FA24DIT Buyer's Guide: Essential Upgrades, Reliability Mods & Most Wanted Parts for Your 2022+ WRX
The FA24DIT represents a new chapter for the Subaru WRX—more displacement, more torque, and a platform built for enthusiasts who want to push the limits. Whether you're focused on long-term reliability, chasing power gains, or building the complete package, this guide covers everything you need to know about upgrading your 2022+ WRX the right way.
Understanding the FA24DIT: What Makes the 2022+ WRX Engine Special
When Subaru introduced the 2022 WRX, they didn't just refresh the styling—they replaced the heart of the car. The FA24DIT is a 2.4-liter turbocharged direct-injected boxer engine that addresses many of the limitations enthusiasts experienced with the previous FA20DIT. For anyone considering modifications, understanding what makes this engine tick is the first step toward building it right.
The Evolution from FA20DIT to FA24DIT
The jump from 2.0 liters to 2.4 liters might not sound dramatic on paper, but the real-world difference is immediately noticeable behind the wheel. That extra 400cc of displacement translates to significantly more torque, especially in the low and mid-range where you actually use it during daily driving and spirited pulls.
Key improvements in the FA24DIT include:
Increased displacement (2,387cc vs. 1,998cc) — More air and fuel means more power potential without straining the engine
Stronger connecting rods and pistons — Subaru beefed up the rotating assembly to handle increased loads
Improved torque curve — Peak torque arrives earlier and stays flatter across the RPM range
Refined turbocharger — Better spool characteristics with reduced lag compared to the FA20DIT
Updated direct injection system — Higher fuel pressure capability supports performance modifications
Factory Power and What It Means for Modders
From the factory, the FA24DIT produces 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque—modest numbers that don't tell the whole story. Subaru tuned this engine conservatively, leaving significant headroom for enthusiasts who want more. The combination of larger displacement, stronger internals, and an efficient turbo system means the FA24DIT responds exceptionally well to bolt-on modifications and proper tuning.
Unlike some platforms where you quickly hit the limits of factory components, the FA24DIT's foundation supports meaningful power gains without immediately requiring internal engine work. This makes it an attractive platform for enthusiasts who want to build progressively—starting with intake, exhaust, and intercooler upgrades before considering more aggressive modifications down the road.
What the FA24DIT Does Better Than Its Predecessor
Owners who've driven both the VA WRX (FA20DIT) and the VB WRX (FA24DIT) consistently notice several improvements:
Torque delivery — The FA24DIT pulls harder from lower RPMs, making it feel more responsive in everyday driving situations
Reduced rev-hang — Throttle response between shifts is noticeably improved
Heat management — The larger displacement engine doesn't work as hard to make equivalent power, running cooler under load
Tuning headroom — The stronger rotating assembly and higher-pressure fuel system provide a more robust starting point for modifications
Pro Tip
The FA24DIT shares its basic architecture with the engine found in the Subaru Ascent and Legacy XT, meaning Subaru designed it for durability and longevity from the start. This isn't a fragile, highly-strung performance engine—it's a robust platform that happens to respond very well to modifications.
Why Enthusiasts Are Excited About This Platform
The FA24DIT represents a maturation of Subaru's turbocharged boxer formula. It combines the engaging driving dynamics WRX owners expect with improved reliability characteristics and genuine tuning potential. Companies like COBB Tuning have developed comprehensive support for the platform, offering off-the-shelf maps and custom tuning solutions that unlock the engine's potential while maintaining reliability.
Perhaps most importantly, the FA24DIT rewards a thoughtful, balanced approach to modifications. Rather than requiring aggressive changes to make meaningful power, this engine delivers impressive gains from quality bolt-ons paired with proper calibration. That means you can build your VB WRX progressively, enjoying each stage of the journey while keeping the car reliable and streetable.
Reliability First: Protecting Your FA24DIT Investment
The best-built WRX is one that stays on the road—not on a lift waiting for repairs. While the FA24DIT is a more robust platform than its predecessor, any turbocharged direct-injected engine benefits from proactive upgrades that address common weak points. Before chasing big power numbers, smart builders focus on reliability modifications that protect their investment for the long haul.
