I've read a rumor that Subaru is now making a special oil filter specifically made for the WRX turbo. I was just wondering if it were true and, if it is, if anyone knows where I could get my hands on one. Thanks guys.

 

It's not a rumor. It's a fact. You can pick it up @ any local dealer. The part number is 15208AA080.

 

The following is a quote from page 8 of the August 2003 Subaru Tech T.I.P.S. newsletter that SOA sends to all Subaru service departments


ALL TURBO MODEL OIL FILTERS

Be advised that the correct oil filter to use on 2003MY/2004MY turbo model vehicles is P/N 15208AA080. This includes the 2004 WRX STi. Naturally aspirated vehicles should use P/N 15208AA024/15208AC060. Using the wrong oil filter on a turbo model may put the filter too close to the turbo down pipe and possibly cause an unnecessary heating of the oil filter.

found on

http://www.scoobymods.com/forums/pri...&threadid=2119

 

I don't think it'll hurt. If it came with the car when you got it from the dealership then its a factory part and the don't usually put parts on the car if its gonna hurt it, ya know.

 

As the bulletin states " unecessary heating of the oil filter" I would say you will be ok to finish out your current oil change and then get the proper filter.
Shawn

 

My 04 WRX wgn came with the correct filter and I just went and asked for a 04 wrx oil filter and they game me the right one.
Why am I saying this..... I dont know..

 

It seemed like a good idea at the time? You're trying to get your post count up high enough to rate an avatar?

Why did I reply? Well, it seemed like a good idea.

 

What a crock, the oil filter isn't near the downpipe! Also how would a different filter in the same location get heated any less?

 

Looks close to me. Here is a pic of an STi with the proper filter installed and the larger one next to it: