What You Can do To Keep Your Subaru Reliable.

Lately, I've seen it.. the annual blow-up job season of Subarus. I've made videos on what you can buy to make your car more reliable, I've done videos on what to monitor to ensure the proper life of the car. But what about what you need to keep in mind and what you should be doing to ensure proper longevity of your EJ20, EJ25, FA20, or FA24. As always I am open to your questions when it comes to getting the most life out of your Subaru WRX or STI!
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[@joshuawilliams1477]

I think one of the things most people overlook when modifying a car is the fact that the more mods you have the shorter it’s engine/trans life will be.

[@Smeedia]

Facts! Definitely can reduce lifespan when you start pushing it harder and farther

[@nikolaosskordas9159]

It is not as simple as that . Many mods made correctly actually make your car more reliable and they allow you to run more boost and more ignition timing without making the car less reliable than its original form . Moreover , some original parts are so reliable that they can take more power and torque without reducing their lifespan . It starts getting less reliable than stock only for really highly tuned cars...or those tuned badly which makes more than 90% of all problems encountered

[@andrewharris7868]

@@nikolaosskordas9159 I agree. Either cheap parts or not properly built. I've modded ever car I owned, and none have blown. I've always passed the cars along and seen them on the road years later.

[@robk5745]

Most mods I do are reliability mods to go along with a better tune and bolt ons. You can get plenty of power out of these cars with that. Just a tune livens these up like crazy

[@over-zelusautowerks2801]

With the mods I've pushed the stock block to at this point, I expect to get at least a little fun out of it in the 'safe' 450hp tune. But I also got into modding because I flat out KNOW this isn't going to last, and planned what I built into the next stage for the future block build. Just, if you have this kind of car and you want to build for power, always plan/build for at least a tier over what you want, and if you can, go more.

[@lastridestanding733]

Ive 130000 miles on my 97 Sti Coupe. Bought it with 40000. Never rebuilt. 4 things I done over the years, warm up 3mins, cool down 3-5 minutes sometimes more. Oil changes 5000 miles. Never absolutely dog it in 1st gear. Its been one of the most reliable cars I've owned in over 20 years driving.

[@Smeedia]

Glad to hear she's still going strong 💪

[@donovankraus433]

1st gear would b the least stressful on the engine? Surprised u change ur oil that infrequent but it sounds like you dont dog on ur car.

[@HandlewithcareVibes]

Escluse me what does dog it mean?

[@pedrozarate]

@@HandlewithcareVibes driving it hard

[@shaloon64]

@@donovankraus433 5000 miles is infrequent? I change mine every ~8000 or so and no problems in my 50,000 mile ownership

[@stringgreens6387]

Got 70k on my built motor...forged pistons, eagle rods, acl bearings...Regular maintenance is key as well as common sense. Sadly common sense isnt so common anymore.

[@Smeedia]

Unfortunately that is too true 😖

[@Martin944turbo]

Common sense is so rare that it should be a super power. No joke.

[@dannythompson1948]

Not sure it's ever been common.. that's great tho, bro? Ej20/ej25? Turbo? What car?

[@Martin944turbo]

@@dannythompson1948 Mostly turbocharged Subarus, all boxer engines, that we drive hard.

[@medotaku9360]

Never was.

[@tylerprefontaine1344]

How to keep a Subaru reliable.... watch Smeedia 🔥😂

[@Smeedia]

😉😉😉😉

[@john-danielmartin8753]

Simple

[@codykellner9985]

Soo true!!!

[@MrFordy90]

So totally true I had my STi tune modified to run wastegate pressure until coolant went above 80 Deg C. Made my EJ207 happier, and helped not fill up the catch can.

[@JamesErwin]

Spring and Fall=Boost Season. IATs and oil temps are glorious! Lol

[@Smeedia]

Damn glorious 🔥🔥🔥

[@Korupshn]

Boost season for me is Winter

[@aethro]

Your channel has been really great as a new owner of an older WRX - thanks man!

[@Smeedia]

Glad that the videos have been helping 🔥😁

[@paulmarsdensr1095]

A great video for all of us out there modifying and working on the subies. You and others are a great reference brother. Thanks for doing this video. I'm going to be out of town for subifest this year. Next year I will be there. Oh yeahhhh. Subies forever guys and gals.

[@Smeedia]

Stay safe on your trip Paul 🤙

[@goodcallfrogball553]

I can't get over the importance of this video. I have a tuned classic saab900 that was a field find, the first year of the project was just getting to "stage 0" and starting with a solid and healthy foundation. Drive the car as it is and get a feel for it and how it is going to respond to modifications and create a plan for tuning. Putting parts that work together to achieve an end goal is essential

[@oscarp9336]

Thanks for explaining why my Subie is still rock solid after 16 years. Great video!!

[@Smeedia]

Thank you! They're solid cars when cared for 🔥😁

[@ICON-11-]

Thank you soo much for sharing your knowledge with all of us 🙏. I just bought a 21 sti base model last month and although I got the 10 year warranty with the car I want to make sure I do everything I can to prevent engine failure

[@Smeedia]

Congrats on the car and anytime!

[@rsbharley4766]

Excellent video, great info . Thanks for taking the time to share. Cheers.

[@hal0mann]

Good video. I bought an 04 FXT with stage 2 OTS map. It has cobb intake and perrin catless DP. The previous owner was very moderate on the throttle all the time. It has lasted 180k miles. I got a protune for it which was his next step before I got ahold of it. It's also on the stock transmission. We both have done meticulous maintenance on the thing and it's been a reliable daily. Goes to show you can keep these engines alive if you take CARE of them

[@Smeedia]

100%! As long as they've been taken care of they'll last 🔥

[@06wrxRAR]

air intakes are hit or miss for Ej motors in general due to sensitive changes of AFR and leaner combustion. even if tuned they are still sensitive to the engine.

