Matt_STi

Haven't been on here for a very long time, sold my 2005 STI few years ago but looking to get another Subaru. This time I'm looking at the newer WRX STI.

I remember the 2.5 engine had issues on the hawk eye, does the new style Subaru have the same issues does anyone know?

Is there anything I should look out for when viewing one? Other than the obvious.

Thanks

Tidgy

yep, same crappy 2.5

the shreksta

iTrader: (20)

Yes same ****e engine, buy a cheap one out of warranty and have it forged by a reputable specialist and then enjoy it.

Matt_STi

Ok thanks, how much would I be looking to get it forged?

the shreksta

iTrader: (20)

Around 4k-5k but well worth it, the 2.5 is a cracking engine for fast road use when built properly.

Matt_STi

Hmm that's quite a bit considering the car would be expensive too. Obviously long term well worth it, but something to consider.

Is it a general issue or more a issue if you increase the bhp?

the shreksta

iTrader: (20)

It's just a flawed engine mate, it's more a case of when not if. Some people have had 0 issues and some people have had engines fail with less than 10k on them.

If you buy one just have a slush fund ready just incase, the rest of the car is pretty much bomb proof it's just the engine. You may find a rebuild for about 3.5k but remember that cheaper doesn't mean better.

Matt_STi

Glad I asked. May have to think of a different car completely as this will be my car for a very long term.

Shame as I love the new versions. Sadly I'd only have enough for the car but not the extra.

Thank you all

Matt_STi

Would it be possible to buy forged pistons online which would solve it?

I'm fully crap when it comes to engines and any knowledge on it

Tidgy

Will need honing for the change in pistons anyway so just not worth it. If your gonna do it, do it right.

Even with its faults i love the 2.5 as a road engine, when its built right. more usable and nicer to drive than the 2,0 imo as you dont have to rev the **** off it and they don't have anywhere near the lag of the 2.0.

Don Clark

Due to the ever tightening Uk/Euro emission limits the 2.5 has suffered from having to use hypereutectic alloy pistons (low expansion rate) to obtain the reduction in piston skirt to liner clearances required to meet them.
Because of this, ringland failure can occur, if not run in sympathetically, or when higher loads are place on the pistons when power is increased significantly.

Fitting forged pistons can solve this problem but in reality requires the engine to be dismantled to get the correct clearances for forged pistons which have a higher expansion rate and need bigger clearances.
Raising the power /torque can also cause the head bolts to stretch leading to head gasket failure. These should be replaced by ARP or other brand of head studs to improve head to block clamping pressure.

Andycat

Just noticed there is a 64 plate on trader think 25k miles just had £4900 Engine rebuild.....

Matt_STi

Thanks, will look. Haven't got the money quite yet, wanted to do my research first! Hope it's still around

Fishbowlhead

iTrader: (1)

Does anyone know the actual percentage of the 2.5l engines, that are untouched by any modding or power increases, that pop? Be interesting to see the actual percentages.

Tidgy

i;ve heard figures from 30% to 50% mentioned but highly unlikley to ever get an accurate figure. Subaru UK have always denied there is an issue, even though i believe subaru US has now.