WRX Street/Strip Suspension Setup
Here's a list of suspension components that will help your Subaru WRX handle like a true sports car (or race car). You'll first want to have a good idea of what type of driving/racing you plan to do before you start buying parts and modifying things - this way you don't waste money on the wrong parts or the wrong setup. This list is geared more towards the folks who want a sporty suspension for street driving and maybe some occasional track events.
Tires
Upgrading to high performance or competition tires is the single, most effective modification you can do to improve the handling of your car. Many people find that going with a larger size wheel/tire combination will make the car more responsive and fun to drive. You also want to go with a tire that is right for you. If you're not planning on driving the car in wet or snow conditions, a set up maximum performance tires is preferred. However, some people might need to sacrifice a little performance for wet traction and tread life.
Swaybars
Larger swaybars will help reduce roll in the turns without decreasing ride quality. Shop for Swaybars
End Links
The factory plastic End Links on the rear swaybar tend to give in the turns, making the effects of a larger swaybar less effective. It's a good idea to replace these with stronger units to further improve handling. Shop for End Links
Strut Braces
Strut bars will help reduce overall body flex and will tighten up the car's chassis. Shop for Strut Bars
Springs
Stiffen up the supsension and lower the center of gravity with performance springs. Lowering springs are meant ot give a more sporty feel but will often result in a stiff ride. Shop for Springs
Shock Absorbers
Further tune the suspension with high performance adjustable shocks. Keep in mind that aftermarket shocks will improve handling but will not give you the adjustability of a full coilover suspension. Shop for Shocks
Brake Upgrades
In most cases, simply upgrading your brake pads can have a noticable difference on brake distances and pedal feel in hard driving situations. You might also consider upgrading your factory brake lines to stainless steel versions and swapping out the factory rotors for slotted or cross drilled upgrades. Shop for Rotors
A few things to keep in mind:
Set a goal/budget before buying any parts. No plan = more money later.
Be realistic with those goals and plans. What will your car be used for?
There is no "best" part when it comes to modding.
Do your research before you buy parts - make sure the parts you buy will work together well.
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Tires
Swaybars
End Links
Strut Braces
Springs
Shock Absorbers
Brake Upgrades
