For 2015-2017 WRX STI High-flow Cold Air Intake Kit

Fitment

The two VA-chassis cars use different engine platforms and airflow requirements, so confirm your engine code before ordering. If your year, model, or engine is not listed above, message us before you buy.

2015-2017 Subaru WRX STI Cold Air Intake FAQs

Q1: Is this cold air intake legal in my state?

A1: This kit does not carry a CARB Executive Order (EO) number. Not legal for sale or use in California (and other CARB-adopting states). If you live in a CARB-adopting state and need an emissions-legal intake, confirm your local rules before ordering.

Q2: Will this intake fit my 2015–2017 Subaru WRX STI?

A2: Yes — it is an exact fit for the 2015, 2016, and 2017 Subaru WRX STI with the 2.5L EJ257 turbocharged boxer (VA chassis), and it replaces the factory airbox and intake tube as a direct bolt-on. It does not fit the 2015–2017 WRX with the 2.0L FA20DIT, which uses a different engine platform, throttle body, and turbo inlet geometry. If your year, model, or engine is not listed above, message us before ordering.

Q3: How much horsepower and torque will this add? Will it improve fuel economy?

A3: Expected output range is approximately 7–10% more horsepower and 6–8% more torque over the factory intake on the 2.5L EJ257. The change you notice first is usually faster turbo spool, sharper throttle response, and a stronger induction note rather than peak power alone. On fuel economy, MPG is dominated by driving habits — an intake alone will not produce a measurable gain. Actual results depend on the vehicle, ECU calibration, installation, and supporting hardware. For more context, read how much horsepower a cold air intake adds.

Q4: Do I need a tune after installing this intake?

A4: A tune is not strictly required for a basic bolt-on install that keeps the factory MAF sensor in place, but a professional ECU calibration is recommended if you want to get the most out of the intake. On a MAF-based turbo car, a tune also lets the ECU account for the changed airflow more precisely.

Q5: Will this intake throw a check engine light, and what should I check after installing?

A5: A properly installed intake should not trigger a check engine light. When one appears, it is usually caused by a loose clamp, a coupler that is not fully seated, or a MAF sensor reinstalled in the wrong orientation. After the install, walk the whole intake tract: check every clamp and coupler for leaks, confirm the MAF sensor and its connector are fully seated, make sure the assembly is securely mounted, and verify that nothing contacts a moving or hot engine component.

Q6: Is this a MAF or MAP sensor setup?

A6: The 2.5L EJ257 is a MAF-based system, so sensor placement and orientation matter. This kit reuses the factory MAF sensor at its stock mounting position; there is no need to swap in a different sensor or a spacer.

Q7: Will this intake make my WRX STI louder?

A7: Yes — you will notice more turbo spool, more bypass-valve sound, and louder overall induction noise, especially under acceleration. At a steady cruise the difference is smaller. Sound is subjective, so if you want the loudest possible setup, an open-element short ram is the style to compare against.

Q8: Will this intake improve turbo spool and throttle response?

A8: The high-flow tube and cone filter reduce intake restriction, which lets the turbo spool slightly faster and sharpens throttle response — most noticeable in the low and mid-RPM range. This is the change most owners feel first, more than a peak power number.

Q9: Is this a true cold air intake or a short ram intake?

A9: This kit is designed as a heat shield cold air intake. The heat shielding reduces engine-bay heat exposure at the filter compared with an open-element setup, while the intake tube replaces the factory airbox and intake tube. If you are still deciding between intake styles, compare the trade-offs before you order.

Q10: Will this intake cause heat soak?

A10: Some heat soak can occur in traffic or at idle, which is normal for an intake that lives in the engine bay. The heat shield reduces hot-air exposure compared with an open filter setup.

Q11: Can I install this intake myself, and how long does it take?

A11: Yes. Installation is typically straightforward and takes about 45–90 minutes using basic hand tools. No cutting or permanent modification is required.

Q12: Is the air filter washable and reusable?

A12: Yes. The included cone filter is washable and reusable, and regular cleaning keeps airflow up and protects long-term performance. Under normal conditions plan on servicing it roughly every 100,000 miles, and check it more often if you drive in dust. Follow the steps in our cone filter cleaning guide.

Q13: What is included in the box, and what do I still need?

A13: The kit includes the intake assembly: the mandrel-bent aluminum intake tube, the heat shield, the washable cone filter, and the hardware needed for a bolt-on install. The factory MAF sensor is reused, so you do not need to buy a sensor. Basic hand tools are enough for the job.

Q14: Will this intake void my warranty?

A14: Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, an aftermarket part cannot void your factory warranty unless it is proven to have caused the failure. This kit is designed as a direct bolt-on replacement that keeps the factory sensors and connections in place. See our warranty explainer for the details.

Q15: Is this intake safe in rain or deep water?

A15: Normal rain driving is fine. The real risk is deep water: if the filter is submerged it can draw water into the engine and cause hydrolock, which is severe and expensive damage. Avoid deep water crossings, and if you ford water regularly, look at a high-mounted or relocation setup instead.