What's needed for a 6-Speed swap in a GR WRX (2008 - 2014)
Flatirons Tuning Tech Tip - What's needed for a 6-Speed swap in a GR WRX (2008 - 2014)
We have helped a few people put an STI 6-Speed transmission into the newer GR WRX (2008 - 2014), and we recently just had to put on in our 2014 WRX Pikes Peak Race car.
We get enough questions about how exactly that works, and what you need, we decided to put out a video going over it in detail.
In this video:
00:00 - Intro to the GR (2008 - 2014) WRX 6-speed swap
01:21 - What clutch do I need for the GR WRX 6-speed swap?
02:10 - What axles do I need for the GR WRX 6-speed swap?
02:40 - How are axles related to which hubs and knuckles you need for the swap?
03:20 - What driveshaft do you need for the GR WRX 6-speed swap?
03:42 - What rear differential do you need for the GR WRX 6-speed swap?
04:48 - What rear axles do you need if you use an R180 differential?
05:45 - The R180 differential uses different mounts than the R160
06:03 - What transmission mount do you need for the STI 6-speed?
06:17 - What Shifter linkage do you need for the STI 6-speed?
06:42 - What parts from the WRX can you keep with the swap?
07:02 - Does the shift linkage change between body styles?
07:24 - Do you need a DCCD controller when you do the STI 6-speed swap?
We now have links to swap kits on our web-site for all of the GR cars.
2008 - 2010 Narrow Body WRX:
www.flatironstuning.com/flati...
2011 -2014 Wide Body WRX:
www.flatironstuning.com/flati...
Thanks for watching, and please leave a message or give us a call if you have any other questions.
www.flatironstuning.com
303.402.5142
flatirons-tuning@flatironsimports.com
The best thing to do is basically buy a fully totaled and crashed STI and then just swap everything to a WRX to get the full package
This was more helpful then stupid forums online
dam man.....thats a lot of work. Great info and awesome car. I think i will be sticking to upgraded gears in my 5 speed though after seeing this lol.
Thanks for the comment Adam! I'll say that it isn't that bad, and you have to compare the cost of upgraded gears and installation to a 6MT swap. Dollar for dollar, the 6MT swap is most likely going to be the best option if you are making enough power where the 5MT stops being reliable (roughly 350 wtq and up). And for what it is worth, the fact that you get a front TBD in the 6-Speed is pretty significant too. That front diff makes a lot of difference in the handling characteristics of the car. Good luck with your project!
Awesome video!
Thanks Aaron!
Great content! extremely helpful! Just to confirm, I can pair any 6 speed that has a 3.9 final drive and 1/1 transfer ratio to my r160 with a 3.9 final drive. for example the TY856WB1AA
Hello Sam. Thanks for your question. Yes, as long as your transmission works with your rear diff R&P ratio, it doesn't matter if it is an R160 or R180. I'd recommend looking at the 6-Speed swap FAQ that we put together as well: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
thanks for the reply! What model number transmission did you use for this wrx?
We use the 2007 STI transmission for our swaps.
awesome!
Thanks!
So in the video you stated that i can use a automatic wrx drive shaft..but from what year exactly? And you never mentioned that we could use an sti drive shaft..so is that still an option?And can i use a 6 speed from any year? Video was really good by the way.happy that i don’t have to do a lot of extra work that’s not necessary.thanks for the info!
Thanks for your question. It would be the same range as the WRX, 2008 - 2014 automatic Impreza. I'd also recommend looking at our FAQ video, as that would be helpful for you too. Here is a link to that: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html I hope that helps, and Stay Tuned!
Hey Flatirion tuning I have a 2010 impreza 5MT and have and would like to swap it for a wrx 5MT because the 4th gear is longer. is this in the realm of possibility?
13 wrx. We are doing a 13 sti transmission and suspension swap. Can we use the stock sti dccd unit, sensors and harnesses? We have the whole (wrecked) sti parts car. Thanks for all the videos
Thanks for your question. The short answer is yes, since you have the whole car, but I wouldn't recommend it. The factory DCCD system is tied into the CAN bus, so it is connected to the ABS, VDC, steering angle sensor, etc. All of them have to be connected for the system to work properly. If you can move the entire wiring harness over, and all of the sensors and switches to get all of those systems to work, then yes, you can get the factory DCCD control to work. In our experience, it is far, far easier to just wire in the MAP DCCD standalone system. Not only is it significantly less wiring, it also gives you control over the DCCD behavior, and I'd argue that it works better than the factory DCCD controller on track, etc. We do stock those: www.flatironstuning.com/map-dccd-center-differential-controller And it maybe worth taking a look at this video that we did on the system: kzhead.info/sun/aKiMc7uhnneYgps/bejne.html Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
nice video...I have a 15 cvt 92k love the car...ill keep her for a lomg sime all stock....when I need to replace the cvt im guessing 150 200k I want to do a manual....do I need to change engine balancing like a lot of old American stuff had to or can I just deal with clutch and pedal, trans control diffs and so on???or is it more complex than that??? I am nice to the car and only drive it on the street-commute
Thanks for your question. If you are starting with a CVT transmission, there is a significant amount of work involved to convert to a manual transmission. If you can do all the work yourself, and pulling the dash to swap the pedal boxes, etc., is something that you feel comfortable with, then it can be done. I will say that on these newer cars, the wiring poses a more significant issue because of how connected all of the systems are in the CAN bus. For most people, we would recommend at least starting with a manual transmission car, but it is up to you. Best of luck, glad that you found our channel and Stay Tuned!