[@jacobbaker9389]

I just paid for a full motor maintenance job. Killer B oil pickup & baffle, cyl 4 mod, timing belt, spark plugs, oil. And I have an AOS. It was pricey but the peice of mind is worth it.

[@GR_FOURRARIS]

great post. A LOT of people need to hear this!!! but often they dont even bother too look at information available before they start modding their cars.

[@aayushgore4245]

Thank you boss! 🙏 your videos have always been helpful 💯🔥

[@vlNemesislv_]

Love these videos man they honestly do help a ton

[@Smeedia]

Glad that they're helping 🔥🙏

[@RJ7Vlogs]

This is why i always say Subarus are good cars and reliable. Most of the time one of these cars blow is usually because of the person behind the wheel not the car. My 2012 WRX is at 145km so close to 100miles and is on the stock trans stock motor stock turbo and havent had a major issue with the car. This was an amazing video!

[@Smeedia]

Thank you and 100%! They're not time bombs like people make them out to be

[@owenbooth658]

Mines a little 4 banger outback I daily drive it on top of taking it through every mud hole I see she still rolling fine you just can't be listening to your friends when they are telling you to whip it whip it.

[@victorestrada2382]

I jus got a 2002 subaru 2.5rs a couple months ago and ive been doing lil things to get it running better it just has alot of old parts, this video helped out alot thank u 🙏🏽 motivated more to get this restored

[@Smeedia]

Eyyyy love some 2.5 action 🔥 glad the video helped my friend!

[@edenilsonhernandez5790]

I loved the video keep going and u gonna keep growing🙌🏾 also u should make a video what are good things to buy for make ur car get more horsepower or fast!

[@Smeedia]

Have that one on the last to make 🤙🔥

[@kalenfleming9570]

My 2009 Forester X (non-turbo) is still stock and still going strong at 195,000 miles damn near 200k. Thought bout slapping a turbo on it, but putting turbos on n/a Subaru can really mess everything up. So I just got exterior mods on it and not touching the engine compartment, just leaving it stock

[@RadBunny2269]

I chose to remain stock. Watching this, I’m greatly satisfied in my decision becase this is too much work for me, man. Mods are cool if you’re ready to put the time & Mooney in it - I still believe in buying the stock speed i desire & keep it stock. I’ll stick to being slow in my fully OEM Fozzy & living vicariously through others’ mods 😅.

[@Smeedia]

Nothing wrong with that 🔥🔥

[@codykellner9985]

Dpe...I have already been doing these things because I watch your videos ...your awesome

[@phillipsstanley]

All this is so helpful. Coming from the Honda world this all new to me. I have '06 Fozzy 2.5 XT and it is my baby so now I can take care of it the way it should be.

[@tylerthepally637]

Keeping to the maintenance schedule and driving it properly account for 80% I think. Ringland failure and rod bearing failure (apart from 2012-2016 defective blocks after the tsunami's) are usually 100% attributed to the driver. Lugging the engine in too high of a gear cruising, or getting into boost at too low of RPMs in too high of a gear is literally asking for your rings to crumble but it's how every drives (you trying to save MPG in a turbo subaru!?). Modding is it's own can of worms, and can exacerbate issues by problematic drivers.

[@joshuathomas4934]

Correct. Blown EJ motors are typically 99% the fault of the owner. The 1% include cracked oil pickups, backed out oil pump seal plate and defects. I don’t understand how people blow these motors so much. Mine gets thrashed on backroads and driven daily. It an oil filter change ever 2500-3000 miles and all the maintenance is always up to date. I have an intake, turbo inlet, throttle body hose, and the rest is bone stock. I have a custom tune on the car tune for 91 octane and I run 93. I use 5w 40 rotella and my car has been the most reliable car Iv ever seen. It’s a tank. Never ever ever ever ever have issues with my car aside from a rat eating the wires to my coolant temp sensor. I love my wrx. It’s AMAZING.

[@tylerthepally637]

@@joshuathomas4934 Seconded my man. I'm intake/inlet/ebcs/downpipe, was driving it over 25k miles a year for the first 3.5 years I owned it, down terrible roads and conditions doing client home visits. Nothing has broken that wasn't directly my fault. At 150k now. 2011.

[@thatorangesti8864]

This is couldn’t have come at a better time, especially since I’m getting my first STI in the next few a days to week😍 I’m lucky enough to have the short block recall done on the STI I’m buying. I am however looking into buying a closed deck short block or Type RA short block. I am talking to a well known performance shop that is in NY 4 hours away from me.

[@Smeedia]

What block are you looking at going with? 👀🔥

[@thatorangesti8864]

@@Smeedia idk yet, I’m going to modify the car as it sits right now to make about 360whp, he has a list for me for that build, then the built motor I’m thinking of going rotated turbo kit, to handle at least 700, I’ll probably be doing the build myself but buy the short block, I’m a mechanic but with this build I don’t wanna mess something up. That’s only one build I’ll be doing though.👀🔥 I will probably start a channel for both subies I have and see if I can get a fan base going.

[@bakuganbrawler200]

@@thatorangesti8864 hey bro I’m planning to as well, did you buy it and how is it?

