Table of Contents
The Subaru WRX is renowned for its performance and handling, especially when equipped with built engines pushing over 400 wheel horsepower. However, with great power comes the need for enhanced suspension and braking systems to ensure optimal handling and safety. In this article, we will explore various upgrades that can significantly improve your WRX’s performance.
Importance of Upgrading Suspension and Brakes
When modifying your WRX for higher horsepower, upgrading the suspension and braking systems is essential. These upgrades not only improve handling but also enhance stability and safety. Here are some key reasons to invest in these modifications:
- Improved Handling: Upgraded suspension components provide better grip and cornering capabilities.
- Increased Safety: Enhanced brakes reduce stopping distances, crucial for high-speed driving.
- Better Ride Quality: Quality suspension upgrades can improve comfort and reduce body roll.
Suspension Upgrades
Suspension upgrades for WRX built engines can transform the driving experience. Here are some effective options to consider:
Coilovers
Coilover kits allow for adjustable ride height and damping settings. This flexibility enables drivers to fine-tune their suspension for different driving conditions.
- Benefits: Customizable settings for performance and comfort.
- Popular Brands: BC Racing, KW Suspensions, Fortune Auto.
Sway Bars
Upgrading sway bars helps reduce body roll during cornering, enhancing stability and control. Stiffer sway bars provide a sportier feel and better handling characteristics.
- Benefits: Improved cornering performance and reduced body roll.
- Popular Brands: Whiteline, Eibach, Cusco.
Strut Braces
Strut braces connect the top of the strut towers, increasing chassis rigidity. This upgrade helps maintain alignment during aggressive driving, which is crucial for handling at high speeds.
- Benefits: Enhanced chassis stiffness and improved steering response.
- Popular Brands: Cusco, Perrin, Agency Power.
Braking Upgrades
With increased horsepower, the stock braking system may struggle to provide adequate stopping power. Upgrading your brakes is vital for safety and performance.
Brake Pads
High-performance brake pads offer better heat resistance and stopping power. Upgrading to performance pads can significantly enhance braking performance.
- Benefits: Improved bite and reduced fade during high-performance driving.
- Popular Brands: Hawk Performance, EBC Brakes, Ferodo.
Brake Rotors
Upgrading to larger or slotted/drilled rotors can improve heat dissipation and overall braking performance. This is especially important for high-horsepower applications.
- Benefits: Better cooling and reduced brake fade.
- Popular Brands: DBA, StopTech, Brembo.
Brake Lines
Stainless steel braided brake lines provide better pedal feel and reduce flex compared to stock rubber lines. This upgrade can improve responsiveness and overall braking performance.
- Benefits: Improved pedal feel and consistency under pressure.
- Popular Brands: Goodridge, StopTech, Cusco.
Conclusion
Upgrading the suspension and braking systems of your WRX built engine is essential for handling and safety at 400+ wheel horsepower. With the right components, you can significantly enhance your vehicle’s performance, ensuring a thrilling yet safe driving experience. Invest in quality upgrades to fully enjoy the capabilities of your WRX.