Oil System Upgrades: The Foundation of Engine Health
Turbocharged boxer engines are particularly sensitive to oil quality and management. The FA24DIT's turbocharger relies on engine oil for both lubrication and cooling, making a healthy oil system critical for longevity. Additionally, the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system can allow oil vapor to enter the intake tract, which creates problems over time.
Air/Oil Separators and Catch Cans
An air/oil separator (AOS) or catch can is one of the most important reliability upgrades for any turbocharged Subaru. These devices intercept oil vapor before it can enter your intake system, preventing:
Carbon buildup on intake valves — Direct injection engines don't have fuel washing over the valves, so oil vapor bakes onto them over time
Reduced octane rating — Oil in the combustion chamber effectively lowers your fuel's knock resistance
Intercooler contamination — Oil coating your intercooler reduces its cooling efficiency
For the FA24DIT, an AOS or quality catch can setup should be considered a must-have modification, especially if you plan to add power. This is one upgrade where spending more upfront saves significant money and headaches down the road.
Oil Coolers
While the FA24DIT manages heat better than the FA20DIT, sustained high-load driving—track days, spirited canyon runs, or summer commutes in traffic—can push oil temperatures beyond optimal ranges. An oil cooler maintains consistent oil viscosity and prevents thermal breakdown, which is especially important if you're running a performance tune that increases boost and combustion temperatures.
Warning
Oil that consistently exceeds 250°F begins to break down and lose its protective properties. If you track your WRX or live in a hot climate, monitoring oil temperature and adding cooling capacity should be a priority.
Cooling System Enhancements
Heat is the enemy of performance and reliability. The FA24DIT's turbocharged setup generates significant heat, and managing that heat is crucial for consistent power delivery and long-term engine health.
Intercooler Upgrades
The factory top-mount intercooler on the 2022+ WRX is adequate for stock power levels, but it quickly becomes a limiting factor when you add modifications. Heat soak—where the intercooler can't dissipate heat fast enough—causes intake air temperatures to climb, which leads to:
Reduced power — The ECU pulls timing to protect the engine from knock
Inconsistent performance — Your car feels strong on the first pull but falls off on subsequent runs
Increased stress on engine components — Higher intake temps mean higher combustion temps
Upgrading to a larger, more efficient intercooler maintains lower intake air temperatures even during aggressive driving. This is one of the most impactful reliability-meets-performance upgrades you can make to the FA24DIT platform.
Engine Management and Monitoring
Knowledge is power—and protection. Understanding what's happening inside your engine in real-time allows you to catch problems before they become catastrophic and ensure your tune is performing as expected.
COBB AccessPORT
The COBB AccessPORT is the gold standard for FA24DIT engine management. Beyond enabling performance tunes, it serves as a powerful monitoring and diagnostic tool:
Real-time data monitoring — Watch boost, AFR, knock, and dozens of other parameters
Datalogging — Record driving sessions to review later or send to your tuner
Trouble code reading — Diagnose check engine lights without a trip to the dealer
Multiple map slots — Switch between tunes for different fuel grades or conditions
Gauges and Monitoring
Dedicated gauges for boost pressure, oil temperature, and oil pressure provide at-a-glance information while driving. Many enthusiasts mount a multi-gauge setup or use the AccessPORT's gauge mode to keep critical data visible at all times.
Pro Tip
Get in the habit of datalogging regularly, even if everything feels fine. Reviewing logs helps you spot trends—like gradually increasing knock counts or rising oil temps—before they become serious issues. Your tuner will also appreciate having quality logs if you ever need remote support.
Addressing Direct Injection Carbon Buildup
All direct-injected engines share a common challenge: without fuel spraying over the intake valves, carbon deposits accumulate over time. The FA24DIT is no exception. While an AOS significantly reduces this issue by keeping oil vapor out of the intake, some carbon buildup is inevitable.
Preventive strategies include:
Installing an AOS or catch can — The single most effective prevention method
Using quality fuel — Top-tier gasoline contains detergents that help reduce deposits
Regular spirited driving — Higher RPM operation and elevated exhaust gas temperatures help burn off some deposits
Periodic walnut blasting — Professional cleaning service that removes accumulated carbon (typically needed every 60,000-80,000 miles)
Maintenance Intervals for Modified FA24DIT Engines
Once you start modifying your WRX, factory maintenance intervals may no longer be adequate. Modified engines work harder and deserve more attention:
Service Item
Stock Interval
Modified Interval
Engine Oil & Filter
6,000 miles
3,000-4,000 miles
Spark Plugs
60,000 miles
30,000-40,000 miles (or sooner with increased boost)
Transmission Fluid (MT)
60,000 miles
30,000 miles (more frequent if tracked)
Differential Fluid
60,000 miles
30,000 miles
Coolant
120,000 miles
60,000 miles
Note
Always use high-quality fluids that meet or exceed Subaru's specifications. For modified engines, consider premium synthetic oils designed for turbocharged applications. The cost difference is minimal compared to the protection they provide.