[@Not_Krzysztof]

Always informative content. 👍🏻

[@Smeedia]

💪🙏

[@williamnguyen6859]

Keep up the good work. All love my guy

[@Smeedia]

❤❤❤

[@over-zelusautowerks2801]

If you're wanting a stock block pushed to 'safe' limits, that's about what I just built. :) Just finishing up my last parts with my tuner, and looks like I'll be hitting about the numbers I was shooting for. I built for track & street (non-daily), and have pretty much every single longevity/positive mod you can add at this point (very similar to yours), along with going ETS rotated & ELH. I'm sitting at 390hp/350lb on o93 10%, @19psi after the first tune session. Obviously we could go more, but it's a good 'safe' area to be in. For E85, my local station actually tests at 90%. During the tune, I ran into the fuel pump needing more power, so installing the IWire Kit/Studs as we speak to get finished next week. We're shooting for 450hp/380lb @ 19psi, though I might push it to 20 and see how it goes. Otherwise, after the tune, I cannot believe how smooth, and QUIET it is. The only time you know it's a beast is under mid/heavy throttle. Otherwise regular driving, you would barely notice it was heavily modified. It's a whole different car now, and it feels verrry nice! I highly recommend doing it. Just as he says, don't cheap out. Get the good stuff, as you'll pay more in money and time later on.

[@Smeedia]

Sounds like a fun and solid build! Huge huge huge to not cheap out on mods!

[@over-zelusautowerks2801]

@@Smeedia Oh it's awesome! The S207 NBR build is now just about ready to show, but of course now it's coming into late Fall/Winter so nowhere to show it here in WI! A whole lot of learning going on, but have to say you've been quite the inspiration of getting over my fear building all this over the past couple years. I'm coming from building older Dodge Turbo 2.2's back in the late 90's/2000's. After blowing up a Lancer Shelby back when, was very much nervous about getting back into the car scene.. But it's just part of the DNA, and got my dream car finally to build. So this time, am making sure to do things right and learn as much as I can. Is also why it's super important to do all my own work, as you can take a ton of pride home knowing when finally done and successful, that warm glow of success.. Even though you have to go through so much pain to get there! But, the reactions of people who see it and know, I never expected just driving around.. I really need to get this out more, because it seems folks like it. :D

[@douglasbrill1376]

@@clintusmaximus I got 400wheel an 400 TQ and it’s more than enough to have fun with lol 😂I want 1000 next build

[@douglasbrill1376]

@@clintusmaximus that’s what I want is to be scared 😂😂

[@jessebracero6817]

Hey 👋 hope you are doing okay! I have been following you for quite sometime and have learned a lot about Subarus. I wanted to ask you a question and hoping get sone help. I own a 2015 Subaru Impreza Wrx and wanted to replace the Purge solenoid valve but can’t where is located. Can you please tell me where is the Purge solenoid valve location on the 2015 Subaru Impreza Wrx?. Thanks Bro appreciate you a lot.

[@uprightmessi559]

Great vid as usual bro🤙🏽 Ima change my oil return line on my ej this weekend lol. Just take off dp and I'll be good right, or should I loosen the upPipe a bit 🥴

[@Smeedia]

Loosen the turbo on the up pipe, will make it 100X easier

[@airborneSGT]

I'm a new 2020 STi owner and this is gold.

[@Smeedia]

Congrats on the car 🔥😁

[@rickyr7369]

I got my wrx last week with 56k and the first thing I did was have the 60k service done. And multi point done so I new were to start working on it now I know we're to start diving in. In my case the shocks were leaking so I'll be doing a coil swap this week love your videos

[@Smeedia]

Congrats on the car and will be jight and day difference on coilovers!

[@DGXJ94]

Also, with modding the stock block, I’d be real careful on a 350+ build on a stock non-RA block. The case likes to flex under high boost/high power and can lead to rod bearing failure. If your doing a rebuild, spend the money to size up the case bolts and head studs. And with speed density, although kinda unnecessary on stock turbo, is beneficial cause your taking air temps and density post turbo and intercooler which helps you prevent being hard on the car with high intake temps.

[@imistimed6901]

No matter how many times I've seen it and heard it...lots of folks RARELY ever follow the parts list for the OTS tunes. And I'm so glad you friggin touched on buying quality parts. So many subarus around my area with improper OTS tunes and crappy parts put on them! BUT THE BEST THING IVE HEARD IN THIS, that I even stress to everyone I talk to - Know what parts are going on and learn about how they're effecting your engine. Plan out what you're gonna do to the engine, research and research again about the parts and how they contribute, then shoot for it. This ain't no simple AutoZone special type of car and deserves to be treated with quality parts. Give these babies some damn Gucci and LV type of love 😂

[@Smeedia]

THE OTS TUNES LITERALLY TELL YOU WHAT PARTS TO USE, I don't know how to make it any easier or why people deviate from the map notes.

[@imistimed6901]

@@Smeedia right?! It's so sad to see that people really don't read or care to do research then go and blame the car for their ignorance imo 😥

[@hunterwest3689]

I just bought a ‘13 WRX hatch, and it’s bone stock and I love it. I’ve been working on cars (repairs, not mods or tuning) for about five years. I was driving a ‘93 Camry and it had all kinds of cheap parts, no problem. But now looking at actual good quality parts for Subies, holy shit 😂 I see why people say they’re money pits. Buuuuut, I also know, good parts and regular maintenance means a longer engine life. So I’m hyped to see what I can do with this thing. Awesome video man, you made a ton of great points!

[@Smeedia]

Congrats on the car dude and they are definitely money pits but awesome cars 🔥

[@SigmaGuy1984]

Another great video, with that being said to touch on some of the things you discussed regarding the access port. I never really knew where my numbers should be regarding my intake temperature, heavy knock as well as my air fuel, basically what I am asking is what are the things I should be looking for, what should I be monitoring and where should my numbers be? I know you probably touched on the subjects but as I stated in a previous video I am literally watching all of your videos from day-to-day. I drive a 2014 wrx.

