What's an Intercooler?

Imagine your car's engine as a powerhouse, but one that can get a little hot under the collar. That's where the intercooler comes in. It's essentially an air cooler that reduces the temperature of hot air coming from the turbocharger before it enters the engine. Cooler air translates to better performance and potentially more power.

Why Upgrade to a Front-Mount Intercooler (FMIC)?

Stock Subaru WRX and STI models use a top-mount intercooler (TMIC). Upgrading to a front-mount intercooler (FMIC) relocates it to the front of the car.

This location can get quite toasty under heavy driving, reducing the intercooler's effectiveness (heat soak).

FMICs solve this problem by relocating the intercooler to the front of the car, where it gets a direct blast of cool air, leading to more efficient cooling.

Benefits of an FMIC:

• Increased horsepower (around 15 hp on average, but results can vary)
• Improved performance, especially during high-performance driving

Things to Consider Before You Buy:

• Cost: FMICs themselves can be expensive, and installation adds to the overall cost (professional vs. DIY).
• Fitment: Make sure the FMIC you choose is compatible with your specific Subaru model year. Engine bay layouts can vary.
• Other Modifications: You might need an aftermarket intake and tuning to ensure everything works together smoothly.
• Power Goals: Consider how much power you're aiming for and choose an FMIC that can handle it. There's no single "best" FMIC; it depends on your needs.

Is an FMIC Right for You?

FMICs are popular upgrades for Subaru WRX and STI owners looking to squeeze more power and performance out of their cars. However, if you're a casual driver who doesn't push your car hard, a TMIC might be sufficient.

Technical Considerations:

• Construction: FMICs come in two main types: tube-and-fin and bar-and-plate. Both have pros and cons, but there's no clear winner in terms of performance. Bar-and-plate is generally considered more resistant to damage. Focus on overall quality over construction type.
• Size: Bigger isn't always better. The ideal size depends on your specific needs and goals. Researching the "best" size for your car involves calculating airflow and potential drawbacks.

Additional Considerations:

• Fitment: Double-check fitment with the seller, especially for 2006-2009 models.
• Hidden Costs: You might need an aftermarket intake and a specific type of blow-off valve (BOV) for optimal performance.
• Installation: Installation can take 5-8 hours and cost anywhere from $100 to $400 depending on the method (DIY vs. professional).

Tuning:

In almost every case, tuning is necessary after installing an FMIC, especially because you might also be adding an aftermarket intake, which can affect air-fuel ratios. Tuning ensures safety and maximizes the performance gains from the FMIC.

FMIC vs. TMIC: The Final Showdown?

There's no definitive answer to which is "better." It depends on your goals and driving style. Weigh the pros and cons of each and choose the one that aligns best with your needs.

The Bottom Line:

FMICs can be a worthwhile upgrade for Subaru owners looking to boost performance. However, careful consideration of cost, fitment, potential modifications, and tuning needs is crucial before making the plunge.

Bonus tips:

• Heat wrapping the return piping of the FMIC can further improve its cooling efficiency.
• Water spray or CO2/NO2 sprayer kits (aftermarket) can provide additional cooling benefits.

By understanding these factors, you can decide if an FMIC upgrade is the right choice to boost your Subaru's performance and unleash its hidden potential.