What is the best year STI 6-speed to use for a swap?
Our Question of the Week this week is one that we have received a number of times which is, what is the best year STI 6-speed to use for a swap?
If you have looked at the kits on our website, you will notice that we use the 2007 STI 6-speed, and there are a few reasons for that. The main one being that it is the most versatile because it is easy to install into a WRX all the way back to 2002, and all the way up to 2014.
It is also the least expensive new 6-speed, and it has some of the best features as well.
But what this question really boils down to is whether it is cheaper to find a used transmission compared to purchasing a new one?
And what about some of the early STI transmissions that don't have the DCCD center differential?
Or the Spec-B transmission for that matter?
That is what we address in this Question of the Week.
Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Here are links to the:
MAP VSSP - www.flatironstuning.com/mapdc...
MAP DCCD Controller - www.flatironstuning.com/map-d...
The 2007 STI Transmission - www.flatironstuning.com/subar...
Our Transmission swap packages - www.flatironstuning.com/catal...
I haven’t paid anyone to work on my Subarus in 15 years, but I would make an exception for you guys.
That is a high compliment. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Or the guys at Motoiq....
I don’t know but at almost $8K on your website for an 07’ Sti 6spd, I’d be willing to get a used transmission first.
That’s a race tranny or a 5 speed to 6 speed swap
Never let this channel die, you guys are really very helpful and thorough!
Thanks very much! Please help us get the word out about what we are doing by sharing if you can. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning will do! Keep up the content I love the podcasts also! I sit next to my wrx every time I watch it.
That is awesome :-)
Excellent video great topic, I learn so much from these question videos. Thank you so much for taking the time to share I appreciate it!👍🏼👍🏼
Of course! Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Great upload guys!!!! This is really helping me make up my mind on what direction to go with my 2013 WRX!!!!!
Very glad to hear it was helpful! Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
This is so informative.. thank you guys so much.
Very glad that the video was helpful and please pass it on. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Very good advise here regarding taking a chance on a used 6 speed and ending up with a lemon transmission vs new 6 speed.
Thanks very much for watching and glad that the video was helpful. Stay Tuned!
Great insight for people curious on making the jump from the 5 speed to a 6 speed, have a video on the negatives and positives of drop in pistons vs graded pistons?
Thanks for your question. We'll add it to our list for QotW. Stay Tuned!
ive got the 04 forester STI 6 speed in my 06 forester with longer ratios, helps with fuel efficiency on hwy driving love it!!
which 6 speed manual is best for a forester sh, the 3rd gen subaru forester?
great video! thanks
Very glad we could help. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
I live in Kansas. Would love to visit your shop. If I am getting the 2022 Im going get my car modded only though you guys. Thanks for this awesome video 🙂
Thanks very much and you are welcome to stop by! Unfortunately we don't work on customer cars, so we couldn't do the work for you, but we can absolutely help you get any parts that you need for your car. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Keen on swapping my 5EAT with 6 speed sti
It is a lot of work, but it can be done. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Back again! Been seeing a bit about the fa24 and its potential. From what I understand the FA engines can use the same transmissions, but the FA24 can be found in things like the ascent (which I assume is auto only). Wondering on the strength of the 2015+ 6 speeds vs the 06-07. From what I hear the 2015+ uses a split case design like the 5 speed which probably makes it weaker? Using for a mid engine platform instead of awd so not worried about dccd or rear diff ratio compatibility. Thanks for your time!
Amazing!
Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
I have a 2010 wrx and would like to know what trans I can use with my stock rear diff if possible? also what other parts would be required besides the clutch and slave? love the videos please keep them coming.
Thanks for your question. That is covered in our 6-Speed Swap FAQ video here: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Hope this question gets answered. I have a 5th gen legacy GT, is there a way to upgrade the transmission to a sti 6 speed?
Great video again! What's needed to swap a legacy spec b 6speed transmission into a WRX 04 chassis?
Thanks for your question. Fitment is the same as the STI transmission, so you would just follow this guide: kzhead.info/sun/obmDZ6lqeZprmmg/bejne.htmlsi=uXEYGcWqpO8strAI Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
thank you for the quick reply! @@FlatironsTuning
Kinda video related. Who do you guys use for literal tunes for Subarus? I have a 21 sti and want a reliable tune to make my car last. Any ideas??