[@lvm182]

he linked his complete cobb access port guide in the video card (top right) maybe starting there would be ideal

[@raptoranderson]

I have an AEM oil pressure sensor and I use that to gauge (excuse the pun) when the car is warm enough. Typically oil pressure is around 97 PSI at first startup and I wait till it drops to 90 before driving, which also is almost exactly the same amount of time it takes for the coolant gauge to rise up a couple notches from zero. Probably 4 minutes or so. I figure that the oil is warmer than it was at cold start and the coolant is also beginning to circulate meaning the thermostat has opened, so it’s safe to drive. I do this every. single. time. I drive the car.

[@cryptikreap795]

man im so anxiety ridden for my poor ol EJ that i bought from some shady dealer on accident (learned they were shady after i bought the car, looking at you boss motors) and its got 180k on it currently, i literally give it atleast 10 minutes before i even think about driving it LOL

[@izzyb6657]

My first and current car is a 2006 Subaru WRX. Original engine and transmission. Only mods I put on it is an Injen cold air intake and a Greddy TI-C catback exhaust. It’s at 160000 miles and it’s still going strong. Changed the clutch and flywheel 3 times in its lifespan. Changed the timing belt with a performance belt for more lasting durability and replace the starter, ps pump and alternator once as well as spark plugs. It’s just common sense to maintain your car and know it’s limits instead of complaining that a head gasket was blown due to bad engineering rather than faulting the owner for being negligent.

[@Aza13]

At how many miles dis you replace the starter, ps pump and alternator?

[@corymoosesweat8077]

Awesome video brother keep up the good work

[@Smeedia]

Thank you Cory 🔥🙏

[@heybob680]

I own a 2006 wrx.just recently installed a sti mtr an 6 spd trans and all the needed features makes 24 lbs. Boost on 93 Oct. gonna go E 85,,,.it's fun to drive daily.

[@imoffendedthatyouareoffended]

as usual, great video, and a post a lot of people need to see lmao.

[@Smeedia]

I hope they see this one 😅

[@ChanoWilliams]

@@Smeedia I'm definitely sharing this with a buddy whose STI EJ just developed rod knock. Thanks, Tanner!

[@robk5745]

I like your comment about the reality of the the block. It’s not forged, it’s a flat 4 and it has a shitty tune from factory. The fact that you can make 400ish to the crank reliably is actually impressive lol

[@Smeedia]

Gotta remember they're cast aluminum engines. Nit the strongest lol

[@robk5745]

@@Smeedia lol truth

[@drewlindsay3553]

The factory pistons in an ej207 sti are forged and how can you prove that the factory tune is bad my legacy gt has 300,000 miles on the stick tune

[@robk5745]

@@drewlindsay3553 my comment does not apply to jdm cars, their tunes are way better. Usdm sucks

[@ogfromutube9649]

Def agree!! Also proper crankcase ventilation. Too much crankcase pressure will blow out seals or worse. If your adding a 100hp+ to your motor enlarging the hose size or introducing a catch can will help dramatically. Water meth ppl like to say its not for daily i call bs! Ive been running snow performance kit with a 40% methanol 60% water mix. Drastically reduces iat probably as much or more then an upgraded intercooler. Its only used in high boost situations so 1 gallon will usually last 30 to 40 gallons of gas. And will also cut down on carbom buildup significantly. Its like steam cleaning your valves. Even more helpful on direct injection. My tuner has my cel set to flash when knock is detected so i know to let off. I monitor oil temp with a 1/8 npt hollow drain plug. Super easy no drilling and tapping. Funny you said that, my coolant temp will reach half long before the oil temp moves. I usually wait til ay least 100°f before driving and 150°f before getting into boost. A wideband is super helpful at making sure your afr are stable. Pretty much a necessity. Aem x series with bosch 4.9 have the fastest response time and are extremely reliable. Boost gauge also helpful especially if tuned with boostcut eliminated. Replacing any old rubber vac lines with silicone can save you from air leaks and lean conditions. In volvo world we call this stage 0. Plugs ( 1 step colder if plan on adding power and properly gapped will save blowout .020-.024 depending on engine) coils or wires cap rotor, replacing any aged stiff rubber hoses, refreshing pcv system, changing fluids (believe it or not brake fluid goes bad), coolant flush, back flushing heater core, checking any mounts and steering components, intake throttle amd exhaust gaskets. As far as fuel i always always run 93 and often add vp racing octanium (adds 7 octane) believe me it works. Ive ran as much ignition timing on wmi and 93+vp as ppl on e85 with zero knock even on hot days with multiple runs and on stock intercooler. And almosy as important as letting your car warm is letting it cool. Dont run it hard down the highway get off the exit to your house and shut it right off. My buddy blew the turbo om his legacy gt got it glowing and shut it down right after. Youll coke the bearings, it literally bakes the oil into char. Turbos and downpipes can get as hot at 1900°f so you can imagine what that does to oil that stops flowing. Think of it like that stream that doesnt freeze in the winter while all those still ponds have 2 ft of ice. You can get a turbo timer that runs off oil temp but i jist use the old saab suggested method they used to stamp on the sun visor. "Let car run 90 seconds at idle before shutting down". Im sure i missed some other good points and apologize i in no way am meaning to hijack your video. Just thought id offer my 8 cents (was quite a bit more then .02)

[@06wrxRAR]

my 06wrx is still healthy with cobb ots stage 2 map since 2012. only upgraded the suspension bits and followed maintenance. always garaged

[@rik4040]

Lmao, you have me laughing with the skyrocket piston, I just imagine that happening. I got a 2011 WRX stock in August 2020, been watching you and learned a lot. Already got AOS, 4th cylinder cooling mod, Cobb SF intake, Kartboy short-throw shifter, bushing, and the AP.

