I have a 2005 WRX wagon 5 speed. I am planning on doing an sti swap in the future but funds are low so for now i am doin some minor modds to my 2.0 liter. I have a 3 inch aps exhust sitting in my garage (turbo back, no cat's), i also have a k&n drop in filter already installed. I am getting ready to do a tune but am getting lots of mixed opinons on the boost controller. Should i or should i not get one? Many people say yes definatly get one it will help with power and they are nice to have, but on the other hand people say dont get one there is no need your ecu can do the same thing your boost contoller would, that they are really not necissary til upgrading your tubo. Now before anyone answer this question please take into account that i live in arizona where over the summer it gets up to 100 degrees out side and the air is very dry, I dont want to damage my motor or turbo since this is my only car so would the boost controller still be the way to go or should i just do the tune so my boost is conrtolled a little bit better through my ecu and will change like designed to with atmosphere differences and gas? Thanks.

 

With an 04 and later, you are much better off doing proper engine management vs. just a boost controller as there is a real possibility of damaging your engine. Do some research on the differences in the open/closed loop delay between the 02/03 and later years.

 

GO with a three port boost solenoid and a protune. IA performance or Vivid would be my choice for your area, I have delt with both and both are great to work with.