My preferred choice would be the jdm 05 RA 6speed (comes with front helical lsd, dccd, rear plated diff) and all ever important imternal gear oil pump for external oil cooler... And yes that will be my go to swap on all of my application be it fast road or rally or roadcourse use... Especially when money is no objection, new transmission definstely... But a good rebuild used unit will be fine as well... Atleast all seals must be replaced before install
Thanks for the detailed comment! Stay Tuned!
Curious what is the best brand new 6spd transmission for a 2013 STI? Meaning the best gear ratio for street / track use as well as heavy duty synchros to avoid grinding.
Thanks for the question. You are going to be best staying with the 2013 STI trans that your car came with. There are a few different DCCD's so you want to make sure that you are going to keep the factory controller happy and working well. That transmission will be fine. Just good fluid to help with the synchros (Motul Gear 300). If you do have any issues, you can re-build it and update to the carbon synchros if neccessary. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
I'm surprised you didn't mention the earlier V7 Sti Non-DCCD 6spd's.
^^this.
Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
I have a 21 WRX is a new 2007 STI trans still the best option? At 1:00 you said it works the best for 2002-2014.
Great video! If you were to STi DCCD 6spd swap into a 2022+ WRX, what year and model number transmission would you use and why?
The STI transmissions are so similar the year wouldn't matter much, even for the 22+ WRX. I'd say a 2007 or newer STI trans so you have good options for the rear differential. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning Awesome, thanks so much for responding to my message.
@FlatironsTuning Also, are there any differences between 2007 and 2008, In your video you talk about the strength of the 2007 gears, so do you have a preference for 2007 or 2008?
I've purchased a used JDM Forester STI SG9 6 spd for my 04 Forester XT in the past and now I want another 6spd for my 99 Impreza swap. I want non-dccd because I don't particularly care about it and I've had it in an old car before. I also want lower gearing that the 07 trans has and the spec b is similar. In theory, if I should take out the 07's dccd diff I could install a spec b 6spd center diff, correct? I would keep the dccd and install it if I ever wanted to upgrade or if the other diff crapped out. I look at it as the best of both worlds and the cost of a new dccd is what deters me from them in the first place. Thanks!
Thanks for your question. You can install a viscous center diff in a DCCD transmission, but it is not simple. A fair amount of parts have to be replaced actually. Generally I'd say it isn't worth it. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Good info
Thanks for watching. Stay Tuned!
Hey, I have a 21 WRX is a new 2007 STI trans still the best option? At 1:00 you said it works the best for 2002-2014.
Great info in this video. Personally I think the early GD 04-05 is the best simply because of the 35:65 power-split, 06+ tend to understeer more than the older models. I have a version 8 sti and it oversteers just a touch more then understeer, also running MAP DCCD.
Thanks for the comment and Stay Tuned!
which 6 speed manual is best for a forester sh, the 3rd gen subaru forester?
thanks for this! Its a lot of help!! so what would version be the 2007 STI 6-speed ? V (WHAT)? or what TY code?
Very glad that it is helpful! The 2007 STI transmission is TY856WW8MD. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning you guys are amazing. thanks!
Saludos bendiciones yo tengo un Subaru impreza RS 2005 five speed y quiero poner una transmission 6 speed cual me rrecomienda???🤗🤗🦕🦕no turbo
which 6 speed manual is best for a forester sh, the 3rd gen subaru forester?
what is the tallest ratio for 6th gear available? I want the lowest rpm possible at 60mph because of my wheel size. 2014 sti 6 speed. Thanks for these videos!
Thanks for your question. Rallispec has a long ratio set for the 6-speed, which has a slightly taller 6th gear. Here is a link to that: www.rallispec.com/gea_syn_rstf145.html It would be a fair amount of work to install, but if you need the tallest ratio, that is it Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
That would be 6mt from 05 JDM SG9 forester sti.. (the only forester ej25 with 6mt) It have slightly taller ratio than impreza sti... But too bad it didnt have dccd if i remember correctly
i have a 17 sti six speed in my 07 wrx with the vss pro
Nice! Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
I looked into this for my 2005 wrx sedan, and for all new parts you need from one single order from a trusted source, not including fuel injectors, built iag engine, brakes and labor, I'm looking at like 20k. I could literally buy a 2020 STi for less by the time I'm done.