Power & Performance: Most Wanted FA24DIT Upgrades
The FA24DIT's conservative factory tune leaves significant power on the table—and that's great news for enthusiasts. With the right combination of bolt-on modifications and proper calibration, the 2022+ WRX responds with impressive gains that transform the driving experience. Here's how to unlock your FA24DIT's potential while keeping it reliable and streetable.
Intake Systems: Feeding the Beast
The factory airbox on the 2022+ WRX is reasonably efficient, but it's designed with noise reduction and cost as primary considerations—not maximum airflow. Upgrading your intake system allows the turbocharger to breathe more freely, reducing restrictions and improving throttle response.
Cold Air Intakes
A quality cold air intake replaces the factory airbox and intake tube with a higher-flowing design that draws cooler, denser air into the engine. Benefits include:
Increased airflow — Less restriction means the turbo doesn't work as hard to pull air
Improved throttle response — The engine reacts more immediately to your right foot
Enhanced turbo sounds — You'll hear more of that satisfying induction noise
Modest power gains — Typically 5-15 WHP when paired with a tune
When selecting an intake for the FA24DIT, look for systems with enclosed airbox designs or heat shields that prevent the filter from ingesting hot engine bay air. A "cold" air intake that actually pulls hot air defeats the purpose entirely.
Warning
Any intake modification on the FA24DIT requires a proper tune. The factory ECU calibration is designed around specific airflow characteristics, and changing those characteristics without recalibrating will result in poor performance and potentially harmful air/fuel ratios.
Charge Pipes
The factory charge pipe (the tube connecting your intercooler to the throttle body) is made of plastic and features a somewhat restrictive design. Upgrading to an aluminum or silicone charge pipe provides:
Better boost holding — More secure connections reduce the chance of boost leaks
Increased durability — Metal construction withstands higher boost pressures and heat cycles
Exhaust Upgrades: Letting It Breathe
What goes in must come out. A free-flowing exhaust system reduces backpressure, allowing exhaust gases to exit more efficiently. This improves turbo spool, increases power, and—let's be honest—sounds a whole lot better than stock.
Catback Exhaust Systems
A catback exhaust replaces everything from the catalytic converter back to the tailpipe. This is the most popular exhaust upgrade because it offers meaningful improvements without affecting emissions equipment:
Increased diameter — Typically 3 inches versus the factory's smaller piping
Mandrel-bent tubing — Smooth bends maintain consistent diameter throughout
Performance mufflers — Reduced restriction while managing sound levels
Power gains — Expect 5-15 WHP depending on the system and tune
Catback systems come in various configurations—from quiet, resonated setups ideal for daily drivers to aggressive, straight-through designs for maximum sound and flow. Consider your tolerance for drone and your neighbors' patience when selecting.
Axle-Back Exhaust Systems
If you want improved sound without the full investment of a catback, an axle-back exhaust replaces just the muffler section. Power gains are minimal, but it's an affordable way to give your WRX a more aggressive voice while retaining the factory midpipe.
Downpipe Considerations
The downpipe—the section connecting the turbocharger to the rest of the exhaust—is where the biggest flow restriction exists on the FA24DIT. Upgrading to a higher-flowing downpipe with a high-flow catalytic converter yields the largest exhaust-related power gains, typically 15-30 WHP with supporting modifications and a tune.
Note
Downpipe upgrades require a tune and may have emissions implications depending on your location. Always verify that any exhaust component you purchase is compliant with your local regulations. SubiMods offers CARB-compliant options where available.
Intercooler Upgrades: Keeping Your Cool
We touched on intercoolers in the reliability section, but they deserve attention here too—because a quality intercooler is both a reliability upgrade and a performance upgrade. Cooler intake air is denser, which means more oxygen for combustion and more power.
