Why the GReddy Performance Kit Is a Game-Changer for your BRZ FA24

The Subaru BRZ (second generation, FA24 engine) is already a driver’s darling, but its 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer leaves some headroom for enthusiasts craving more. The GReddy Performance Kit offers a complete, bolt-on forced induction solution that transforms the car’s personality without breaking the bank. For roughly $2,500 (kit price varies by vendor and current promotions), you get a turbo system engineered to work with the FA24’s direct injection and port injection combination. This article covers everything you need to know—from component specifications to a detailed install sequence—so you can confidently tackle this upgrade in your own garage.

What’s in the GReddy Performance Kit

Rather than piecing together a custom turbo setup, the GReddy kit simplifies the job by providing matched hardware. Here’s a closer look at each major component:

  • High-Performance Turbocharger – The kit typically uses a GReddy T518Z or similar twin-scroll turbo, sized for quick spool and strong mid-range torque. Choose between internally gated (simpler install) or externally gated (better boost control) options depending on your power goals.
  • ECU Tuning Module – GReddy includes their own piggyback or a reflash solution. This module overwrites factory fuel and ignition maps to work with boost. Without it, the engine would run dangerously lean.
  • Upgraded Intercooler – A front-mount or air-to-air intercooler drops intake air temps, increasing density and reducing knock risk. The kit provides all necessary piping and couplers.
  • Exhaust System Enhancements – The kit replaces the restrictive stock exhaust manifold downstream components. Expect a downpipe and a free-flowing cat-back or mid-pipe. Sound levels increase, but remain livable with included resonators.
  • Hardware & Fittings – Oil drain and feed lines, gaskets, bolts, clamps, and vacuum hoses. All items are pre-measured and designed for a direct fit on the BRZ FA24.

One important detail: GReddy sells different versions—some include injectors or fuel pump upgrades, while others assume your stock fuel system can handle the boost (up to about 7–8 psi). Verify your kit’s contents before ordering. For most street setups, the stock FA24 fuel system can handle the extra flow at these boost levels.

Required Tools and Workspace

Before you begin, clear a full weekend and ensure you have the following tools and supplies on hand. Buying the kit is just the start—you’ll need:

  • Socket set (metric, 8–19 mm), including deep sockets
  • Wrenches (combination box-end/open-end), especially 10 and 12 mm
  • Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
  • Torque wrench (range 10–100 ft-lb, or 15–135 Nm)
  • Jack and two jack stands (minimum 3-ton capacity)
  • Trim removal tools (for plastic clips)
  • Rags, penetrating oil (WD-40 or equivalent), and anti-seize compound
  • Shop vacuum for cleaning debris from intake ports
  • Coolant catch pan (you’ll disconnect coolant lines)
  • A helper for lifting heavy intercooler and turbo assemblies

A clean, level concrete floor with good lighting is ideal. If you’re working in a driveway, place plywood under the stands to prevent sinking into hot asphalt. Also, disconnect the battery and wait 15 minutes before starting to allow the ECU’s capacitors to discharge.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

Put the parking brake on. Raise the front of the BRZ using the jack, positioning stands under the front pinch welds. Lower the car onto the stands until stable. Remove the engine undercover (7–8 bolts). Drain the engine oil if you plan to replace it (recommended with fresh synthetic 5W-30 after turbo install). Disconnect the negative battery terminal.

Step 2: Remove Stock Induction and Exhaust

Start with the air intake: unbolt the air box, remove the MAF sensor carefully, and set everything aside. Next, remove the factory exhaust manifold. You’ll need to separate the front pipe connection at the cat. PB Blaster on rusted bolts helps. Keep the bolts and nuts; many are reusable.

Remove the heat shields around the manifold and turbo area. Lower the subframe crossmember (if necessary) to slip the old manifold out. On the FA24, you may also need to disconnect a coolant line to the throttle body for clearance—label and plug it immediately.

Step 3: Install the Turbocharger

Attach the GReddy turbo manifold to the engine block. Torque the manifold nuts to 35 ft-lb in a crisscross pattern. Then mount the turbo itself onto the manifold, using the supplied gasket. Lightly coat the threads with anti-seize. Torque the turbo-to-manifold bolts to 25–30 ft-lb.

Connect the oil feed line from the block to the turbo center housing. Use a new crush washer. The oil drain line goes from the bottom of the turbo to the oil pan (you may need to drill and tap the pan—GReddy includes a template). Triple-check the drain angle; gravity flow is critical.

Coolant lines attach to the turbo for water-cooling. Connect them to the engine’s coolant circuit as per kit instructions. Fill with fresh coolant after all connections are tight.

Step 4: Fit the Intercooler and Piping

Mount the intercooler behind the front bumper. Remove the crash bar if necessary (some kits require trimming). Attach intercooler brackets to the chassis. Slide the intercooler into position and tighten brackets.

Run the charge pipes from the turbo compressor outlet to the throttle body. Use silicone couplers and T-bolt clamps. Ensure no kinks. Reinstall the front bumper cover carefully, checking for interference with the intercooler.

