handling improvements

[lucien2]

So how is tirerack able to sell winter wheel/tire sets so well? Seems like that owuld void the warranty too. Heck, by that logic, using a brand of tire that isn't OEM is a deviation... *shrug* just playing devil's advocate.

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[Ghostrider600]

Originally posted by lucien2
So how is tirerack able to sell winter wheel/tire sets so well? Seems like that owuld void the warranty too. Heck, by that logic, using a brand of tire that isn't OEM is a deviation... *shrug* just playing devil's advocate.

Not quite. As far as I understand it, a *comparable* part can be used w/o voiding the warranty.
So, you can use an approved non-Subaru part as long as it is compatible (exactly) with the original.

Ex: you can use a Purolator or Fram oil filter as long as it is the one for the FXT, or a direct-replacement air filter element instead of the OEM, as long as it doesn't otherwise alter the vehicle.

Likewise, you could run some other (recommended) tire that isn't the Geolander, but it should match the tire profile and etc of the stock Geolanders.

Swapping to 17" rims, which are not direct-replacement (even if the rolling diameter is close it's not the 16" from Subaru) could be cause to void a related powertrain warranty.

Where this is really stupid is in cases, like the Forester, where other markets (JDM, EDM) get factory 17" rim & tire packages.

*BUT*, even if you purchased those rims, which are Subaru rims --at least made for their product and approved as original equipment on JDM/EDM Foresters--IF you mount those on your USDM Forester, they bring your car out of compliance with the Original USDM equipment, and thus can void the warranty.

Same thing with parts from the catalog, most say (in very fine print) that they void the warranty and are for "Off Road Use" only.

Now, maybe your dealership won't make an issue of it, but since the warranty payments get sent to SoA, you can bet they'll get out of paying for any repair they think they can default to the owner who modified his vehicle...

[QA Guy]

Originally posted by Ghostrider600
1--STi springs
2--17" rims w/lower profile tires
3--Sti or Cobb sway bars.
4--Strut tower braces
5--Tire pressure (35/34)

PROBLEM: All BUT #4&5 will void the warranty.
I asked everyone at two different dealerships.
All of those mods count as "drivetrain modifications" and void your powertrain warranty.
Bumper-to-Bumper outside of drivetrain, and only if unaffected by your mods (ie no warranty for rubbing etc) is still covered.

So, for me, I'm waiting a bit for the above mods, but I do intend to do them once I'm not so worried about the warranty.

Here is a letter from Subaru:


Thank you for visiting the Subaru Web site again. I hope that you have been enjoying your WRX!!

First and foremost, get that nasty word VOID out of your vocabulary. The ONLY way your warranty from Subaru will be VOIDED is if you take it out of the country.

Now, for the facts. We do not recommend the installation of any aftermarket parts in any of our vehicles. Doing so, will NOT affect your warranty. But, any problems caused would not be covered by your warranty from Subaru.

For example, an air freshener is an aftermarket product. Therefore, we would not recommend that you install one in your WRX. But, it is really not going to cause any problems, so there would be no harm or problems caused.

Finally, this is your WRX. Therefore, you can do as you deem appropriate. But, if the installation of an aftermarket part causes a problem, you would be responsible for paying for the repairs.

If you need further assistance, please feel free to contact us again. Have a great weekend!!

John J. Mergen
Subaru of America, Inc.

------------------------------------------

In addition, the dealer does not make decisions on your car's warranty coverage. Subaru does. The dealer can refuse to work on your car if they aren't mod friendly, but you can always go to another dealer (and avoid giving the first dealer any more of your business).

[Ghostrider600]

Originally posted by QA Guy
Finally, this is your WRX. Therefore, you can do as you deem appropriate. But, if the installation of an aftermarket part causes a problem, you would be responsible for paying for the repairs.

This is what I said before, and again, it's up to "them" to decide what caused the problem.
IF they want to deny you, and you cannot prove it wasn't the mod's fault, then you eat the costs.

Still, the whole tone of the letter you got isn't what I was getting when I spoke to the service managers shortly after (and in some cases before) I got the FXT.

In addition, the dealer does not make decisions on your car's warranty coverage. Subaru does. The dealer can refuse to work on your car if they aren't mod friendly, but you can always go to another dealer (and avoid giving the first dealer any more of your business).
[/b]

Guess the dealers I spoke with weren't mod friendly to say the least. I relayed here in this thread exactly what they told me when I asked about various mods (TT, cat-back, 17s, in that order) and both dealerships used the "VOID" word exclusively.

Think I may print that letter off and take it in to them to see what they say....about my new suspension, rims, and cat-back.

[Peaty]

Originally posted by gumball
I thought the STI Spring swap (Impreza) dropped 3", or are these Forester specific STI Springs, i.e. not off an Impreza?

One inch (about) for the SG Forester STi springs, 3" I think for the USDM Impreza WRX STi springs.

I've installed the SG STi springs on OEM struts, 17" wheels 50 series tires and the USDM STi 20mm rear sway bar and hardware. Total drop about 1.5". I'm very happy with the results. It does not look slammed but still has a firm but tolerable ride. Most everything is detailed on our site. If I can find a set of SG STi adjustable struts for a good price I may do that too but like I said I'm not unhappy with the setup as it is. I don't plan on auto-xing a lot but wanted to get the suspension up to the level of the power. I think it was a mistake to keep the same suspension in the XT as the X and XS. Subaru should at least offer an upgrade as an option.

Like everyone says the best bang for the buck is to just get a better set of tires, even better if you can go up to 17"
Peaty

[bluesubie]

I was about to post the same thing that QA Guy posted from the SoA letter. Yes, SoA will not "void" your warranty outright.

If a dealer told me that a few items would "void my warranty", I would definitely go elsewhere. I'm lucky that I have about 6 or more dealers within 30 minutes.

-Dennis