[@Smeedia]

Eyyyyy already got a solid set up for some mods 🔥😁

[@giovannipacheco8730]

I think Knock needs to be discussed more. I remember when I purchased my first Subaru and AP, I would see -2 knock on the freeway and I would get anxiety lol! I spoke with my tuner and he said it was “phantom knock” and he clarified it what was going on. I had never heard of it in the past.

[@Smeedia]

I can make a subaru knock video 💪

[@giovannipacheco8730]

@@Smeedia do it! 😁

[@cryptikreap795]

thatd be correct from what ive heard online and between my tuner and a few other tuners, there is alot of phantom knock with the EJ's, the knock sensor is just so anxiety ridden and i hate it, but its also super helpful

[@rebelliousgoat1557]

Love you my dude!

[@Smeedia]

GOOOOOAT! ❤🔥

[@Immortalcheese]

i plan on keeping my 21 STI bone stock with the exception of some cosmetics. But I am still terrified of blowing up because the more I look the more horror stories i see. But I know that's also biased as no one goes online to post about how well their car is running. Your advice is good. I plan on babying the car a lot as it is an inner-city car so I don't see the point of going full throttle at lights anyway

[@DJSAS]

Would be Awesome to see your way doing a carbon clean mate.

[@Smeedia]

Ohhhh yes 🔥

[@dmaxrn82]

Hey Smeedia, I have a question for you. Ive been watching your videos for the past couple of weeks. I own a 2013 STi hatch. Im really impressed with how quickly you tear down these EJ engines and trouble shoot any issues. Just curious, are you a mechanic by trade or did you teach yourself how to work on Subarus so efficiently? Im only asking cause working on my STi has always intimidated me for some reason. I am mechanically inclined and good with basic tools. I just did the DP on my STi about 2 weeks ago and it wasnt so bad after all. Not sure why I was so afraid to dive into it. Please keep the videos coming. Very informative.

[@Smeedia]

Definitely more to come and all self taught, I never went to school for mechanics, never have gotten an ASE Certificate or anything. Just self taught. Best way to learn IMO is to just dive into them 🙏🙏🙏

[@dmaxrn82]

@@Smeedia installing my DP gave me the confidence to continue working on my STi myself. That's pretty cool that you taught yourself how to work on these engines and your making these videos. You break it all down very simply. Watching your videos has been helping me understand these engines alot more. They're not as intimidating as they may seem to work on I'm realizing. Please make more videos. The Subaru community needs you 😂 👍✌️.

[@ogfromutube9649]

With youtube were all mechanics lol.. I put an 04 coil pack etm throttle vvt cam motor into a 98. Drilled end of cams for rotor plate and distributor, swapped the 98 accessory bracket amd accessories, swapped the 98 intake manifold and cable throttle, and ran the vvt solenoid to a 12v load dependent source. Before this i had never done more then brake pads and oil changes. Hours upon hours of forum reading. Now i have done about everything on the car but engine internals.

[@JuanWick2010]

I currently have a ‘19 STI. STI short shift. Got it at 5k miles. Now it’s got 23k miles. It’s my legitimate daily driver. Love it!!!! Glad to hear it’s the S209 setup😅. And that 3rd gear has been “beefed up?” The only mod it has is a COBB AOS. Didn’t know what the heck it was at first until I did some “Google Fu”. Glad the last owner invested in that. My mechanic that I’ve been going to for years said it was a solid install. I do Full Synth 5W30 oil changes exactly at 5k intervals but always keep a reserve quart. I rotate the tires every other oil change. Pain in the ass with that plastic panel I have to remove every time because I jack up and crawl under the car to change oil. Learned as a driver by trade that older engines and anything turbo will consume oil despite being in tip-top condition. Lots of highway commuting is why I have a longer oil change interval and per Subaru, which I kinda am skeptical deep inside. I’ll change intervals to 3k/3months. These STIs are an investment. You don’t hear this that much about cars unless it’s Porsche, Supra etc. I’ve been, recently, offered more than I paid for it! It’ll hold its value for the most part even after this used car bubble bursts. Every car I’ve ever had is always considered a POS from a POS manufacturer. I’ve always maintained my vehicles. And if any upgrades were done. I bit the bullet and got quality parts. I’m just an enthusiast and can turn a wrench but if I am unsure I will go to an established pro and have what I need done. I remember my 05 WRX Wagon, my first AWD turbo…autobox, always downshifted that thing to stay outta OD😒. I used royal purple in that one regularly. I was only in my 20s 😬. Never had issues with my Subies. Just did routine maintenance. Never modded them extensively for that matter. I hated that I couldn’t use my STI during last winter because I knew that it was sitting on 19” summer tires and couldn’t invest in all seasons or a separate 18” snow-tire/wheel yet. I have a Wrangler as a backup 🤣. Would a COBB AccessPort be beneficial without having modded anything???? Or a professional tune?? Just wanna help the STI be more efficient, smooth and prolong its life… And make more HP on the side 😈 I plan on keeping this STI. Or until Subaru convinces me to buy whatever STI reboot (8 Speed DSG-ish) 400hp Wagon they come up with in the future 🤣 🤣.

[@rizzmain2232]

Currently sitting at 250kms v4 sti original motor and running gear . The engine surprisly holding up.

[@redneckwithtech8976]

You wanna talk about heat soak, try Rallycross and grid, good lord iat's go through the roof. And not much you can do. Love the video man! Hit multiple nails on the head!

[@Smeedia]

IATs 📈📈📈 my old TMIC set up on my 07 STI would cook bacon when I ran Auto cross in Louisiana 😳

[@liammcknight3845]

How do you monitor IATs? I have a JDM WRX bugeye running 307bhp and 352nm/TQ so pretty good for a td04 with turboback and upgraded fuel pump. I was going to upgrade to an STI tmic but got told it wasn't worth it since I don't race it's a daily driver. How do I monitor IATs and is the WRX top mount fine for this use?

