The Ultimate Guide to Subaru BRZ Parts: Performance, Upgrades, and Maintenance
The Subaru BRZ is a beloved sports coupe known for its performance, handling, and driving enjoyment. As an owner or enthusiast, understanding the parts and upgrades available for your BRZ is crucial for maintaining its performance and enhancing your driving experience. This guide will delve into various components, aftermarket options, and maintenance tips, ensuring you have all the information you need to keep your BRZ at its best.
| Type of Part | Application |
|---|---|
| Performance Intakes | Improve airflow and engine efficiency, leading to better throttle response and power. |
| Exhaust Systems | Enhance exhaust flow, reduce back pressure, and improve engine sound and performance. |
| Suspension Upgrades | Improve handling, stability, and ride comfort, allowing for better cornering and performance on track. |
| Brake Kits | Upgrade stopping power and heat dissipation, ensuring safety during aggressive driving. |
| Wheels and Tires | Enhance grip and aesthetics; lighter wheels improve acceleration and handling. |
| Engine Management | Tuning solutions for optimizing engine performance and fuel efficiency. |
| Body Kits | Improve aerodynamics and aesthetics; can also improve downforce at higher speeds. |
| Interior Accessories | Enhance comfort and usability; options include custom seats, steering wheels, and tech upgrades. |
Performance Intakes: Unlocking Your Engine’s Potential
Performance intakes for the Subaru BRZ are designed to improve airflow to the engine, which can lead to enhanced throttle response and overall power. Brands like MAPerformance and Subimods offer various options, from simple drop-in filters to full cold air intake systems.
Types of Intakes
- Panel Filters: Easy to install; replace the factory filter with a high-flow option.
- Cold Air Intakes: Positioned away from the engine, these intakes draw cooler air, improving performance.
- Short Ram Intakes: These are designed for space-saving and ease of installation, providing a slight performance boost.
Benefits
- Increased horsepower and torque.
- Better fuel efficiency.
- Enhanced engine sound, giving your BRZ a sporty growl.
Exhaust Systems: The Sound of Performance
Upgrading the exhaust system is one of the most popular modifications for BRZ owners. A high-performance exhaust can drastically change the car’s sound and improve power output. Companies like 86speed.com and kamispeed.com provide a range of options from cat-back systems to headers.
Types of Exhausts
- Cat-Back Exhaust Systems: Replace everything from the catalytic converter back, improving flow and sound.
- Axle-Back Exhausts: Focus on the rear section of the exhaust, offering sound enhancement with minimal performance gain.
- Headers: Replace factory manifolds to reduce back pressure and improve exhaust flow significantly.
Benefits
- Improved horsepower and torque.
- Lighter weight compared to stock exhausts.
- Aggressive sound that enhances the driving experience.
Suspension Upgrades: Handling at Its Finest
Suspension upgrades are essential for enhancing your BRZ’s handling capabilities. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable ride or track-ready performance, options are available from retailers like www.86worx.com and www.subaruonlineparts.com.
Types of Suspension Upgrades
- Coilovers: Adjustable height and damping settings for customization based on driving style.
- Sway Bars: Reduce body roll during cornering, improving stability.
- Strut Braces: Increase chassis rigidity, enhancing steering response.
Benefits
- Improved cornering and stability.
- Customizable ride height and handling characteristics.
- Increased driver confidence during spirited driving.
Brake Kits: Stopping Power Matters
For safety and performance, upgrading your brake system is crucial, especially if you plan to drive aggressively. Brands like www.subarupartsdeal.com and www.devilsubaruparts.com offer high-performance brake kits.
Types of Brake Kits
- Big Brake Kits: Larger rotors and calipers for increased stopping power.
- Slotted and Drilled Rotors: Improve heat dissipation and reduce brake fade.
- Performance Brake Pads: Offer better bite and reduced stopping distance.
Benefits
- Enhanced stopping power and reduced fade during high-performance driving.
- Improved pedal feel and response.
- Increased safety on the track and road.
Wheels and Tires: Grip and Aesthetics
Upgrading your wheels and tires can significantly affect your BRZ’s performance and appearance. Lighter wheels improve acceleration and handling, while high-performance tires offer better grip. Options are readily available from www.napaonline.com and www.maperformance.com.
Types of Wheels and Tires
- Lightweight Alloy Wheels: Reduce unsprung weight for improved performance.
