1972nib

Hello there this is my first post on the Forum and was after a few questions about blob eye WRX wagon as I am debating buying my first Subaru.

Firstly what is the prodrive pack that some come with?

Has anyone got an options list for them as Ive seen one with a sunroof and leather so was wondering if there are other factory fitted options?

When buying one is there any specific things to look for?

I know servicing on these cars is important and regular oil changes are good.

I guess its the usual things to check with the engine... no smoke noise banging.

Is there any other hidden expenses with these cars?

Any help is greatly appreciated many thanks !

Happy christmas,

RS_Matt

Prodrive pack afaik is ECU tweak, uprated intercooler hose, de-cat centre section and back box. Gives the car circa 240bhp though Subaru claim 265 ish. Either way, enough grunt to safely leave STI's from the lights.

Look out for the usual noises, if the car shakes on tickover once warmed up it could mean cylinder 3 is gone, make sure the car boosts smoothly with no flat spots and make sure gear changes are smooth.

Persistent issues are shock absorber failure and in my case split CV gaitors. Don't worry about maintenance though as parts are plentiful and cheap for the WRX.

WRXrowdy

iTrader: (2)

I think it's 05 models on that are more prone to knocking rear shocks.
A WRX fitted with leather and sunroof is a model in its own right, being what is called a WRX sl (sunroof + leather, hence the sl)
Pretty reliable, top rad hose can split and radiator can leak as the plastic top on the rad can crack, cam belts every 50k and it is said clutches circa 80k but mine is on 110k original clutch no issues as yet.

RS_Matt

I'm on original clutch too at 82,000, I changed the original Cambelt and tensioners at 81,000 (11 years).

Oil and plugs every 2-3 years as I don't thrash it daily.

kirky1

iTrader: (1)

i used to have a classic uk turbo 2000 which was about 240-250bhp now ive got a blob wrx ppp with a do luck panel filter and its defo quicker somehow

Ste333

iTrader: (3)

Mileage dependent too obviously....
I wouldn't be comfortable leaving the same oil in my WRX engine for 2-3 years, regardless of whether it gets thrashed or not!

Ideally as much service history as can possibly get would be an advantage OP To give you some idea, I change the oil in my daily driven PPP WRX every 5-6k regardless. But people have differing opinions on this and the types of oils used make a difference too.

RS_Matt

I do 5,000 miles a year. I do use Millers 10-50 CFS though.

WRXrowdy

iTrader: (2)

Also, something to bear in mind is that the wagon came with steel lower front wishbones instead of alloy on the saloon. These were subject to a recall on some I believe, so worth checking if the car you are looking at was subject to that.

And try and listen to the engine on start up from cold to listen for nasty noises. If it has been warmed up prior to you arriving might mean the seller is trying to hide something.