[@redneckwithtech8976]

@@liammcknight3845 I used a laser thermometer when I pop my hood at grid. I've got an Sti intercooler that I'm going to install a thermocouple into and I've also got the sprayer kit as well. And I'll monitor iat's with the thermocouple though when I get there

[@chriskolitz7511]

Got knock? Add methanl/water injection 👍 I've been running the Snow Performance stage 2 setup for ~40k miles on my FA WRX. 112k on the odometer and I've been auto-crossing it since March 2020.

[@Smeedia]

Solid kit! Have the fail safe added as well or are you only using it for the cooling?

[@chriskolitz7511]

I am the fail safe lol. Just have to make sure the LED lights up and always monitor the AP for any funny business. The only issues I've had are with the quick connect fittings going to the tank/pump coming off after being hit by the sub woofer (It's been addressed now lol) and draining all the fuel into the spare tire compartment. "What is that smell? Why is the car running shitty? Oh..."

[@omialmanza1900]

Recommend Smeedia aggressively😈😈💥💥💥👍🏼+ Thanks for addressing a video like this👏🏼👏🏼!

[@Smeedia]

❤🔥❤🔥

[@BluntJoint]

Good looking out homie

[@djteako]

Great vid. Hoping more people will finally "get it" Subies get a bad rep. for being "ticking time bombs" but 98% of the time, they blow because of either abuse/poor maintenance, or idiots slapping on a bunch of bolt on parts modding the crap out of it without building up a proper foundation first ! I am surpised you didn't touch on the one thing, and probably why you are seeing a lot more "my subie blew up" posts. The weather is getting cooler, which makes it easier to go do burnouts/drifting in the parking lots. #1 way to blow your subie up real fast!

[@Smeedia]

Trying to help where I can 🔥🙏

[@gerardogalindo8943]

Tanner I remember you saying to never run an intake and downpipe on newer STi's, so I've been debating on going "stage 1+" or straight to "stage 2". That being said I've been talking to Neil at Bren Tuning and he claims he's able to tune for it to run safely on stock fuel system with Cobb intake and Cobb GESI downpipe. I already have cylinder 4 cooling mod and AOS as well as an AWE track edition catback. I Just wanted to see what you thought being how you always suggest to talk to your tuner plus I trust your judgment 100%. Thanks

[@Smeedia]

You can tune it to work on the stock fuel system but gains are minimal and not worth it IMO. Tunes are less aggressive and are held back on boost. You can but I still wouldn't advise it

[@gerardogalindo8943]

@@Smeedia cool so than I'll just go with the down pipe and heat mitigation mods.

[@pab1it05]

Fuego my dude! How about rubbers? It would be interesting to see a vid on all rubbers and boots that you would change on these 15+ year cars... What i found its quite extensive and people don't know exactly what is effecting their basic driving experience due to rubbers and boots, i'm sure i would have missed some as we all have, it would interesting to know all the little things....You've got bo$$ content, always helpful keep up that magic!

[@Smeedia]

I've done one like that before but should prob do an updated one 💪 also appreciate the support my dude 🔥

[@KingCobra_45]

Thanks for the info, just traded my 18 legacy for a WRX GT . Glad it has a reported great trans cooler

[@cccircles8811]

Also good idea to let the car sit for a minute before shutting it off to prevent hot oil from baking its self to the I side of the turbo

[@nixter1618]

Thata why there is a turbo coolant tank right next to the turbo.

[@fingertaping]

#1 thing my tuner told me was: Please let your car come up to operating temperature before driving hard.

[@Smeedia]

Yes yes yes yes

[@selwyn13]

Can u make a separate video like this, but geared more towards a daily driver non-performance stock Subaru for your avg Joe? More specifically for 2.5 Liter engine that has little to no mods. I.e. Forester, legacy, Outback, etc., nor is a “sports” trim. Just discovering your channel and I’m pretty impressed. U explain things relatively rookie friendly. Keep up the good work👍

[@Smeedia]

I can definitely see what I can whip up 🔥🙏 and thank you! 😁

[@Kunal636]

This might be one of the greatest videos on KZbin, I've seen. Do you recommend a certain oil pressure range during the warm up process? Right now, if my drive is gonna be a short one, I try to let my car warm up longer (try to get my oil pressure in the mid 80s). If its a longer drive than my warm up time is shortened and I am pretty easy on the throttle, until oil pressure is around the 80s. Also running flex fuel so the e85 def keeps things cooler

[@builtoverbought8911]

It’s been a bit of a shock for my brother going from a 4Runner to a WRX😂…let’s just say he’s not used to “maintaining” a vehicle. Video was super helpful for things to look for and understand with the subarus👍🏻

[@Smeedia]

Definitely a diffrent breed of car, glad the video helped 💪🔥😁

[@antonioreyes4322]

I hate that I like subarus, luckily I have my reliable Toyota’s to keep on driving when they break

[@supercarsofwichita9485]

If I end up getting the wrx I'm looking at it will probably be my less reliable vehicle even though my 4runner is close to 300k, tho the odometer has been broken way before I owned it so who knows it could be past that by now

[@cardentyler]

I was offered a 02 wrx for my 04 v6 4Runner with 270k miles and even tho the Subaru has way less miles it’s still scary to think about trading a Toyota for a Subaru 😂

[@ericMT]

I came from the Porsche world where they recommend oil changes every 10k miles or yearly and I can confirm that it is not the same with EJ engines. Just because both are boxer engines does not mean they are the same. It’s not that expensive or difficult to change oil (and filter!) every 3000 miles

[@Smeedia]

Can do it for $40 and 20 minutes out of the day. Dubsrus are somewhat temperamental at times

[@ericMT]

@@Smeedia I’ve had good results with that Rotella diesel oil. 192k miles and still running strong at 18psi (original stock turbo still)

[@Smeedia]

Ran Rotella for years before swapping to motul, good oil 🔥

[@tommieboi707]

@@ericMT what year is your subie?