We do have a kit on our website that lets you put together the components for your swap. It is a good tool to get an estimate together of what it would cost to do the swap: www.flatironstuning.com/flatirons-6-speed-transmission-swap-package-04-05-wrx We could help with all of those other parts too. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Random question I picked up a JDM transmission V10 and there’s a sticker which I believe is the part number. What year did it come out of based on the part number TY856UB1KA ?
Thanks for your question. Yes, if you google that serial number, you will find out all the information about that transmission. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
did Getrag develop the 06 onwards STI TRANSMISSIONS as there was a Rumour Porsche Helped develop the STI Transmissions of that ERA yet the Porsche Gearboxes are stamped with the GETRAG logo ?
Thanks for your question. No, the STI 6-Speed transmission is designed by Aisin. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Thanks for the video. Very helpful. Getting ready to sti trans swap my 2023 vb. Hopefully I can earn the sti badge! Aiming for 600whp on a Garret g series 🙌🔥
Very cool! We haven't tried this yet, but it sounds like the swap is fairly straight forward. Best of luck and let us know how it goes!
@@FlatironsTuning I will report back! Long work ahead of me. Aiming to finish the build by Feb 2024. taking advantage of holiday sales this Black Friday-Christmas hehe. ETS has released a super simple bolt on turbo kit with the new Garrett g series and I can’t wait to try it out. I’ll be limited to fueling but I think the right tune on e45-55 can hit 600 🙌. Thanks again for this video, watched it over 3 times and took notes haha. Also, yea very straightforward. Only thing to note is 05-14 sti axles in the rear won’t fit but 15-21st I axles do. You can also substitute the Carbon fiber driveshafts that third party sells. But other than that, it’s just like previous years from all the research I did. Thanks!!
Yes! We need to know the best STi trans to swap into our VB’s! Let’s get some videos on VB WRX to Sti swaps such as brakes and trans etc
How did the swap go? My 2023 trans just took a crap lol
@@alexthesaxman6219 nooooo I’m sorry man. Did you figure out the culprit? :( Guessing either 3rd or 4th went? ☹️ I haven’t done it yet. I did buy a 2019 sti trans and matching r180 but I do not have dccd controller/axles/clutch/driveshaft yet. I went a little over my budget I had originally planned as I picked up some custom 1 off fueling solution so I’m working on trying to retune my car for more boost with the Garrett turbo. In the mean time, I have just put in an ACT HD clutch and so far it’s holding great. I will most likely revisit the trans swap this holiday season to get a nice strong clutch and flywheel on sale (unless the trans goes before then. Knock on wood 🤞🤞) Good luck man. Hope your car is back up and running in no time!!
I put a JDM 02 STi RA 6 speed in my 05 wrx. No dccd and ap suretrac diffs. These aren't ever mentioned in swaps and i'm not sure why not
Thanks for your question. I'd say is is most likely because there aren't as many of those transmissions as the ones that have the DCCD. We definitely get many more questions about the Spec-B transmission compared to the early STI ones. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning are the early versions as strong as the later ones?
The spec B box doesn't have the speed sensor.
Hey Flatirons? I have an 07 WRX wagon tuned with extensive mods, tuner said its ready to go over the 300awhp i asked for reliability (350-450). Only 147000 kms not miles so its pretty low, will the 6 speed swap be necessary or just a built trans work? Also i never launch it as it is a daily driver. Cheers
Thanks for your question. We actually answer that question here: kzhead.info/sun/d7qSeNBprWt3jaM/bejne.html Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
What's the difference between the sti 6 speeds and the 2.5i 6 speeds. Different gear ratios and center differential?
Thanks for your question. The two transmissions are entirely different. No common parts between them. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
What do you guys think of the 15+ WRX 6speed as a very budget oriented upgrade for an older GD? I’m researching it right now for my bugeye that is currently sitting.