Hope you're still responding... was wondering about wiring? What sensors/wiring would be needed to make this swap work? Thanks
Mechanically, there is no wiring needed to get the transmission installed and working. If you want the DCCD to work, you would need to wire in a controller. The one we used is the MAP controller and it is relatively simple. You need to tap into power, brake, speed, engine rpm and throttle position. Speed and RPM are a little more tricky on the newer cars, as they come off the cluster, not the ECU, but it isn't too bad. Good luck, and let us know if you have any other questions!
Super helpful information. I have a 2013 wrx, if I swap the rear diff too, are there any years from 2008-2021 transmissions that WONT work? I’m looking at a 2018 trans right now for a decent deal
Thanks for your question. I'd recommend going through our FAQ as we cover that there: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.htmlsi=sVo9M7ShArkqeEgh Hope that helps and good luck with the swap. Stay Tuned!
So currently i have a 2010 impreza 2.0 and im tired with this slow engine so i was planning on purchasing a 2012 WRX half-cut and swapping its engine into mines and keeping my automatic tranny to swap out the old manual transmission from the WRX. And NO, buying a used/new WRX is not an option for me. The half-cut includes everything (intercooler, fuel pump, turbo, ECU and etc). Im planning to do this in a mechanic shop so it will be done by a professional. So is it possible for me to do this ?
So correct me if im wrong but if i wanted an r180 in my 2009 wrx with also keeping the stock 5 speed with the 3.9 fd i could use a pre 2006 r180 that has the 3.9 fd and sti axles and it would swap right in?
Thanks for your question. If you are specifically looking at the rear differential, yes, you could put in an R180 as long as it matched the transmission that you were pairing it with. I'd recommend looking over our FAQ video because we go pretty in depth about rear differential ratios there. Here is a link: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Thanks for watching!
Do you have a parts list for the trans mount and the bracket for the R180? I am putting an 05 STI trans and diff into my 12. Seems there are a couple other 12s doing the same thing. Also to clarify with the R180 diff I can just use the STI cv axles in my 2012 rear hubs?
Hello Brandon. We can certainly get those for you. If you can e-mail us the specific parts you are looking for, we can get a quote for you. Our best e-mail is flatirons-tuning@flatironsimports.com As for the axles with an R180 differential, yes that is correct. you just need the R180 diff, forward carrier, and STI axles. You don't have to change your rear hubs. Thanks for watching, and let us know if you need anything else!
Hey FlatIorns tuning , i watched the vid 3 times and im happy to see and hear that the 6mt swap is easier than we thought but im still having mental doubts i have a 2010 wrx (narrowbody) 5mt and making a bit of power about 320whp its kinda pushing it so very intrested in figureing out what i need to get this done asap so i can upgrade my turbo. So my question to u is . all i need is an STI- tranny, rear diff, front and rear axels .. Great vid BTW HUGE thumbs UP
Thanks for your question Omer. With the narrow body cars, the only issue really is the length of the axles if you want to run the R180. If you stick with an R160, then you would just use the WRX axles, and it is simple. If you want the R180, your best bet is to use the Driveshaft Shop axles that are made for the conversion on the narrow body cars. I hope that helps, and good luck luck with the swap. Let us know if you need anything!
O Rad have you completed the swap I’m starting to do the same on my narrowbody blew up third gear
I know this is an old video, but just confirming, I can use a 2004 STI trans with my stock axles and r160 on my 2009 wrx. I would then need clutch, driveshaft, clutch slave, starter, shift linkage, knob, trans mount, and flywheel. Is the flywheel for 2004 or 2009?
Thanks for your question. I think you basically have it. Definitely take a look at our FAQ video here: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
Question.when go looking for the proper drive shaft to fit..which year should we look it up under and would it be an sti one?and the same thing for the rear sti axles
Thanks for your question. I'd recommend going through our FAQ video as well, as we go through the differential options, as well as the differential flange options there in more detail. Here is a link to that: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Generally speaking though, an STI driveshaft is easiest if you are using the R180 differential, and an Impreza automatic driveshaft is easiest if you are staying with an R160. Hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
So if I get a 6 speed transmission that’s from a 14 Impreza sti would the stock rear axle work if I’m putting it in an 08 Impreza. The rear axle thing confused me in this video. Thanks for the info!
Thanks for your question. Take a look at our FAQ video. We go into specific detail about the rear diff ratios. Here is a link to the video at that point: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
Must ask. I plan to do an sti motor and tranny swap into my 08 outback sport, which I believe uses the R160 3.90? Will I be able to use this rear differential with the 6MT?
Thanks for your question. Put simply, as long as the final drive, and transfer ratio of the STI 6MT and your rear diff match, you should be fine. Just make sure to double and triple check that they match, because if they don't, your center diff will take the brunt of the damage very quickly.
Hey Flatironstuning. If i were to sti swap my 2012 wrx hatchback with an 08-14 transmission would the wrx front drive axles still snap in or would i need completly new axles and hubs? I know that the axles work with the 07 transmission that you have your swap based on.
Sure, we cover axles at 2:10 in the video. Here is a link to that time stamp: kzhead.info/sun/ds2ed72thnyHnWw/bejne.html Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
looking to do the 6 speed conversion to my 14 Hatchback WRX. Would a 2021 STI transmission and matching r180 diff work as a good swap in this chassis? I have a 6speed transmission and a complete rear subframe off of a crashed 2021 STI and am looking to swap as many parts that came with as possible. Not sure if you'll reply to such a late comment but I appreciate all your help and knowledge!
