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The Scion FR-S is known for its lightweight design and agile handling, but many enthusiasts seek to enhance its performance. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by adding a turbo kit. In this article, I will share my personal experience with a $2,500 Stage 2 Turbo Kit and how it transformed my Scion FR-S.
Initial Impressions
Before installing the turbo kit, I was satisfied with the FR-S’s performance, but I knew it had potential for more power. The car was fun to drive, but I often found myself wanting quicker acceleration and a more exhilarating driving experience.
Choosing the Right Turbo Kit
After researching various options, I decided on a Stage 2 Turbo Kit that promised significant power gains without compromising reliability. The kit included:
- Turbocharger
- Intercooler
- Upgraded fuel injectors
- ECU tuning software
- All necessary piping and hardware
This kit was designed specifically for the Scion FR-S, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
Installation Process
The installation process took about a weekend and required some mechanical knowledge. I opted to do it myself with the help of a few friends. The most challenging parts included:
- Removing the stock intake and exhaust components
- Installing the turbocharger and intercooler
- Routing the new piping
With patience and attention to detail, we successfully completed the installation. It was a rewarding experience to see the transformation of my car.
Tuning the ECU
After the physical installation, the next crucial step was tuning the ECU. This process involved using the provided software to adjust fuel maps and boost levels. A proper tune is essential to ensure the engine runs smoothly and safely with the new turbo setup.
Performance Gains
Once everything was installed and tuned, I took my Scion FR-S for a test drive. The difference was astonishing. The power delivery was smooth, and the acceleration was significantly improved. Here are some key performance metrics:
- Horsepower increased from 200 to approximately 300
- Torque improved from 151 lb-ft to around 250 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph time reduced from 6.4 seconds to about 4.5 seconds
The turbo kit truly transformed the driving experience, making the car not only faster but also more enjoyable to drive.
Driving Experience
With the new turbo kit, the Scion FR-S felt like a completely different car. The added power allowed for more aggressive driving, especially in corners. The turbocharger provided a satisfying boost that made overtaking on highways effortless.
Fuel Efficiency Considerations
One concern many have when adding a turbo is the impact on fuel efficiency. Surprisingly, I found that my fuel economy did not suffer as much as I anticipated. While driving conservatively, I could still achieve decent mileage. However, spirited driving did lead to higher fuel consumption, which is expected.
Reliability and Maintenance
After several months of driving with the turbo kit, I can confidently say that the reliability has been excellent. I have kept up with regular maintenance and made sure to use high-quality oil and fuel. Some maintenance tips include:
- Regular oil changes with synthetic oil
- Monitoring boost levels and engine temperatures
- Checking for any leaks in the turbo system
Staying proactive with maintenance has allowed me to enjoy the performance gains without worrying about potential issues.
Conclusion
The $2,500 Stage 2 Turbo Kit has completely transformed my Scion FR-S into a powerful, exhilarating machine. The installation process was challenging yet rewarding, and the performance gains exceeded my expectations. If you are considering a turbo upgrade for your FR-S, I highly recommend it, but remember to prioritize proper installation and tuning for the best results.