Step 5: Install the Upgraded Exhaust System

Connect GReddy’s downpipe to the turbo, then to the mid-pipe. Use the supplied gasket. Torque the downpipe to turbo bolts to 30 ft-lb. Reattach the O2 sensor(s) to the new downpipe bungs. If your kit includes a cat-back, install it now—it’s straightforward, hangers and clamps.

Step 6: ECU Tuning Module Installation

Locate the ECU (passenger side footwell). Remove the access panel. Follow GReddy’s wiring diagram for the piggyback module—typically it splices into injector, ignition, MAP, and crank position sensor wires. Soldering and heat shrink are strongly recommended over T-taps for reliability. Alternatively, the kit may come with a reflash cable and a pre-loaded tune file. Load the tune using a laptop and a cable (e.g., Tactrix OpenPort 2.0).

If you are using the piggyback, calibrate it according to the instructions, or better yet, visit a dyno tuner for final adjustment. Do not start the engine until the tune is installed.

Step 7: Final Checks and First Start

Double-check every bolt, clamp, and wiring connection. Reinstall the battery. Fill with fresh engine oil (5W-30 full synthetic) and coolant. Prime the oil system by cranking the engine with the fuel pump relay or injector fuse removed for 10–15 seconds. Reinstall fuse, then start the engine. Look for oil leaks, coolant leaks, and unusual noises. Let the engine idle until the coolant gauge reaches normal temperature. Check for boost leaks by spraying soapy water on all charge pipe joints.

Test drive: accelerate gently at first, building boost slowly. Listen for detonation (pinging). If the tune is safe, enjoy your new power. Consider a professional dyno tune for maximum performance and safety.

Expected Performance Gains and Driving Dynamics

The GReddy kit on a stock FA24 typically yields 280–320 wheel horsepower on 91–93 octane pump gas, with corresponding torque around 270–300 lb-ft. That’s a massive improvement over the stock 228 hp at the crank. The torque comes on early (around 3000 rpm) thanks to the twin-scroll design, making the BRZ feel genuinely fast—not just revvy. Throttle response remains sharp, and the sound deepens without becoming obnoxious.

Be prepared for changes in driving behavior: you’ll need to be more attentive with throttle inputs in corners; the added torque can upset the chassis if you’re not smooth. Upgraded tires, brake pads, and possibly a stiffer suspension complement the power increase.

Tuning: The Key to Reliability

Installing the turbo is only half the battle—proper tuning is what keeps your engine alive. The FA24’s compression ratio is around 12.5:1, which is high for forced induction. To avoid detonation, the tune must:

  • Reduce ignition timing under boost
  • Enrich the air-fuel ratio (target around 11.5–12.0:1)
  • Use the knock sensor feedback aggressively

GReddy’s base tune is a safe starting point, but every car and fuel is different. I strongly recommend booking time with a Subaru-specific tuner (dyno or remote e-tuning). Expect to pay $400–$800 for a quality calibration. It’s a worthwhile investment that can prevent blown head gaskets or melted pistons. For links to trusted tuners, see our resources below.

Maintenance and Reliability Considerations

Forced induction means higher temperatures and stress. After the GReddy install, adopt a stricter maintenance schedule:

  • Change oil every 3,000 miles using premium synthetic
  • Use top-tier 93 octane fuel if available; never run E85 without custom tuning for flex fuel
  • Inspect intercooler couplers for boost leaks every 5,000 miles
  • Check turbo shaft play annually (remove intake tube and feel for looseness)
  • Replace spark plugs one grade colder (e.g., NGK LFR7AIX) and gap to 0.025 inch

Many owners report no significant reliability issues as long as they stay within the kit’s intended boost range and adhere to a proper tune. The FA24 block is robust, but the engine’s internals (pistons, rods) are not forged—keep boost below 10 psi for safety. With the $2,500 GReddy kit, you typically won’t exceed 8 psi, which is a sweet spot.

Cost Analysis: Is $2,500 Realistic?

The GReddy Performance Kit itself retails between $2,200 and $2,800 depending on version, injectors, and vendor. Let’s assume $2,500. Additional costs you might encounter:

  • Professional install: $800–$1,200 (if you don’t DIY)
  • Dyno tune: $500
  • New oil and coolant: $60
  • Spark plugs (if needed): $40

If you do the work yourself and only need a remote tune, you can keep the total around $3,000. The $2,500 figure from the article title likely refers to just the kit. Even with added expenses, this is one of the cheapest ways to add 100+ hp to a modern sports car.

External Resources

For further reading, check these authoritative sources:

Final Thoughts

Installing the GReddy Performance Kit on your BRZ FA24 for around $2,500 is an achievable project that will dramatically transform your driving experience. The kit’s quality components, thorough instructions, and respected engineering make it a top choice for enthusiasts. Take your time during installation, invest in a professional tune, and stick to a maintenance plan. The result is a fast, reliable, and exhilarating sports car that punches well above its weight class.