Thanks for your question. Take a look at our page on the site with "Everything you need to know about a 6-speed swap" Beyond the information in this video, we link to our other videos, and answer other questions there as well. That should be all the information you need: www.flatironstuning.com/sti-6-speed-swaps-everything-you-need-to-know Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Hi great video. Can I swap a 2018 WRX 6 speed for my 2014 WRX hatch?
Yes, but there is some metal cutting required. Not as easy as an 08-14 sti tranny swap
Can I use Impreza Hatch axles of the same year instead of WRX ones? If I'm not going after power?
I have an 09 wrx. So a 2004 STi 6 speed should be basically plug and play? I could keep my R160 rear diff? I already have a cusco rear lsd I wish to keep. Im really only interested in the 6 speed because I have a rebuit forged internal engine, but I dont want to upgrade my turbo to an fp blue or green until my transmission is either ppg or sti 6 speed. Plus I want a front torsen/helical lsd.
Thanks for watching. I'd recommend taking a look at our 6-Speed FAQ video too as we talk more there about swapping a 6-speed into a narrow-body WRX. But the short answer is that yes, the early 6-speeds that use a 3.9:1 rear diff ratio would work with your stock R160. kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Hope that helps, and Stay Tuned!
Aloha Flatorns tuning. I have a question hopefully you guys see this, so I have a 13 Subie Hatch Shell smash front end and with still the wire harness dashboard hubs and I think axels gotta check but I just purchased a 08 Subie sedan to replace the front end and just swapping everything over to the STI shell, will everything fit like the transmission axel and rear diff will it bolt right on or do I have to do some cutting because one is a hatch and the other is a sedan?! And will a STI wire harness fit on a 08 complete swap?! Just trying to find ways so I don’t have to pull the whole dashboard and wiring out and put the other one in. Plz lmk thanks
Thanks for your question. Yes, everything should move right over, and no, you should have to cut any of the body up. Subaru doesn't change their floor pan's very often, so they are very swapable :-) Thanks for watching, and Stay Tuned!
Awesome info on this swap. I have a question i have a 2011 wrx and just got a wrecker 2013 sti trans and diff are still in good condition. Can i use this as my swap will this be my best route to go ? i figured trans and diff are already a match from the same car so should be good to go ?
Thanks for your question. The short answer is sure! As long as the transmission and diff match, there really isn't much difference in installing them into your car after that. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
I have a 2010 WRX narrow body and was looking into swapping the 6 speed. My question, because I have heard of conflicting reports of this; Does the exhaust system at all need to be modified or replaced for narrow bodies? fyi I also have the COBB downpipe installed on my car. Thank you!
Thanks for your question. There are no changes to to the exhaust needed to do this swap. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
I want to do the "EASY" swap on my 02 wrx. I already put and ej207 in
Sounds good! Hope this video helps, and thanks for watching. Stay Tuned!
question, you don't need to replace the slave and master cylinder, correct? I was having a discussion with one of the tuner shops here regarding 6speed swap on my car and they told me those are required.
Nope. The Slave cylinder does need to be replaced, because on the GR has a push style clutch, and the STI is a pull style. But you can keep your master cylinder. Thanks for the question!
Flatirons Tuning, would it be possible to swap out the DCCD controlled center diff to a viscous type like on the 5 speed gr WRX? I don't have any particular usage for the DCCD and enjoy maintaining an OEM look throughout the car. I know one DCCD aftermarket manufacturer allows for the use of the gr dccd controller but then I have an Si knob that I can't use on my WRX, that's why I was thinking of swapping center diffs.
Thanks for the question Jay. It can be done, but it isn't that cheap as you would have to swap out the center diff and transfer gears. It worst, you could just not connect anything to the center diff, and then it would be at full rear bias. You could also look for a Legacy Spec-B 6 Speed (or some of the JDM STI Forester/Legacy transmissions) as they had a viscus center diff rather than the DCCD. But they also had an open front diff. That paired with the viscus center will limit the benefits of the Spec-B transmission over an STI transmission. But that being said, there is a lot of functionality that you gain by having the center diff active, and a controller like the MAP DCCD will give you full access to all that potential. Keep in mind, you can mount it wherever you like. A common place is in the center cubby behind the parking brake. That way the center diff would work, and the controller would be out of site. I hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
I found out the Spec B's also have a taller gearing than even the WRX 5 speed. To me that would be good because I do enjoy my roadtrips. My WRX isn't really raced, more of a fun daily that I want to improve the reliability of. The performance of the STi is great but I have never noticed a need for it with the driving that I do. However, the Spec. Bs are a pita to find due to the very limited usage. I just wished I could steal that gearing even though its a .707 6th gear vs. the WRX .738. I'm honestly not sure how much of a difference .03 could make but from the looks just going to a 6 speed helps speed the power out a bit better. For the Map DCCD, how effective would it be to set in automatic mode and leave it be? As I said, I highly doubt I will ever use it but, I do enjoy a even split between front and rear power on my WRX. Also with my WRX having active torque vectoring with the braking system, I'm assuming that would still function normally because it would be based off the tone rings? Thanks for the help and all your information does help greatly, I just ended up forming more questions about different things.
