ok... so after my girlfriend and I have driven the new WRX for a few weeks, I have some questions...

first off... what should we know about break-in? We've been pretty good about staying under 4k rpms for the first 500 miles, now were past that mark, i know the manual says 1000 miles.... what is the general concencus for turbo subies?

Also... this is the first turbo car i have driven, also the first AWD car I have driven. I really wanted to feel what it was like to "go through the gears" so to speak. I tried to keep it under 5k, and it was hard, it almost got away from me, and I didnt even come close to the full potential of the car. I guess I didn't really know what I was getting into, and it took my kind of by surprise. I guess I just need to get used to it, but are there any tips you guys can offer? This is definately the fastest car I have ever driven, and I really want to learn how to drive it to its full potential, without being stupid.

so, thats about it. this car is amazing fast to me... i know to some people its childs play, but its so much fun. I got to drive hwy 9 and 17 the other day for the first time in it, definately a blast.

as always, any input/tips/etc is greatly appreciated.

 

Just keep driving it. Get used to its characteristics.

Learn how to double clutch and heel toe.

After 1k change the oil I use mobil 1 10w30 synthetic.


Just have fun with it.

Unfortunately I won't be able to make it tomorrow so I won't be able to see your ride. Next week for sure. People that go to pho tomorrow are very friendly and helpful. They will chime you in tomorrow if you go.

 

Unfortunately, i dont think we will be able to make it out tomorrow night either... possible, but unlikely. too much going on right now, were trying to get ready to move, and other stuff going on with life.

Anyway, back to topic... speaking of clutch... breaking in a new clutch is HELL... lol... both of us keep stalling it and it sucks... its not like we dont know how to drive, its just so touchy.

Also, I need to go read up on double-clutching and heel-toe technique. I've heard the terms alot and have a vague idea of what they mean, but never really understood how to do it... in fact, if anyone can link me to a good write up on these techniques, that would be great. I'm sure I can find them on my own, but if someone beats me too it thats cool.

I have heard about the 1k oil change... We'll definately do that.

thanks. oh and if not tomorrow, definately one of the next few mondays, hope to see you there.

 

^ Youtube and google.

Double Clutching
- When you are downshifting
- Press clutch put it in nuetral release clutch
- Rev match (brining up the rpms to match the lower gear), Press clutch and put it in the gear release clutch. Should become very smooth.

Basically pressing the clutch twice = double clutching.

Heel Toe
- Basically having your foot on the brake while you rev match. Hitting the gas with the heel of your foot while the top part of your foot is braking.


You can combine the two. Sounds tricky but just practice.

 

I didn't use synthetic in my engine until ~10K miles and my car uses zero oil with 105K miles on the clock.

Other random bits of advice:
Make sure the car is fully warmed up before getting into boost - this is several minutes AFTER the temperature needle reads normal.

Be as smooth as possible with the gear changes. It takes practice, but it is well worth matching the revs to the appropriate level for your gear selection and road speed.
http://www.spdusa.com/shifting.htm
http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=587096

Keep the tires rotated, as it will increase the life of your center differential.

Get in the habit of checking your oil when you fill up the gas tank.

Don't get too overconfident with the AWD. It will not help you stop or turn in slippery conditions.

Get a Fumotovalve for oil changes. Best $20 you'll spend on your car!

Have fun!

 

the nasioc forum says you only need to double clutch on 2-1 downshifts on 02'-04' Subaru's. why so much to a kid with an 08'. to me heel toe down shifting is a natural driving progression. if your new to performance driving heel toe will be the last thing on your mind.

EB Turbo

 

I agree. Best to just learn the car first and get used to where everything engages, what rpms and speed go with each gear before starting heel toe.