[@danielnunez4300]

this was the most informative video for these cars. i plan to get a used 2011 wrx 60,000 miles. so i want to be able to maintain and upkeep it to be the best daily driver, but also impress some people that go for a ride. what should i upgrade / do for these needs.

[@Smeedia]

What are your power goals for the car? 🙏🙏

[@bryanwarren2578]

Been considering a '16 STi Limited I saw a few days ago... Came across your channel doing research. Of everything I've seen so far it makes me want it more every day... Time to get with the bank me thinks 🤔 😌 😎

[@Smeedia]

Eyyyy glad to hear! Keep me posted if you pick it up 🥳

[@bryanwarren2578]

@@Smeedia I got it today! 2016 STi Limited It has an aftermarket exhaust (not sure from where... there's no markings on it but noticeably louder than stock), aftermarket wheels, Tien coilovers, K&N air filter, tow hook installed, and tinted windows. I'm super excited to see it in my driveway finally!!! Thnx again for the informative videos. I'll be following your channel and a few others for all the goodness this car has to offer!

[@Smeedia]

Eyyyy congrats Bryan!!!

[@ahhason]

Everyone, make sure you get a AMS intake mani like he shows in the background. It will make engine last 4 ever.

[@Smeedia]

😅😅😅

[@CarDietrich]

1. Keep it stock 2. Do the proper maintenance 3. Keep it stock 4. Change the oil every 6,000 miles 5. Keep it stock 6. Check the oil every 1,000 miles, top off as needed 7. Keep it stock 8. KEEP IT STOCK Thank you for coming to my Ted Stock

[@Smeedia]

No need to keep it stock just modify it the right way and do oil changes every 3K miles.

[@dakota5041]

​@@Smeedia I've found that my 2.5i likes the 3k intervals on royal purple, any longer it gets pretty dark and cold starts make valvetrain noise

[@Joolz1982]

Useful stuff cheers for this. Regards waiting for oil not just coolant is great advice. I try to wait 20mins then oil gets up to temp in my 2017 GT86 before revving high (if I do).

[@Smeedia]

🙏🙏🙏

[@ararson4710]

Well said bro, thats what I said to most customer when they ask me when modifying subaru.

[@Smeedia]

🙏🙏🙏

[@erichuynh1403]

Hey Tanner! I had a relatively involved question for you this time around. I own a 21 STi and I am all about making the car as reliable as possible (heavily inspired by you). So far I have an IAG street AOS and GDT Cylinder 4 Cooling Mod hooked up to the engine. I think I am ready to take the next step with a few bolts-ons (for reliability). My ultimate goal for this next step is to install a COBB Front Mount Intercooler (cause its carb legal haha) and Killer B EQL Headers. Maybe a COBB Redline intake. I plan to run near stock horsepower for now. My question for you is: will running a COBB intake, COBB FMIC, and Killer b headers on stock fuel system and stock downpipe cause the EJ257 to lean out? Do you seen any issues with this set up?

[@Smeedia]

You can do it but you won't really see any of the benefits of the mods without st minimum doing injectors and a Fuel pump 😖

[@erichuynh1403]

@@Smeedia Gotcha! In all honesty its more for reliability than any sort of power gains, but I'll just have to wait and see how it goes! Thanks for the reply 🔥

[@bryanribey]

@@erichuynh1403 what did you end up doing?

[@pw85___]

Thank you, for putting BAD OWNERS on notice. Always the biggest 🐘 in the room. A fool owner who doesn't follow the correct path always ends up breaking some shit.

[@Smeedia]

Not trying to put anyone on blast but gotta be said 😅🙏

[@pw85___]

@@Smeedia THEY KNOW who they be! 🥴😆

[@andyrasmussen2222]

Hey Tanner! Any E-Tuners you could recommend? Always love the content! Excited to see the future with the VW!

[@Smeedia]

Delicious tuning, BBR, ambott 😁

[@GaragebuiltOriginal]

Taylordtuning brentuning or phatbotti tuning also

[@d-a-e]

Tomei timing belt guide is a must to make sure that timing belt doesn't skip. OEM part is useless when compared to it

[@followtheornghat]

3 in a row maybe?

[@Smeedia]

4 in a row!

[@followtheornghat]

@@Smeedia is it 4 in a row first... Thought just 3 xD can you tell I'm bored?

[@Smeedia]

I thought It was 9 row? 👀

[@followtheornghat]

@@Smeedia row row row your boat. Slowly down the stream. Just reminded me to order oil stuff before my trip so I can do it right when I get back.

[@Kyontheotakugamer]

8:49 this is the reason why i bought a IAG stage 2.5 closed deck short block. its sitting in my room and slowly gathering all of the parts to summon the forbbiden one in the future

[@cmd_76]

Love your channel. Keep up the excellent work. Very informative. I have one question for you. I'm new to the Subaru brand. I just bought a 21 STI. Not going to track it..will be my daily driver for most part. Have a cat-back invidia R400 exhaust. Any recommendation as to which type of intake I should install? I won't be doing any further engine mods to it. Any suggestion would be appreciated. Thx

[@Smeedia]

Cobb SF intake with the accessport is the way to go 🔥🙏

[@cmd_76]

@@Smeedia Thank you bud. Will look into it. Appreciate your guidance

[@thain94]

Great video dude!! Thank you

[@Smeedia]

❤❤❤

[@nrw510]

Along with the belts. Double check the pulleys/tensioner and the water pump. Had both a water pump fail and a timing belt tensioner fail that cost me 2 engines.