The factory top-mount intercooler heat soaks quickly, especially in warm weather or during repeated pulls. Upgrading to a larger, more efficient unit provides:
Lower intake air temperatures (IATs) — Often 30-50°F cooler under load
Consistent performance — Your third pull feels like your first pull
Safer tuning — Lower IATs allow more aggressive timing without knock risk
Power gains — Indirectly, through better IATs and more aggressive tuning potential
Top-mount intercoolers maintain the factory location and hood scoop functionality, making them popular for the WRX platform. Look for units with larger cores, efficient end tank designs, and quality construction.
Engine Management and Tuning: The Essential Upgrade
Here's the truth that every FA24DIT owner needs to understand: bolt-on parts without a tune are a waste of money—or worse, a risk to your engine. The factory ECU calibration is precisely matched to stock components. Change those components without recalibrating, and you're leaving power on the table at best, and risking engine damage at worst.
Why Tuning is Mandatory
Modern turbocharged engines like the FA24DIT use sophisticated engine management systems that constantly adjust fueling, timing, and boost based on sensor inputs. When you install a less restrictive intake or exhaust, the ECU sees unexpected data and often responds by pulling timing or adding fuel to stay safe—negating your modifications.
A proper tune recalibrates the ECU to:
Optimize air/fuel ratios — Ensure safe, consistent fueling across all conditions
Adjust timing maps — Extract maximum power without risking knock
Manage boost targets — Take advantage of reduced restrictions with appropriate boost levels
The COBB AccessPORT is the most popular tuning solution for the FA24DIT, offering both off-the-shelf (OTS) maps and the ability to load custom tunes from professional tuners. OTS maps are pre-calibrated for common modification combinations:
Stage 1 — Stock hardware with optimized calibration
Stage 1+ — Intake upgrades
Stage 2 — Intake and catback exhaust
Stage 2+ — Full bolt-ons including downpipe
OTS maps are a great starting point, but for maximum performance and safety, a custom protune or e-tune from a qualified Subaru tuner is highly recommended. Custom tunes account for your specific combination of parts, your local climate and altitude, and your fuel quality.
Pro Tip
Plan your modifications with tuning in mind from the start. Rather than installing parts one at a time and retuning repeatedly, map out your target build and install everything together before getting your final tune. This approach saves money on multiple tuning sessions and ensures all your parts work together optimally.
Supporting Modifications for Higher Power Goals
As you push the FA24DIT beyond basic bolt-ons, supporting modifications become necessary to ensure reliability and drivability. Here's what to consider as power levels increase:
Fuel System Upgrades
The factory fuel system is adequate for moderate power increases, but higher boost levels and aggressive tunes demand more fuel delivery. Upgrades include:
High-flow fuel injectors — Increased capacity to support higher power levels
Upgraded fuel pumps — Ensure consistent fuel pressure under high demand
Flex fuel kits — Allow running E85 or ethanol blends for significant power gains
Flex fuel (E85) is particularly popular on the FA24DIT platform because ethanol's higher octane rating and cooling properties allow for more aggressive timing and boost. With a flex fuel kit and proper tune, gains of 40-60+ WHP over a comparable gasoline tune are common.
Clutch and Drivetrain
The factory clutch on manual transmission WRXs is designed for stock power levels. Once you exceed approximately 300 lb-ft of torque, clutch slip becomes a concern. Upgraded clutch options range from mild (slightly increased holding capacity with stock-like feel) to aggressive (high-capacity multi-puck designs for serious power).
Other drivetrain considerations for higher power builds include:
Short throw shifters — Improved shift feel and reduced throw distance
Transmission mounts — Reduced drivetrain movement for crisper shifts
Differential upgrades — Better power distribution and handling at the limit
Realistic Power Expectations
Understanding what's achievable helps you set realistic goals and budget appropriately. Here's what to expect from common FA24DIT modification stages:
Build Stage
Typical Modifications
Expected Power (WHP)
Stock
Factory configuration
~230-240 WHP
Stage 1
AccessPORT tune only
~250-260 WHP
Stage 1+
Intake + tune
~260-275 WHP
Stage 2
Intake + catback + intercooler + tune
~280-300 WHP
Stage 2+ (91 octane)
Full bolt-ons + downpipe + tune
~300-320 WHP
Stage 2+ (E85)
Full bolt-ons + flex fuel + tune
~340-380 WHP
Note
Dyno numbers vary significantly based on the dyno type, weather conditions, tuner skill, and supporting modifications. These figures represent typical ranges and should be used for general planning rather than exact expectations. Always prioritize a safe, reliable tune over chasing specific numbers.