@@jbc5877 The Spec-B Gears are taler, but it is a small difference. As to the diff's in the STI trans, a good portion of the STI's handling comes down to the front diff and DCCD. Having felt the difference, I would be hesitant to go to the trouble of replacing them or removing them. As for the MAP DCCD, you can certainly leave it in auto mode and it will work well. The harder you drive, the more difference you will notice. That being said, it can also store 4 pre-set maps. For those to work, you need 4 inputs. Vehicle speed, rpm, brake, and throttle position. If you set that up, you will notice a bigger difference than you will being simply in Auto mode. The 4 that come pre-set are 4 tarmac maps. But you can also load on dirt maps, maps for slick conditions, ice, etc. There are 10 to chose from from MAP DCCD. From the cars that we have put this controller in and helped to install, those custom maps will give you a huge amount of tune-ability, and the car will perform about as well as the STI does in auto more, and in some cases, better because of the ability to select a map for a desired behavior or surface. Here is the video that we did on that: kzhead.info/sun/aKiMc7uhnneYgps/bejne.html Hope that helps, and let me know if you have any other questions.
Hello! Quick easy question. 2012wrx ower, would i need to swap the slave cylinder since I'd be swapping clutch and transmission or can i keep the wrx slave cylinder? Hope your still responsive thanks :>
Thanks for your question. Yes, because the slave cylinder on your WRX transmission is for a "push" style clutch and the STI transmission uses a "pull" style clutch, the slave cylinders, and the way they attach to the transmission are not interchangeable. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Hey flatirons tuning! Quick question. I had a 6speed put into my 09 wrx. I have an r160 rear diff i need in and was wondering will my stock axles and hubs work with it?
Thanks for your question. Yes, if you are using an R160 diff, then your stock axles will snap right in. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the quick response!
Flatlorns does the 2008 wrx still accept the STI axles in the rear , i thought i onl heard you mention 11-14 and 17-18 maybe?
Thanks for your question. The issue with the 2008 - 2010 WRX is that you have the narrow body so shorter axles. If you put in STI axles, they can bind up. The best solution that we have found are the Driveshaft Shop Conversion axles. They use different joints so they have more range than the stock axles. www.flatironstuning.com/driveshaft-shop-direct-fit-axles-800hp-08-12-wrx-w-r180-differential-conversion I hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
Question doing the swap have 13 hatch getting everything I need from at 2010 Sti hatch I’m getting trans diff drive shaft axles front and back brace and the slave cylinder and master cylinder is there anything I missing or do I have everything I need right there beside the dccd controller
Thanks for your question. Go back through this video, and then our FAQ video too. Here is a link to that: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html We do now offer a 6-speed swap consult on our site. If you still have questions after going through both of those videos you still have questions, I'd recommend setting that up. www.flatironstuning.com/6-speed-consultation Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Would this process be the same if instead of a standard 6 speed I installed a sequential 6 speed gearbox?
Yes. Provided you are using a sequential that fits inside an STI trans. Some of they have a different shift mechanism that sits on the side of the transmission. That would be the largest difference potentially. Hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
Hey Flaturons Tuning, you guys make great and helpful vids. I have 2 Questions. first: i have a complete 05 6speed swap to put on my 2011 wrx wide body sedan, tans, r180, Driveshaft, clutch, axles and so on, will the 05 oem sti shift asembly fit my body stile? Second: do you guys work the iwire turbo to dccd wire harness? If you do, do you ship to Puerto Rico?
Thank you for your question. Since you have a GR, the GD shifter will not fit correctly in your car. You could try it first, but it will be pretty off. Most likely you will need the GR shifter assembly and yes, we can get that for you. We also stock the iWire DCCD adapter. If you can e-mail us the list of parts that you need, we can see what the best method will be to get everything to you. With any luck we can ship with USPS. Please e-mail that to: flatirons-tuning@flatironsimports.com Thanks, and thank you for watching!
@@FlatironsTuning got another question for you guys. Being a GR body style, the rear axle has to be GR body or any STI rear axle will fit? My r180 is from a 2005 model, got those rear axles to... Btw. found the iwire Turbo to Dccd controler adapter in your page, will order it some time in this week, thanks for all the help... 👍🏼
@@Jowrell The GD axles should be too short, but check them against the WRX axles that you take out. As for the R180, they all have the same fitment from GD to GR. Hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
Hello flatirons tunning I have a question ! I in the Process of swapping my 2011 wrx with a 2013 6speed and 09 r180 I know my rear hubs will work for the sti axles but when I look up for sti axles I get Different part numbers for sedan and the hatch! Is that correct ? Do you have a part number that works ? Awesome video btw thank you so much!
Thanks for your question. I checked and the STI rear axle is the same going back to 2008. I suspect that you are just looking at an older part number that has been superseded by a new one. They should all go to the same part number. Here they are on our site: www.flatironstuning.com/subaru-oem-axles-rear-pair-11-sti Hope that helps, and Stay Tuned!
Hopefully I can get some insight. Completed a version 8 6 speed swap into my 2010 wrx with R180. So far everything is holding up great, however, I am currently hearing a creaking noise when turning at speeds above 10mph. Any ideas what the issue can be?
Well I have discovered my issue and it is the sti front axles binding as a turn. They are slightly longer as I have the narrowbody wrx. 1 solution I can think of would be having the axles shortened?
From what I’ve read about narrow bodies is you can use stock front axles but need hybrid rear axles
Would I be able to use the GR r160 paired with a 2004 sti trans into my 2004 wagon? Would the rear axles be the same?
Thanks for your question. Yes, that would work. Keep in mind the 08-14 WRX rear diff is open, so it is not ideal paired with the DCCD and TBD front diff, but it would definitely work. Hope that helps, and Stay Tuned!
Can you use a 11-14 GR sti drive shaft with 11-14 sti trans and rear diff or do you still need an automatic drive shaft?
Thanks for your question. You only need an automatic drive shaft if you are going to stick with an R160 differential. If you are using an R180, then the STI driveshaft will bolt right up.
idk if you guy still pay attention to this what about the wiring for reverse sensor cruise and etc back up and neutral safety do they just plug in or do u need to splice in ?
