I'm planning on getting a Turbo Timer for my all stock 02 WRX Wagon. I am definitely a newbie when it comes to suby modifications. I did some research and it seems like
Blitz Dual Turbo Timer with WRX Harness will best fit my needs. My two important questions are as follow:

1. Will the installation of the Turbo Timer void the warranty?
2. Will the turbo timer keep my car healthy and well maintained?

As I have mentioned, I did some research and the Blitz Dual Turbo Timer is what I am looking forward to invest upon.

During the research, I came upon sites the explains how to install the turbo timer. To some, the job is easy to do, but for me, I'm not so sure how difficult it is to install it. Only mod work I've done was when I owned a Honda Accord and installed an AEM Cold Air intake into it.

I feel quite eager to learn how to install it and to know whether I could do it or not and how to do it, but I really don't want to screw it up.

Now, how legit are these site instructions that I've found?



Subymods Turbo Timer Installation Guide
which is borrowed from Swankmonkey Guide


Any tips for a newbie like me? That is of course besides telling me to take the job to the professional. BTW option auto salon is a tad more expensive comparing to alamomotorsports for the turbo timer and harness combined.

 

1. Per SOA, yes it will void your warranty.
2. No more than if you didn't have it. The WRX was designed such that the car cools the turbo and oil even after it's stopped. negating the need for the turbo timer or even for running your car for a minute or two after you've been beating on it. I still let the car idle a little if I've been abusing the car, but I try to be nice to it on my way home

It might be a good idea to get one if you have an aftermarket turbo, however you can just wait a minute or two after reaching your destination and get the same result, just with a heavier wallet and an intact warranty.

 

I'd imagine your dealer is the exception then. The dealers in my area would deny you asap for that.

 

really depends on your dealer, soa will void at any chance they get, so i've heard.

but if you got a cool dealer then hey it might just work out.
like stated above, the tt is kind of just a bell/ whistle to have. not really needed. i still want one though.

 

i guess modifying anything besides body works and sound systems will void the warranty

 

Your warranty cannot be unilaterally "voided" due to modifications. The dealer has to be able to prove that the failure in question was caused by something you modified rather than a manufacturing defect- that is the law. However as we know it isn't unusual to be given a hard time when bringing a modded car in for warranty service. The outcome depends on a combination of things including the dealer's attitude and mod-tolerance, the exact nature of the problem and the mods in question, the quality of the mod work, signs of abuse or competitive/non-street use of the car, and (very important) your own attitude.

With all that said, you have to accept the reality that any substantial modifications to the car will make trouble-free warranty coverage less likely. So, proceed with mods only after considering the potential consequences.

As for turbo timers, they are more of a "cool gadget" mod. They aren't really needed.

 

When I bought my '02 WRX, I asked the service manager if there was a need to "cool down" the turbo (based on the experience of others with other turbos) and he said, "No" there was no need. Just drive up and shut it off. I have since done it both ways: a mile or so of easy drive to "cool it", and just shutting off when it was hot as .... and nothing has happened. I then talked to an independent mechanic (whom I respect) and he said the same thing. (Among his collection is an '85 Buick Grand National, which is MINT and a scalded dog when pressed.) So, why risk the warranty? The better mod, IMO, is an improved exhaust: costs more than a timer, but bolts on and does some good with no real warranty issues. Good luck.

 

About voiding the warranty, I'm pretty sure that it will. But just to be safe, call up the dealership and ask. I think a turbo timer is probably a waste of money. If you have been driving around normally, i would worry about the turbo. But if you go on a long drive or have been driving hard, just let it idle for about a minute. It will be fine!