your 03 running? I assume you shattered your transmission at one point?

[@therealronaldd]

@@Altek1 Haha yep, like the t1000 in terminator 2😂 At that point I did basic bolt ons on the stock ej205, like a turbo, injectors, intercooler, fuel pump etc.. Worst part is I didn't break it doing something cool like launching or banging gears, I was rowing through the gears coming to a stop and it wouldn't go into 1st, 3rd or 4th. a lot of metal shavings were in the gearbox. I found a good deal on a version 7 JDM front clip and swapped everything over. The ej207 and sti 6 speed are miles better than what I had before, I currently make just under 300WHP/240TQ and it's been pretty solid, for an old subaru that is😅

[@Deat6624]

@altek - where you located? - I saw your videos, I know exactly where that reactor is located. ;-) - would love to see the car sometime. @RocklandCounty :-P

[@Altek1]

I'm in lower Westchester, I rarely make it over the bridge but I'm not far from you at all. I used upper Westchester to record since there's less mayhem. Find me on IG, Altek1.

[@Deat6624]

@@Altek1 I work in the county seat of Westchester. Hometown is near Millbrook. ;-)

[@agentk4257]

Never stop being a teen! No matter how old u get.

[@Altek1]

Thanks bud! The teenager in me just bought more parts, stay tuned for that follow up video. Even I'm scaring myself with the power now.

[@agentk4257]

@@Altek1 it won't take long to get used to it...

[@bujin5455]

7:50. I'm definitely not getting 30 MPG with my 06 STi. ...more like 13. I'm even reasonably sedate.

[@MrQcSkateboarding]

you should change your exaust

[@Altek1]

I intend on it, I can't stand the drone. I'll change it after the winter, might as well not get the new one covered in salt right away

[@boostedwilliam8923]

I think, this car needs a new set of wheels (TE37 maybe?)

[@Altek1]

Oh man those are expensive. I looked at a few options but the ones I want always break the bank so for now I'm okay with the 17's. I think I'll have to take the plunge once I upgrade the brakes since the stock rims definitely won't fit anymore.

[@dancingcalcium]

How did the mods increase the gas mileage so much?

[@Altek1]

Oh I was way off on that. Subaru's system of calculating mileage didn't respond well to the changes, any number I see I can effectively cut it in half. I explain that in a follow up Subaru video. But if I'm doing about 95mph in 5th, I can get about 28mpg, otherwise it's about 16mpg overall. Not good, not good at all.

[@dancingcalcium]

@@Altek1 Haha awesome. wrx is my dream car, still, liking my 2013 civic mpg here in $$ CA. Cheers!

[@brian1192]

How much would a build like this cost w labor

[@Altek1]

The work from DDA, which includes the built block, was $8,800, of that, $2,380 was labor. But I brought about 5k worth of bolt ons to him, so in other words, too much to justify. I did a turbo upgrade earlier this year as well, so all in was about 15k. Again, not worth it. I have the itemized receipt, if you're curious, I could send it to you in insta. Look me up, @altek1.

[@brian1192]

@@Altek1 I’ll look you up on Instagram !

[@bhadz100]

What was the cause why you spun a bearing?

[@gianfrancoa]

The front badge that says Subaru

[@bhadz100]

gianfrancoa don’t get Why people still buy it when the brand is prone to HG and spun bearing.

[@gianfrancoa]

@@bhadz100 I'm nor sure either. Seems that the entire EJ series of engines was very problematic. I was this close to get a 2009 Impreza. Glad that I didn't like the cheap interior and went with a Lancer that I still own

[@Altek1]

My understanding is that this issue is just with specific years of the WRX. I don't believe the STI has the problem. They used cheap bearings for the connections rods and now it's biting them in the ass. A lot of people keep saying head gasket but that's specific to non turbo models, and not recent ones as far as I understand.

[@MaxSpeedMediaLive]

Not sure if you knew this but Subaru would have replaced your engine for free. Defective rod and main bearings were the culprits.

[@Altek1]

I hate to admit this but I'm an idiot, I received something in the mail about the class action lawsuit but I was all of a week late to submit it. I called Subaru to see if there was anything they could do an they said no, I would just have an extended warranty on the engine for 10 years, 100k I believe. If you're aware of anything otherwise, I'd like to get additional compensation from Subaru for my setback since a pretty penny still came out of my pocket. I appreciate the info though bud, and thanks for watching.

[@MaxSpeedMediaLive]

​@@Altek1 that was a known defect and you should be compensated for the repair. You need to contact Subaru Corp and inform them that your engine failed and you had to have it rebuilt. I believe you said your car is a 2012 so if you have under 100k miles on it they should cover it. Regardless, they should cover it. You automatically are entitled to the 8yr 100k powertrain warranty by doing nothing with the class action suit. I would demand it honestly. There is no reason you should have to pay out of pocket for defective engine bearings. They are marketed as high performance cars and should be able to be driven as such without the engine coming apart. Mine went out with just under 10k miles on the motor. Even now I only have 30k miles on the car. I also had to solder my main wiring harness as that is also defective and they aren't telling anyone. My car ran like shit until I opened the harness and soldered a main engine ground that was crimped. Since then all hesitation, stutter, check engine lights went away. It was a nightmare troubleshooting until my son found the issue and we repaired it. Gas mileage and power are at their peak now. It's really a different car. We do all the work ourselves really so we are able to resolve these issues. The reality is that the average car owner cannot diagnose and fix these things as we can and as a result ends up paying excessively for repairs and constantly in and out of the shop. Because of this I have really lost my faith in Subaru as a reliable, honest car company. However, it's still the most fun car I've ever owned.