Complete the Build: Suspension, Wheels & Exterior Styling
Power modifications grab the headlines, but a truly well-rounded build addresses how your WRX handles, stops, and looks. The 2022+ WRX's chassis is capable and composed from the factory, but purposeful upgrades to suspension, wheels, and exterior styling transform it from a competent sport sedan into something that reflects your personal vision and driving goals.
Suspension Upgrades: Dialing In the Dynamics
The factory suspension on the 2022+ WRX strikes a balance between daily comfort and spirited driving capability. For enthusiasts who want sharper handling, reduced body roll, and a more connected feel, the aftermarket offers solutions ranging from simple bolt-ons to complete suspension overhauls.
Lowering Springs
Lowering springs are the most accessible suspension upgrade, replacing your factory springs while retaining the OEM struts. Benefits include:
Lower center of gravity — Typically 0.75" to 1.5" drop improves handling dynamics
Reduced body roll — Stiffer spring rates keep the car flatter through corners
Improved aesthetics — Eliminates the factory "wheel gap" for a more aggressive stance
Budget-friendly — Significant improvement without coilover pricing
When selecting lowering springs, consider your priorities. Progressive-rate springs offer a comfortable daily driver experience with improved handling, while linear-rate springs provide more predictable performance characteristics for spirited driving. Keep in mind that lowering springs increase the workload on your factory struts, potentially reducing their lifespan.
Coilover Systems
For maximum adjustability and performance, coilovers replace both the springs and struts with a fully integrated, adjustable system. Quality coilovers offer:
Ride height adjustment — Dial in your exact preferred stance
Damping adjustment — Tune compression and rebound for your driving style
Spring rate options — Select rates appropriate for street, canyon, or track use
Improved valving — Better-controlled body movements than OEM struts
Coilover pricing ranges dramatically based on quality and features. Entry-level coilovers offer height adjustment and fixed damping, while premium options provide 32-way or more damping adjustability, inverted monotube designs, and separate reservoirs for track use. Match your coilover selection to your actual use case—a dedicated track car has different needs than a daily driver that occasionally sees a back road.
Pro Tip
Don't slam your WRX on the lowest coilover setting and call it done. Proper suspension setup involves corner balancing, alignment optimization, and damping adjustment based on actual driving feedback. A professional alignment after any suspension modification is essential—and consider a performance alignment with more aggressive camber and toe settings if your driving includes regular spirited use.
Sway Bars and End Links
Factory sway bars (anti-roll bars) are designed to minimize body roll while maintaining comfort. Upgraded sway bars—particularly rear sway bars—alter the car's handling balance and reduce body roll further:
Rear sway bar upgrades — Reduce understeer, sharpen turn-in, flatten the car through corners
Front sway bar upgrades — Increase front grip utilization, reduce understeer in some setups
Adjustable end links — Eliminate binding and allow proper sway bar preload adjustment
Sway bar tuning is about balance. A significantly stiffer rear bar without corresponding front changes will shift the car's handling toward oversteer—which some drivers prefer, but it requires skill to manage safely. Start with modest upgrades and adjust based on actual driving experience.
Chassis Bracing
The 2022+ WRX uses a stiffer chassis than previous generations, but additional bracing further improves rigidity and feedback:
Strut tower braces — Connect the front strut towers for improved steering response
Rear subframe braces — Reduce flex in the rear suspension mounting points
Lower tie bars — Stiffen the lower chassis for more predictable handling
Chassis bracing benefits are most noticeable during aggressive driving and track use. For casual street driving, the improvements may be subtle, but enthusiasts who push their cars appreciate the increased precision and feedback.
Wheels and Tires: Where Performance Meets the Pavement
No single upgrade impacts both performance and appearance as dramatically as wheels and tires. The right combination improves grip, reduces unsprung weight, and completely transforms your WRX's visual presence.