Hello Reginald. Thanks for your question. The sensors are actually the same between the 5MT and 6MT, so you can either move everything over, or you can move the wiring harness from the 5MT onto the 6MT. Also, iWire now makes an adapter harness for the 6-speed swap, that will do this for you as well. Here is a link to that on our site: www.flatironstuning.com/p-3751-iwire-turbo-to-dccd-transmission-adapter.aspx Good luck with your swap!
How do you tell if you have an r180 be r160 rear diff. Is there markings on it? Btw I’ve got a Australian spec 07 Liberty GT spec B 6mt.
I would recommend you look up your transmission code in this sheet, and it will have all of the specs for you: www.rallispec.com/downloads/Transmission%20ID%20Chart_Public.pdf If I am looking correctly, your 07 Spec B should have an R180 differential with a torsen diff. Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
Does this work for the GR STI 6-speed as well or just the 2007 STI 6-speed. Example: Can I use the same procedure to put a 2013 STI 6-speed into a 2013 WRX?
Thanks for your question. The short answer is yet. Basically, the process for installing an STI 6-Speed is the same regardless of the year (up to 2018 so far). You just have to make sure that the transmission you are using works with everything else that you are pairing it with. I'd also recommend looking at our FAQ video here: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
Hi! I have a 2004 wrx with the AT. I'm looking to swap to a 6 speed STI trans & retain as much of my stock parts as possible. Which years transmissions are compatible with the auto axles & driveshaft, & which rear diff would work best for my build? Are the 2004 auto axles male or female? Still doing my research before i dive in. Thanks
Thanks for the questions. If memory serves, all auto transmission have stubs in the front diff, so any STI transmission would work, you would just need the 02 - 03 install kit that comes with new stub axles. As far as your rear diff, I believe that you have a 4.11:1 final drive, and there is no STI transmission that has that, so you would need to source a differential to match the requirements of the STI transmission you get. You might want to see if you can find an 02 - 05 MT WRX rear diff, as that works with a lot of STI transmissions. The good news is that since you have an automatic, your driveshaft will work with the 6MT and R160 rear diff. The hardest thing is going to be swapping out your pedal box to add the clutch. Good luck with the swap!
hey flatirons tuning! I recently put a 6 speed in my 09 WRX. it needed an alignment after that it pulls to the right when I'm on the gas. when I'm not on the gas it goes straight. could the 6 speed be causing the the pull to the right?
Thanks for the question. it shouldn't. There shouldn't be any torque steer issues with the Subaru AWD system. I'd recommend looking at the alignment specs, or your bushings to see if anything is lose/moving. Beyond that, keep an eye on your tires for unusual wear that would indicate which corner the issue is on. I hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
FlatironsTuning I appreciate the response. ill keep you updated when I find out and find a solution
I’m swapping a 04 STI trans to an WRX 2012. the wrx diff mount fits r180 diff or i need an 2011-2014 STI diff mount? or Wrx/ STI diff mount are the same?
Thanks for your question. You will need an STI diff mount for the R180. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
can you use a 2015+ sti drive shaft in a 11-14 wrx 6 speed swap? or do I need a GR 11-14 sti drive shaft?
Thanks for your question. We have always used a driveshaft that is from the same generation chassis. That has always worked for us, so I would recommend that. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
What about the reverse lights? I just did the swap and my guy told me he couldn’t plug in the reverse lights because they’re different connections.
Thanks for your question. Take a look at our FAQ video as we specifically talk about wiring in there: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Hope that helps, and Stay Tuned!
Do you need an sti battery cable? Or would the stock wrx 2011 battery cable work fine
No need to replace the battery cable.
So is there a way to keep my r160 (stock 2012 wrx) Rear diff in with a 2012 sti 6 speed swap?
Thanks for your question. There is not unfortunately. Your best bet is to use the R160 out of a 2002 - 2005 WRX. That would have the correct final drive, and you would also get the added benefit of a Viscus differential as opposed to your open diff. I'd also recommend taking a look at our 6-Speed swap FAQ video, as we go into rear differentials in depth there. Here is a link to that: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html
I want to do a 6 speed swap but i dont want to swap out the rear dif do i have too have too?
Thanks for your question. The biggest requirement is that the ratio of the rear diff matches the transmission. I'd recommend looking at our FAQ video, as we go into great detail about that there, but the short answer is that some of the early 6-speeds will work with a 3.9 differential that the 08-14 WRX has, so those would be an option. Here is a link to the FAQ video: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
So i have a 2006 wrx TR. So I would need to change my rear diff to a 2002-2005 wrx to keep the same axles on the car?
Thanks for your question. That is correct. You would need the R160 with correct ratio to keep your WRX Axles.
i have a 2008 wrx i want to sti swap engine and trans. what years are compatible?
Thanks for your question. You can swap in any year STI 6-speed. Just make sure that the transmission you use is compatible with the rear differential you are using. Definitely go through our FAQ video, and especially the part at the end about doing this swap into a narrow body WRX, which you have. kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Which 6 speed is this? I'd like to follow your build. What year STI is this from?
Thanks for your question Joe. We used a 2007 STI transmission in this case, but the year isn't that important necessarily. The biggest thing is that you need to make sure that your transmission and rear differential will work together properly. If you like, send us an e-mail at flatironstuning@flatironsimports.com and we can put a kit together for you. Thanks for watching, and Stay Tuned!
Ok so I watched your other video and now I’m confused. I have 2014 wrx. I can keep my from axels. I can put a r180 and only sti rear axels with a wrx automatic driveshaft?
