I have some questions regarding a new TMIC for my 07 Wrx

1. What's a good not too expensive aftermarket brand tmic I can get for my car? I found grimmspeed and turbo xs. Any of those good?

2. Would I need to tune my car if I replaced then TMIC with either a new oem IC or aftermarket IC?

2. What if any benefits/gains can i expect?

 

well, what's the current mods on your car? answers for #2 and #3 depend on that answer. by this time, it's doubtful that a 2007 wrx is completely bone stock, but stranger things have happened.

also, have you thought about using an STi intercooler, or what makes you want to go all the way to an aftermarket TMIC?

 

Currently just a cbe and aftermarket brakes. Had an hks bov but got rid of it. I'm not exactly set on aftermarket TMIC, just asking for opinions. So should I go with 06/07 STI then?

 

Grimspeed is good. I just picked up a Perrin tmic for my 08 for cheap. You won't really need an aftermarket one til you've gone stage 2+ or gotten a bigger turbo. Tune is not necessary but if you want the power gain then you should you can feel the difference with a tune like 5-10hp. Just go with 06/07 STI intercooler bigger better than wrx one.

 

Will the STI intercooler be a direct fit since it's bigger, or do i have to modify something?

 

No you'll have to make a few adjustments and different hoses for the STI intercooler. If that's an issue, I guess just buy an aftermarket one for your wrx, plus it'll give you all the hardwares you'll need.

 

Pretty much this. since you say you don't have a bigger turbo, you probably don't "need" an intercooler upgrade. having said that, if it "fits the budget" then it'd be a nice thing. what are your future power goals? anything firm in mind--because if so, build for that. however, if it's a "i'm just upgrading as i go", then you could opt to do an intercooler upgrade for minimum cost.

aftermarket TMIC might have the tubes/parts needed...be sure you check out which one you're buying. Not sure if the Grimmspeed one (admittedly a nice piece) comes with the conversion tubes, or if you'll need to source the STi y-pipe. I think the Mishimoto TMIC has it, and there's one on sale at rallysportdirect.com right now too...~$510.

But, it you don't mind searching around, i'm sure you can find source an STi intercooler for cheaper. Either find one with the STi y-pipe still attached, or be sure to source the y-pipe out elsewhere as well.

Also, think about the mounting for the larger intercooler. see what you'll need for that. obviously once the dimensions change, the mounting solution usually changes as well.

If you wanna (OEM) big-dog it, look for the GR/VA (2008+) STi intercooler. I put one in my GD STi, and it was a fairly simply install. check out my update to the thread on i-club about GR intercooler in GD.

(self serving notice) i probably could sell my GD STi intercooler, but no y-pipe.

good luck deciding!

 

Thanks aldrin. Cheston I inboxed you