Wheel Sizing Considerations
The 2022+ WRX comes with 17" or 18" wheels depending on trim level. Aftermarket options typically range from 17" to 19":
Wheel Size
Advantages
Considerations
17"
More tire sidewall, better ride quality, lighter weight options, less expensive tires
May look small in the wheel wells, limited aggressive styling options
18"
Balanced performance and comfort, wide tire selection, popular fitment
Sweet spot for most builds, excellent variety of wheel designs
Reduced sidewall, harsher ride, heavier wheels, more expensive tires
Popular wheel widths for the 2022+ WRX range from 8.5" to 9.5", with offsets typically between +35 and +45. Wider wheels allow for wider tires and a more aggressive stance, but require careful attention to fitment to avoid rubbing on suspension components or fender liners.
Wheel Weight Matters
Unsprung weight—the weight of components not supported by the suspension—directly affects how quickly your suspension can respond to road imperfections and how easily your engine can accelerate and decelerate the wheels. Lighter wheels provide:
Improved acceleration — Less rotational mass to spin up
Better braking — Less momentum to overcome when stopping
Sharper handling — Suspension responds more quickly to inputs
Improved ride quality — Wheels follow road surfaces more precisely
Flow-formed and forged wheels offer significant weight savings over traditional cast wheels, though at higher price points. For a performance-focused build, investing in quality lightweight wheels pays dividends across every driving metric.
Tire Selection
Your tires are the only connection between your car and the road—no other component has as much impact on grip, handling, and safety. Tire selection should match your primary use case:
High-performance all-seasons — Year-round capability with reasonable dry grip, ideal for daily drivers in moderate climates
Summer performance tires — Maximum dry and wet grip for warm-weather driving, require winter tire swap in cold climates
Extreme performance summer tires — Track-capable grip for serious enthusiasts, may wear quickly on the street
Dedicated winter tires — Essential for cold-climate WRX owners, dramatically outperform all-seasons in snow and ice
Don't cheap out on tires. A $3,000 suspension setup on budget tires will be outperformed by a stock suspension on quality rubber. Tires are a consumable—budget for regular replacement and choose the best you can afford for your driving style.
Note
The WRX's all-wheel-drive system requires all four tires to have matching circumferences. When replacing tires, always replace all four, or ensure any new tires are shaved to match the remaining tread depth of your existing tires. Mismatched tire sizes can damage the center differential.
Brake Upgrades: Stopping Power to Match Your Go
As you add power and drive more aggressively, your factory brakes work harder. Upgrading your braking system ensures you can scrub speed confidently and consistently, whether on a mountain road or at a track day.
Brake Pads
The easiest brake upgrade is a set of performance brake pads. Aftermarket pads offer different friction characteristics than OEM:
Street performance pads — Improved bite and fade resistance with minimal dust and noise, ideal for spirited street driving
Track/street pads — Higher temperature tolerance for occasional track use, may be noisy when cold
Dedicated track pads — Maximum performance at high temperatures, require heat to work properly and aren't suitable for street use
Brake Rotors
Upgraded rotors complement performance pads by improving heat dissipation and providing a fresh, true surface:
Slotted rotors — Slots help evacuate gas and debris, maintain pad bite
Drilled rotors — Additional cooling but potentially prone to cracking under hard use
Slotted and drilled — Combination approach, popular for street performance
Factory rubber brake lines expand slightly under pressure, creating a spongy pedal feel. Stainless steel braided lines eliminate this expansion, providing a firmer pedal and more precise brake modulation. This is an affordable upgrade that improves brake feel noticeably.
Big Brake Kits
For serious track use or heavily modified builds, big brake kits replace the entire front (and sometimes rear) brake assembly with larger rotors, multi-piston calipers, and performance pads. Benefits include dramatically improved heat capacity, shorter stopping distances, and better fade resistance—but the cost is significant and overkill for most street-focused builds.
Exterior Styling: Making It Yours
The 2022+ WRX's polarizing styling has inspired a thriving aftermarket of exterior modifications. Whether you want to embrace the new design language, soften its controversial elements, or create something entirely unique, options abound.
Front Lip and Splitters
A front lip or splitter attaches to the lower edge of the front bumper, adding visual aggression and, in some cases, functional aerodynamic benefit:
Improved aesthetics — Lowers the visual height of the front end, creates a more aggressive stance
Aerodynamic function — Quality splitters reduce front-end lift at speed
Ground clearance consideration — Lips and splitters are vulnerable to speed bumps and steep driveways
Side Skirts
Side skirts extend the visual line created by front lips and rear spats, creating a cohesive lowered appearance. They also help manage airflow along the sides of the vehicle on functional aerodynamic setups.
