Hello,

New to this forum and next weekend i will need running my car in some Time Trials and I have my stock brakes. I was wondering if i should upgrade before the event? The only thing that i have added to me car is an intake but i am going to get some Z rated tires.

 

You will most likely warp your rotors and/or experience brake fade as your brakes get hotter and hotter. If this is your first time and you are trying it out for the first time, be prepared to invest in brakes afterwards. It might be a good way for you to experience what it feels like, too.

Basic upgrades can include changing the brake fluid to RBF 600 or a higher temp fluid. You can also upgrade the pads and rotors, and lastly the calipers.

good luck

 

I have some cash set aside for new rotors and calipers once im done. I just dont have the time to take off work to get them installed before the event. I wouldn't have though of the brake fluid thanks for the advice!

 

For auto-x you shouldn't need much more than a sport oriented pad to deal with the heat, it's not a full track day, just a low speed parking lot course. The stock pads will be fine for a first time out, don't let that detract you. I don't think there would ever be enough heat on an Autox course to justify expensive rotors. Autozone rotors or centric cheapies are good enough.

For an upgrade in stopping distance & pedal feel, consider a rear upgrade, as the stock bias will always be front heavy in a production vehicle.

H6 sized rotors conversion rear or 2 pots from an 06-07 WRX will both increase rear torque. 4 pots in front will reduce front torque, as they have less piston area. This has the same effect as a rear upgrade, but is usually a little more expensive than a rear upgrade. I went the H6 route years ago and It's a HUGE improvement in feel & stability under heavy braking.

 

Thanks Concillian that does help a lot!! what about the STI rotors and calipers i mean if i going to get new ones won't the STI brakes be better?

 

Calipers, I believe so. At least for the front. Rotors, you probably won't, unless the rotor has the same bolt pattern as you.

 

Something that is slightly better than the stock pads should be fine. I wouldn't be all crazy with the fancy brake conversion/upgrades for autocrossing, there's just not that much time to be had beyond upgrading to better pads.