Thanks for your question. Yes, you can keep your front axles. And if you run an R180 rear diffrential, you can run STI axles. And with the R180, you would have to run STI axles because of the inner axle splines. You can use an automatic WRX driveshaft, or if you are running the R180 rear diff, you can run the STI driveshaft. I hope that helps, and Stay Tuned!
FlatironsTuning is there any year transmissions you wouldn’t want to swap in?
@@christophergruenwald5054 Thanks for your question. There really isn't. I would definitely recommend a transmission that has the DCCD compared to the ones that have a viscus center diff (and open front diff), but that is about it.
on the diff side do you have to replace the whole crossmember that holds the diff in place or just the mount brace?
Thanks for your question, just the front differential bracket.
FlatironsTuning ok thanks. I'm doing this 6 speed swap on my 2012 WRX. I was just making sure if by crossmember he ment by the whole cradle or just to mount. But got it now thanks man
Hey Flatirons Tuning, I plan on doing this 6-speed swap to my 2009 WRX hatch (narrow body) and just want to make sure that Im understanding everything. Ill first need a 6-speed from an 08-14 STi, my stock front axles will go right in. Ill also need an R160 differential since I want to retain my stock rear axles. And ill need a custom driveshaft. But what about the slave cylinder? Does that need to be swapped over?
Thanks for your question. Definitely check out the FAQ Video we did as well, as we discuss the narrow body WRX there specifically. To answer your question, yes, the STI slave cylinder is different because it is a pull style clutch. Good luck with the swap, and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning last question i believe. The 04 STi came with a 6-speed non DCCD transmission, this obviously seems like the cheaper swap into an 09 WRX since the 09 WRX has an R160 rear diff. Since the trans for the 04 STi is non DCCD, would it matter if I were to use the 09 WRX rear diff even though its an open diff? Its my understanding that as long as its non dccd all I have to do is match up the transfer ratios and I should be good correct?
@@justinmontoya6187 Thanks for your question. First, the 2004 STI does have a DCCD. There are some earlier JDM STI's that didn't have a DCCD (02-03 Ibelieve). Most of those have open front diff's as well. Your traction control will just have to work harder with the open diff's compared to TB diff's. And it doesn't matter whether the transmission has a DCCD or Viscus center diff in terms of fitment or installation. Mainly, it sounds like you are just looking for a 6-speed that has the correct transfer ratio to work with your R160 rear diff. I hope that helps, and let us know if you need anything for your swap!
@@FlatironsTuning right on the money, was just looking for what be easiest but that doesnt really sound like the preferred way to go around it so I think ill just be doing the v10 trans with r180 diff and custom axles from the driveshaft shop. One question on the DCCD controller, if i go with the v10 trans (08-14 STi) would i be able to use the stock STi DCCD controller thats on the center console assuming that i swapped my current center console for the STi? I would imagine as long as i had the wiring id be able to use it but am just wondering if you guys had explored that option.
I have a 2006 Subaru wrx, EJ255 motor and the car is completely stock. I was wondering what would I need to do in order to swap a STI 6-speed transmission into my car in the easiest and most effective/reliable way. I’ve been slowly working on obtaining STI parts for the motor as the engines are really similar but I want to have a transmission reliable enough for me to do whatever I want with the car.
Thanks for your question Derick. I'd say it would be good to go through this video, and go through our FAQ video too, as that will cover all of the information that you need. Here is a link to that: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Basically, you just need to decide if you want to use a WRX R160 differential, or an STI R180 rear differential. Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
FlatironsTuning I want to use an STI r180 differential but I think I’m confusing myself on what all I need to get in order to support that diff and to have everything function properly.
@@derickpurizaca8611 Sure. Go through the FAQ video, and we go through that in great detail there. Also, I didn't realize that you are on the 08-14 WRX video, you would want to look at our GD video as that will have information specific to your car. Here is a link to that: kzhead.info/sun/obmDZ6lqeZprmmg/bejne.html
I'm total lost now!! So I'm teying to do a swap on my 2011 wrx what year 6 speed and r180 are used in this video gettimg ready to start buying all the parts.
Thanks for your question. We used a 2007 STI transmission, and matching rear differential. If it helps, we do have an FAQ video that goes into detail specifically about the rear differentials, and that may be helpful to you as well. here is a link to that: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html I will also mention that we do have a swap kit up on our web-site that helps make sure that you get all of the parts that you need, etc. Here is a link to that: www.flatironstuning.com/flatirons-tuning-6-speed-transmission-swap-package-11-14-wrx I hope that helps, and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning yep I've watched them all thank you for making them
@@FlatironsTuning if I'm hearing this correct the 2011 wrx axles will work in the 07 r180 rear? Or was I mistaken or did I flip flop that
@@evanyoung5208 Close, STI axles will work with your WRX rear hubs, and an R180 differential. The R180 diff's have a different spline count, but from 08 on, the WRX 5x100 and STI 5x114.3 hubs have the same splines. Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
Just saw this when looking to upgrade my WRX i just bought. Is there a reason why you can't use the STI drive shaft and use an automatic one?
Thanks for the question. The STI and WRX have different bolt patterns where the driveshaft attaches to the differential. If you have an R160, the WRX driveshaft will bolt right up, and if you have an R180, the STI driveshaft will bolt right up. You can also swap out the flange to match the driveshaft when necessary as well: www.flatironstuning.com/sti-rear-differential-flange I hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning thanks for the reply. My friend crashed his STI and was thinking of picking it up to swap everything over. Would it be better just swapping everything down to the knuckles?