- High-Performance Tires: Offer better grip in various conditions, enhancing acceleration and cornering ability.
- Tire Packages: Bundled options that include wheels and tires for convenience.
Benefits
- Improved traction and handling.
- Enhanced aesthetics and customization options.
- Reduced weight for better performance.
Engine Management: Optimize Performance
Tuning your engine can lead to significant gains in horsepower and torque. Companies like www.subaruonlineparts.com and www.kamispeed.com provide various engine management solutions.
Types of Engine Management
- ECU Tuners: Reflash the factory ECU for more aggressive fuel and ignition maps.
- Piggyback Systems: Modify sensor inputs to enhance performance without replacing the factory ECU.
- Standalone ECUs: Complete replacement for full control over engine parameters.
Benefits
- Increased horsepower and torque.
- Improved throttle response and drivability.
- Custom tuning options for specific needs.
Body Kits: Aerodynamics and Style
Body kits can enhance both the aesthetics and aerodynamics of your Subaru BRZ. Retailers like 86speed.com and www.86worx.com provide a variety of options.
Types of Body Kits
- Front Bumpers: Improve airflow and change the car’s appearance.
- Side Skirts: Enhance aerodynamics and lower the car’s stance.
- Rear Diffusers: Improve downforce and stability at higher speeds.
Benefits
- Improved aerodynamics for increased performance.
- Enhanced visual appeal and customization.
- Potential for better handling at high speeds.
Interior Accessories: Comfort and Functionality
Upgrading your interior can improve your driving experience significantly. From custom seats to advanced tech features, options are available from various retailers.
Types of Interior Accessories
- Custom Seats: Improve comfort and support during spirited driving.
- Steering Wheels: Upgraded options for better grip and handling.
- Tech Upgrades: Enhance connectivity and entertainment options.
Benefits
- Improved comfort during long drives.
- Enhanced driving experience with better ergonomics.
- Customization options for personal style.
Technical Features Comparison Table
| Feature | Subimods | 86speed | SubaruPartsDeal | MAPerformance | Devil Subaru Parts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Performance Parts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| OEM Parts | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Customer Support | Email & Phone | Live Chat | Live Chat | Email & Phone | |
| Shipping Options | Expedited | Standard | Expedited | Standard | Standard |
| Installation Guides | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
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Conclusion
The Subaru BRZ is an exceptional sports car that can be further enhanced with various aftermarket parts and upgrades. From performance intakes and exhaust systems to suspension upgrades and brake kits, there are numerous options to elevate your driving experience. Understanding the types of parts available and their applications will help you make informed decisions for your vehicle. Don’t forget the importance of regular maintenance to keep your BRZ running smoothly while enjoying the thrill of driving.
FAQ
What types of performance parts are best for the Subaru BRZ?
Performance intakes, exhaust systems, and suspension upgrades are among the best options to enhance the driving experience and improve power and handling.
Where can I find genuine Subaru BRZ parts?
Genuine parts are available at Subaru parts dealers like SubaruPartsDeal and Devil Subaru Parts. They offer a full range of OEM parts with manufacturer warranties.
Is it worth upgrading the exhaust system on a BRZ?
Yes, upgrading the exhaust system can significantly improve your vehicle’s sound, performance, and efficiency, making it a popular modification among BRZ owners.
How do suspension upgrades improve driving experience?
Suspension upgrades enhance handling, stability, and ride comfort, allowing for better cornering and overall driving performance, especially on the track.
What is the benefit of using lightweight wheels?
Lightweight wheels reduce unsprung weight, improving acceleration, handling, and overall performance, which can enhance the driving experience.
Are aftermarket intakes worth the investment?
Aftermarket intakes can improve airflow to the engine, leading to better throttle response and power, making them a worthwhile investment for performance enthusiasts.
What should I look for in brake upgrades?
When upgrading brakes, consider stopping power, heat dissipation, and compatibility with your driving style. Big brake kits and performance pads are popular options.
Can I install performance parts myself?
Many performance parts can be installed by enthusiasts with basic mechanical skills, though some, like suspension systems and brake kits, may require professional installation.
How often should I perform maintenance on my BRZ?
Regular maintenance should be performed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, typically every 5,000 miles, including oil changes, brake checks, and tire rotations.
What common issues should I be aware of with the BRZ?
Common issues include noisy transmissions, clutch problems, and potential engine troubles. Regular maintenance can help mitigate these problems.