Hey, I have a 2004 WRX that has around 40000 miles on it. When the car reached about 30000 miles, I started to feel that it does not have the power it used to have when I just purchased the car. When the car is new, I can definitely feel the turbo kicks on. Now I don't feel it anymore. I can hear the turbo spinning, but don't really feel the "kick" any more. So far, I have changed fuel filter, air filter, tranmission fluids (my car is auto transmission). I change synthetic oil every 3000 to 3500 miles. Did a complete fuel system clean up at the dealer ship. The dealer also tested the turbo pressure, and they say it's normal. Is there anything that I can do to improve the car to it's original state (without going into all the after market modifications), or maybe this is just how old car should behave. Does anyone has the similar situations that can share some experience with me? Thanks.
2004 WRX losing power
Feb 07, 2006
4 Replies
Did the dealer use the manifold cleaner? Mine didn't for a long time and my Forester turbo was getting sluggish, finally another mechanic used a can of this cleaner and it was like -WOW!!! The car was as good as new. I don't know what it's called, but it is a Subaru part, and they are supposed to do it each service. Dave
Have you tried resetting the ECU? Disconnect the battery for an hour and then hook it back up.
Sure, it's why I traded up to an STi. In my case, I got used to the power of the WRX and it wasn't anything particularly special anymore when I floored it.
Here's a trick: let someone else drive it, and sit in the passenger seat. Let them accelerate as fast as they're able (without dropping the clutch or anything) and then decide whether it feels as fast as it used to.
The only way to know for sure is to take it to a track and do some 0-60s with it.
A good way to boost power is aftermarket parts. There's lots of them for WRXen.
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