You don't have to but if your getting it for a good price go ahead!! All I did in my 08 Wrx was Sti 6 speed, 180 Sti driveshaft and you can use the front axles and you'll need 08-14 Sti axles in the rear. But if you have a 08-10 Wrx (narrowbody) then you'll need custom axles from driveshaft shop
So the 2010 wrx you have do different rear Alex right ?
Thanks for your question. Yes, you need different rear axles in the narrow-body WRX to run the R180. We cover that specifically in our FAQ video here: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Hopefully you guys reply, but I have a 2013 Wrx and I got a 2004 sti trans from a buddy . Can I use my stock r160 with that 2004 sti trans? And will my axles bolt up directly.
Yes. If you have an 04 STI transmission, it will work with your rear diff, and yes, your front axles will work with the STI transmission. If you haven't all ready, you should look at our FAQ video as well, which might answer any other questions that you may have, Here is a link to that: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html And just keep in mind that your rear differential is open. Good luck with your swap and thanks for watching!
So my trans has the front axle stubs, can i pull them out and just replace the seals to use my front 2013 stock axles?
Yes, if it is the stock diff, the stub axles will pop out, and you should be able to use your WRX axles in their place. There aren't too many of those early 2004 STI transmissions out there, so we haven't tried that first hand, but it should work.
Hopefully you all still monitor this but I have a 12 WRX and have a 05 STI tranns, clutch, flywheel, gear linkage with a driveshaft from a 12 automatic Impreza waiting to go in. Will all this work? Can I keep my axles and R160? Thanks
Hello Bradford. Thanks for your question. If you have an 05 STI transmission, that has a 3.9:1 rear ring and pinion ratio with is the same what your 12 WRX has. So assuming that is correct, yes, all of the parts that you describe should work. Keep in mind that you have an open rear diff, so you may want to address that at some point. Good luck with your swap!
FlatironsTuning thanks! What year STI tranns did you all go with?
Bradford Seymour I’m about to pick up the same swap any difficulties? I have a 2011 wrx
almost afraid to ask but - how much is a used STi 6 speed tranny, rear diff and axles approximately? and how much would you guys charge to install? thanks for the video and the help!
Thanks for your question! We don't deal in used parts unfortunately, but there are a number of sources for drivetrains like that. E-Bay would be a good place to start. And as far as install, we don't work on customer cars here, but we can refer you to a shop in your area. If you have all of the parts to swap out, labor isn't usually that bad actually. Good luck with your swap, and please feel free to contact us with any other questions.
Expect to pay approximately 2k~ for the tranny alone. Rear diff 150~.Axles $150. What car is it going into?
Are the wiring harnesses the same?
Thanks for your question. If you are wondering about the wiring, I would recommend watching our FAQ video as this is one of the topics that we specifically address. Here is a link to that: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Thanks for watching!
Hope you guys still see this comment on such a old video but do you need to replace the slave cylinder when doing the swap?
Thanks for your question. Yes, the slave cylinder is different for the 6MT transmission compared to the 5MT transmissions, even when they are both pull-style clutches. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Will a 2020 sti driveshaft work with the r180 for the 2014 wrx hatch?
Thanks for your question. Yes, that will work. Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning just wanted to make sure because a lot of people told me for my 2014 wrx hatch. I need a 2008-2014 driveshaft for the r180. I have a 2020 sti driveshaft. Just wanted to make sure. Thanks.
@@JradkunPnoy I see what you are saying. The same generation STI would be the safest bet for sure. But I don't think that the wheel base changed from 14 to 15. The GR is 3" longer than the GD, and that is why those driveshafts are different. If the wheel base changed, then yes, you would need a driveshaft from the same chassis generation. Hope that helps!
So ur saying what looks like a 8k project is actually relatively “easy” and “simple” sweet
Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Could you put a 2015-2021 6 speed into a 04 sti? im looking at buying a junkyard motor and trans and putting it into a 04 sti
Thanks for your question. In regards to the transmission specifically, there would be a lot of things to consider. The main ones being the matching rear differential, and speed sensor. But the biggest issue I suspect would be the center differential. They changed a couple of times through the STI's production, and I am not sure that a newer STI DCCD would work with an older computer. If you can work through that, and those other issues, you could make a newer 6-speed work in the 04 STI. I hope that helps, and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning so if I took the ecu from the 15-21 sti would that work better?
is there a difference between 07 wagon vs sedan axles?
Yes. For the GD, the wagon axles are a bit shorter because the track width is narrower.
Does the R180 come with a LSD?
The short answer is yes. Here is a link to all of the R180's on our site, and we go into detail about the transfer ratio and differential type. Most of the R180's are torque biasing differentials (gear type so not LSD). But the 04-06 STI did get a clutch type LSD. www.flatironstuning.com/subaru-oem-rear-differential-04-18-sti-r180 Hope that helps, and Stay Tuned!
I'm really interested in doing this to my 2011 wrx could you give me a rough estimate of what this will cost me?
Hey im thinking of doing this as well. If youre still available did you swap it? any problems and if you did could you let me know the price all together?
as far as clutch linkage, will a gd sti linkage work on a gh wrx
Thanks for your question. No, the STI and WRX have different clutch types from 2008 on, so the linkages are not interchangeable. Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning I realized I completely f-ed up in wording that, let me try that again, will a gd shift linkage work on a gh8 2009 wrx?
Gotcha. Unfortunately, no. The location that the shift linkage comes through the tunnel is different between the two chassis, so you really want the linkage for the chassis that you are putting the transmission into. Hope that helps!