[@Smeedia]

Tensioner is a big one!

[@Antilag99]

I am using on all my subarus link standalone ecu always great results better then cobb better then oem ecu so much options just simply the best 👌🏽

[@Smeedia]

Standalone will always be 💪

[@chadsklapsky5901]

Hey Subie nation! I have a 99 JDM Subie Legacy gt twin turbo vdc wagon. I'm lovin it. 180xxx km previous owner took very good care of it. I am a first time Subaru owner.

[@rianhart4143]

NAILED IT! I totally agree, I’m on my 3rd engine which would have never happened if I knew what I know now. Good job. ?? What is that car set up for that it does not have an Intercooler? This Makes me want to post video about type of oil.

[@streetcarmedia]

When I built my wagon I made sure I spent on top parts I was told by a tuner years ago spend the big money once is better than spending it twice on cheap parts which will cost more in the long run

[@Smeedia]

Facts, I've learned the hard way. Buy it once so you don't have to buy it again

[@JayJay._.]

literally just bought a 2013 wrx. perfect timing

[@Smeedia]

Congrats on the car my dude 🔥😁

[@KevlarWagon]

Didn't realize it at the time, but pretty sure I took a couple pictures of your car, last Saturday. Saw it parked on my way out from snagging some smoothies, and had to share with a friend. Small world!

[@Smeedia]

Eyyyy!! South hill area? 🔥

[@KevlarWagon]

@@Smeedia this was actually Kitsap area! Saw it outside Maxx Nutrition, as I was walkin out. If it wasn't yours, definitely inspiring others!! 🚕😅

[@Smeedia]

I was out there a few weeks ago 😅🔥

[@ebercastanon995]

I got at 2019 wrx CVT, I got it brand new, I put about 42k miles on it before I got it protuned, before I got it tuned I got an ETS intake installed, ran it with OTS and my Anxy port kept going at it, installed a catted invidia downpipe and IAG AOS, the car is now at 87k(I use it for work, drive around sf) i warm it up everytime it’s cold start loud, when i push it I don’t smell any burnt oil, I’m waiting for 100k+ mods or just swapping to to STI transmission when the time comes! So far the car has beeen going at it happily

[@Smeedia]

Glad to hear that it's been treating you well! 🥳🥳🥳

[@bad_puppy_6740]

Killer B featured your video in their FB page! 💪🏻

[@Smeedia]

Whaaaaat going to take a peek!

[@semaphorism]

All stuff I've been doing with my STI. I do oil changes at 3000km

[@bradgreen987]

Fuel quality is everything in a tuned wrx/ sti. My '16 wrx cobb accessport goes wild with crappy gas

[@Smeedia]

They FREAK OUT, happened with the 05 a while ago

[@ryanics2291]

I got a stock 2017 wrx. I let my car warm up AT LEAST to 150 degrees (oil temp in the mini display in the dash above the radio) With the way I drive, even if I am on the high way for a long time going 75 or something, I have never gotten temps higher than 208 (and that's after going full boost to pass some one) When I slow her down to 75 and stay there, the car temps drop to 204-207. Then every once in a while, I'll get off and get gas and let my car cool down a bit, and she gets to 194-197 (depending on if it's a hot summer day or cold winter) I've had litterally no issues with that. Also checking the oil every once in a while and making sure everything is good. I know right now I gotta handle my oil drain seal (starting to do leaks but very minor). 90k miles and no rod knock. Fantastic car that will work great if I keep up with everything.

[@tekbuck9079]

2015 sti stage 2, cobb catted downpipe cobb sf intake, tomei exhaust, 136k km and doesn’t burn oil yet and oil stays clear/clean for 5000km which is my oil change routine

[@jessehobart6871]

Man, you like a super Subaru genius! I don't claim to really know shit about cars but I generally can at least follow the conversation and understand what's being said but watching this just showed me that I am a straight dumb dumb cause.... just so much flew right over my head and had me sitting there with mouth open, going what what, what did he say. I feel like chick right now or something. respect bro!

[@Czzzz19]

What’s a good oil temp to get before I start to drive? Maybe u could do a oil temp/ pressure sensor install video? I drive a 2013 sti so maybe something on a ej but that’s being pretty picky haha great video as always

[@Smeedia]

I've got one in oil pressure, but typically I shoot for around 140 ish 🔥🙏

[@Fighka303]

Love you dawg, wish I knew more about reinforcements for the ej205 like bare minimum… arp head studs or hybrid motor… closed deck vs open deck… safe torque and hp for a stock block and when to reinforce

[@Smeedia]

Fairly similar to an EJ25, same guidelines 🙏

[@TheOtherGygax]

You can use this advice for any car project. You have to fix issues before you try to build up.

[@Smeedia]

Always gotta fix the issued first!

[@fishmanroly7450]

I don't own a Subaru never have but they've sparked my interest I'm one of the few people that I actually like the new Subaru WRX Thinking about actually getting one but I'm scared because I keep on hearing stories about Subaru's blowing up your video is very informative though I've always change my oil at 3K even synthetic. Oil is cheap compared to repairs.

[@bryanribey]

Just keep it stock, let it warm up, and take care of it and it will last.

[@D-Mize3]

Love the advise! Thanks!

[@Smeedia]

Anytime! 🔥 appreciate the support!

[@Mike_44]

Great advice! Keep it stock & buy only OEM(best R&D) or reputable quality aftermarket parts. Unless upgrading some internals, I’d not take this motor above 350hp. Plenty OEM sites sell parts at 20% off online.