[@sealy81]

Did you buy the car new or used?

[@Altek1]

New, purchased in April of 2012. The engine failure hurt a lot especially since i did everything right.

[@torreyinnewyorkcity334]

Did you say your in your Mid 30’s? Al just saying. Your totally hot but Mid 30’s lol. Love the new car.

[@Altek1]

Hah, I'll take the compliment! Thanks for watching more of my content!

[@andreipiv]

I'm just a 30yo male working in IT and driving a WRX stereotype

[@Altek1]

Hah, didn't know that was a stereotype but you're right, a lot of WRX owners I've met have been in the computer field.

[@nokoolaid]

Less is often more.

[@Altek1]

I won't disagree with you there.

[@car24dude]

This WRX upgrade preforms better than a STi...........

[@Altek1]

I'd like to hope so after the money I spent but I'm still missing the center diff adjustments, suspension and brake upgrades. Not to mention the sweet STI branding all over the car. I actually just dropped it off at the shop for suspension, turbo and brake upgrades this past weekend, expect a follow up video. Thanks for watching bud!

[@almightyretrosoul]

But yet they want to get rid of Manual Transmission!!!! It's literally a God Send!! #SaveTheManuals

[@Altek1]

The death of the manual is upon us my friend! Sad but true. I get it on supercars, a person changing gears is probably the most dangerous thing for it and you'll never hit those 0-60 numbers without a dual clutch. Having said that, there's nothing like a manual transmission, it's the best way to feel like your controlling the car you're driving. Why am I even saying this, clearly you get that #SaveTheManuals

[@AustinKloud]

47 year old Subaru STI driver- I don’t vape either.

[@Altek1]

You totally negate the stereotypes, I like it! Thanks for watching!

[@AustinKloud]

Altek I just found your channel today- I like what you did with the Subaru. It’s nice 👍

[@Altek1]

Thanks bud. Is your STI stock? Still wish I spent the extra money for it when I got my WRX, live and learn I say.

[@AustinKloud]

Altek I actually got one of the 2018 type RA’s (silica black) I have not done any mods to it as it’s still under warranty. I Do have. 2008 grey Impreza hatchback that looks like your WRX. I always liked that body style.

[@Altek1]

If I'm not mistaken, the 2008 has a slim body, unless you got the STI, that had the wide body on it. Not my favorite year body style but that RA... boy oh boy am I jealous. What mods would you even do to it, it comes pretty well setup out of the box. You have good taste my friend!

[@Camilo19832001]

Oh man same with my forester. Had to do dome upgrades to the engine/body and wheels cause those cars were apparently made for lesbians... thank Subaru for a commercial they did in 2010

[@Altek1]

Hahaha this is bound to offend someone but eff it, didn't you know they were called Lesbaroos? I've been made fun of before but what do I care, it's fun to drive. The Forester can be made pretty badass pretty easily. Did you ever see the STI model in Japan, bro, it's so tight.

[@cooltu2000]

used 1995 honda del sol 56000 miles or 01 s2000 16000 70000 miles should i pull trigger im afraid odomoter scam advice old car mileage number don't add up

[@Altek1]

Ya know what's funny, two days in a row I saw the cleanest Del Sol I've ever seen with an old woman driving it. It's not impossible that it has 56k on it if the one you're looking at is a similar case. But that S2000 holds a special place in my heart and while the 16k is a lot of money considering, they'll most likely just keep going up in value. I'd look for a super low mileage example and spend a bit more since those are more likely to be beat on. What's the price of the Del Sol?

[@cooltu2000]

@@Altek1 10000$

[@TEverettReynolds]

Many cops will be eager to ticket you for an illegally modified exhaust as well as a noise violation... at least in PA. *PA Statute 175.75. Exhaust systems.* 2. The exhaust system of a vehicle may not be modified in a manner which will amplify or increase noise emitted by the motor of a vehicle above the maximum level permitted by Chapter 157 (relating to established sound levels). *157.11. Vehicular noise limits.* a. 3. less then 35 mph - 78db More then 35 mph - 84 db

[@Altek1]

I agree with you but I generally don't make much of a ruckus on local roads, I really try to keep the rpms down. Having said that, I was climbing a hill in first gear as I passed by a cop just yesterday and he was not happy with me. Had he not had someone pulled over, I'm sure he would have nabbed me for a noise violation. I'm looking to get a Grimspeed exhaust that should be much less obnoxious, just need to find an interested party for my current Invidia.