@@FlatironsTuning when it comes to the linkage would I be able to reuse the shifter and just replace the stay and shift rod then?
@@rogueroger0 You could try it. But most likely the orientation of the entire assembly will not quite fit in the different chassis.
could you use a legacy spec b 6 speed and use what you said ?
Thanks for your question. Yes, a Spec-B 6-speed would install just as the STI transmission would, and it doesn't have the DCCD, so you would not need to worry about that wiring. Hope that helps, and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning legacy spec B trans, r180 rear diff, auto wrx drive shaft. What year drive shaft? 11-14 auto wrx?
@@jessec.7047 The Auto driveshaft would need to match the chassis of the car. So an 2008 - 2014 Auto driveshaft would work with a 2008 - 2014 WRX. Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning excellent! I own a 2012 wrx. Thankyou!
What about the starter? WRX work or need the STI one?
Both are identical.
sp33der617 this is incorrect they are not the same
They are the same. We used our WRX starter with no issues.
Do you mean the AVCS?
I did this on my 2012 WRX and just finished, my clutch won’t fully disengage and won’t go into gear if the car is on. I have bled the clutch master cylinder (brand new) like crazy and the slave cylinder and adjusted the pedals, I also used the alignment tool and my throw out bearing is in place. Does anyone know what to do??
Sorry to hear you are having trouble. What clutch are you using, and which clutch fork? It sounds like something is off with the movement of the pressure plate and TOB for sure.
@@FlatironsTuning I got the Excedy Stage 1 Heavy Duty organic clutch with an ACT Streetlite flywheel
@@connerwillson Are you using the 5-speed clutch fork or the 6-speed clutch fork?
@@FlatironsTuning I’m using the 6 speed. I’ll double check again just to make sure.
@@connerwillson I would say there is a reasonable possibility you are using the 5MT fork. If the slave can't move the fork car enough, this is fairly likely. We had the same issue with another swap a few months back. Comparing the 2 forks, the 6MT fork is bent differently and in this other case, we discovered that the 5MT fork doesn't doesn't move the TOB far enough because of the difference.
Great video mate, i,ve saw it few times but i still have a question for you. I have an wrx 2008, if ive understood correctly it has a r160 diff with a 3.54 ratio. If i find an sti gbox from a hawkeye 06/07, will i need to replace my rear diff or can i leave it stock? Also, should i need to change the flywheel? Thanks a lot mate
Hello Manuel. If you have a 2008 WRX, your rear diff R&P ratio should be 3.9:1, not 3.545:1. And yes, if you are going to keep your rear diff, you have to make sure that the transmission transfer ratio will match up with it. In regards to your flywheel, since the STI transmission uses a pull-style clutch, and your WRX uses a push-style, you need to change both your clutch and flywheel for an STI version to work with the STI transmission. I hope that helps, and thanks for watching!
So, if my info is correct, then all sti boxes except hawkeye 06/07 would match my rear diff, right? My conversion parts list then should be sti gearbox, sti or auto main shaft, sti flywheel and clutch, slave cylinder, sti gear linkage and dccd control unit. As long as seen on your video, front half shafts is not needed to be changed. You cant belive how many myths are about this swap and how easy seems to be after your video. Cheers
Hello Manuel. When you are looking at the STI transmission, what you need to pay attention to is the transfer ratio, not the final drive. All STI transmission are 3.9:1 final drive. But most of the recent 6MT's have used a 1.1:1 transfer ratio with a 3.545 rear ring and pinion ratio. If you want to keep your WRX rear differential, you have to make sure that you have an STI transmission with a 1:1 transfer ratio so it will match your 3.9:1 rear R&P ratio. As to all the misinformation out there, well, that is why we are putting these videos up. We're trying eliminate some of the confusion out there. Good luck with the swap, and let us know if you have any other questions.
And can you tell with no doubt which model and year has this kind of gearbox that i need? Thaks a lot for all the support
If you search by the serial number of the transmission, you will be able to find the front and rear R&P ratios that the transmission. Then it would be worth doing the same on your 5MT, just to be sure that someone didn't do an odd transmission swap into your car at some point (which we have seen actually). Basically, you want to double check everything before you buy a transmission if you can. Putting in a transmission that doesn't match with your rear differential will take out your center diff almost immediately.
How much does it cost?
If you send us a message through our web-site, www.flatironstuning.com , we can put a complete estimate together for you. Thanks for watching!
Has anyone Asked how much ? I have a 2014 Rex and I want a 6 Speed swap in the future
Thanks for your question Astyn. It depends on a lot of factors as far as cost. The biggest being to you want a new transmission? One of the other choices that you have to make is what to do with your differential. If you are going to be making power that requires the 6MT, you will likely be best off going with an R180. As a start, look at the kits that we have put together for the 04-05 6MT, and a matching 2007 R180 differential: www.flatironstuning.com/p-1937-2007-oem-sti-6-speed-transmission.aspx www.flatironstuning.com/p-4077-04-18-sti-r-180-rear-differential.aspx Keep in mind that there are other things that you will need like the rear diff forward support, etc., but this will get you in the ballpark as far as price goes. Thanks for watching!
FlatironsTuning , thank you for the video. I’ve got a 2014 WRX sedan also, and need a reliable daily that puts out around 316hp. Was going to go a 5 speed rebuild and blast plates, but you are making a lot sense with retaining the factory hubs. Can I get a complete speed kit for my car as well? 5 spd synchros are starting to catch upshifting from 3rd to 4th above 3500rpm. Thinking about the swap or trading up to an sti. Thanks.
Am i the only having trouble with buffering on this video ?
Shaggy ?????