Rear Diffusers and Spats
The rear of the 2022+ WRX benefits from diffuser elements and rear spats that complement front-end modifications. These pieces complete the aggressive look and can provide genuine aerodynamic benefit on well-designed setups.
Spoilers and Wings
From subtle lip spoilers to aggressive GT-style wings, rear aerodynamic elements are among the most popular exterior modifications:
Lip spoilers — Subtle addition to the trunk edge, mild downforce and visual enhancement
Duckbill spoilers — More aggressive than lip spoilers, distinctive look popular in the Subaru community
GT wings — Maximum downforce and visual impact, functional for track use at speed
Lighting Upgrades
Lighting modifications improve both visibility and appearance. Popular upgrades include:
LED bulb upgrades — Brighter, whiter light output from existing housings
Fog light upgrades
Final Thoughts: Building Your 2022+ WRX the Right Way
The 2022+ WRX represents a new chapter for Subaru's iconic sport sedan. The FA24DIT engine offers a stronger foundation than its predecessor, with more displacement, improved torque delivery, and architecture that responds well to modifications. Whether you're chasing modest gains with bolt-ons or building toward serious power, the platform rewards thoughtful, well-planned upgrades.
Here's what to remember as you build your VB WRX:
Key Takeaways
Tuning is mandatory — The FA24 is sensitive to airflow changes. Any intake or exhaust modification beyond axle-back systems requires a proper tune to run safely and make the power you're paying for.
Start with AccessPORT — Your Cobb AccessPORT is the foundation of any power build. It enables off-the-shelf maps for basic modifications and unlocks professional tuning as your build grows.
Build in stages — Don't throw every part at your car at once. Start with intake and tune, add exhaust, then progress to EBCS and flex fuel as your goals evolve. Each stage lets you enjoy the car while planning the next step.
Supporting mods matter — Fuel system upgrades, proper cooling, and quality fluids aren't glamorous, but they're what keep high-powered builds reliable.
Don't neglect the rest of the car — Suspension, wheels, tires, and brakes transform how your WRX drives. Power without chassis balance isn't performance—it's just speed in a straight line.
Work with quality tuners — Whether you're running off-the-shelf maps or getting a custom protune, the calibration on your ECU determines how safe, responsive, and powerful your car is. Don't cheap out on tuning.
Realistic Expectations by Build Level
Build Level
Typical Modifications
Expected Output
Stock
Factory configuration
~271 WHP / ~280 WTQ
Stage 1
AccessPORT + OTS tune
~290-300 WHP / ~310-320 WTQ
Stage 1+
Intake + tune
~300-315 WHP / ~320-340 WTQ
Stage 2
Intake + J-pipe + tune
~330-350 WHP / ~350-380 WTQ
Stage 2 Flex
Stage 2 + flex fuel kit + E60
~360-390 WHP / ~380-420 WTQ
Note: Power figures vary based on tuner, fuel quality, elevation, dyno type, and supporting modifications. These ranges represent typical results from quality builds with professional tuning.
Your Next Steps
Ready to start building? Here's how to move forward:
Define your goals — What do you want from your WRX? Daily driver with a bit more punch? Weekend track weapon? Knowing your end goal helps you buy the right parts the first time.
Set a realistic budget — Include tuning costs, installation if needed, and supporting modifications. A $400 intake becomes a $900 investment once you add the tune.
Start with the AccessPORT — Even if you're not ready for hardware yet, the AccessPORT lets you run a Stage 1 tune and start monitoring your engine's health.
Browse our 2022+ WRX collection — We've curated the best parts from trusted brands, all verified to fit your VB platform.
Reach out with questions — Our team lives and breathes Subaru performance. If you're unsure about fitment, build order, or what's right for your goals, we're here to help.
Pro Tip
Document your build. Keep records of every part installed, every tune revision, and your maintenance schedule. If you ever need warranty support, sell the car, or troubleshoot an issue, having a complete build history is invaluable.
The 2022+ WRX is a capable platform that rewards owners who build it correctly. Take your time, do it right, and you'll have a car that's fast, reliable, and unmistakably yours. Welcome to the community—we'll see you out there.
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