Thanks for your question. The short answer is it is not an upgrade. The newer WRX 6-speed transmissions are based on the older 5-speed design, so really no stronger than the 5-speeds. Some changes were made to the axles and rear diff that also make fitment in an older platform challenging. Not something that we would recommend. Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
Can someone please help me with this info? I am having a hard time finding any specs. 1. What 6MT is in the 2022 WRX? Is it the "Old" WRX 6MT that was really a 5MT with an added gear? 2. Also, does the 2022 6MT have a front LSD 3. with center diff? 4. and, is there an rear LSD, and if so, what type?
Thanks for your question. The 2022 WRX has the same transmission as the 2015 - 2021 WRX. It is a split case transmission with 6 gears. It is not the STI 6-speed. And both the front and rear differentials are open, and the center differential in the MT is a viscus unit. The WRX GT with the Performance CVT transmission does have some type of adjustable center differential, but we don't know much about it yet. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Have any thoughts on durability of the 5 or 6 speeds in lighter, mid engine applications?
Something like the Factory 5 818? I think that the 5-Speeds seem to hold up all right for lower power levels, but we had a few people that still had durability issues with them if they got over about 300 whp if memory serves. More people started looking at going with the STI 6-speed. I think that what factors in there is that in AWD, the power is split between 2 diff's. When you remove the rear, and all of the torque is sent through the front diff, that can put more stress on the transmission than you would think. If you put big sticky tires on the car, that can cause more drivetrain shock than the front diff typically sees as well. Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
I've been teasing with the idea of having my 5-speed swapped for a 6-speed on my '05 Turbo MT Baja; is this a feasible project or would it be impractical? I find myself wishing for that 6th gear when I'm driving at highway speeds. Thoughts?
It can be done, and we have helped a couple of Baja's make the conversion. But there are a few differences that make them a little more tricky. And remember that the extra gear is down low, not up top. So your highway rpm will be largely unchanged. Same transmission ratio, just 3.9 final vs 4.11 final. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Thank you for the insight and the information! Subscribed to y’all! Looking forward to more informative videos!
What about a 15 and up wrx 6 speed would that work with the gd bodies if you just want to stay stage 2 ?
Thanks for your question. Those transmissions are actually entirely different than the STI 6-speed and aren't really any more durable than the older 5-speed transmissions. We don't recommend trying to put them into any car other than the ones that came with them. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning wow thank you for saving my pockets
Hey Guys, any idea if a VA STi 6 speed will fit in a GD STi? I know the speed sensors will need to be dealt with, but any other things to consider?
Thanks for your question. We actually cover both of those questions in our FAQ video actually. It is very straight forward; kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
I am going to be putting a 6 speed into my gen 3 liberty, would y'all still recommend the 2007 6 speed?
Thanks for your question. I'd say that something like would still be a good place to start most likely. We haven't ever worked on a Liberty so I can't speak from direct experience. The biggest factor I'd say is how your car gets the speed signal. If it is from a sensor on the transmission, and based on the generation I think that it does most likely, then yes, the 07 trans is a good starting point. If you are getting vehicle speed from the axle/tone ring, then you would be more open to newer transmissions as well. Hope that helps and thanks for watching. Stay Tuned!
How would one order a new Transmission? Do you go through the dealer?
Only if you want to pay too much. We have them on our website, and freight is included. (they have to go truck freight because of the weight). Here's the link: www.flatironstuning.com/subaru-oem-sti-transmissions-6-speed Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Are there any JDM 6 speed non DCCD options to upgrade from my 2011 WRX?
Sure, you can use any of those transmission if that is what works best for you. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
If you have a 2004 sti transmission. Can you switch axles from 5x100 to 5x114.3 ?
Yeah you can
Thank for your question. We go into detail about that sort of question in our FAQ video here: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
Thanks for the video. Just two small corrections: 1. for old GC pre 1998 that use cable driven speedo you need GD 6speed with speed sensor, you cannot simulate it via electrical current. Same goes for all GC RA models without ABS. Also it is easier to use 2004 and older 6 speed with axle stubs to connect to original GC axles. The axle stubs can be put to all later transmissions, but it is additional cost. 2. 06-07 6speed have DCCD that has also built in mechanical LSD function up to 30%. It will push together the clutch pack if there is speed difference between front and rear. That means it works even without the DCCD controller. Older fully open versions can be very tricky and even dangerous in wet or icy conditions without any controller.
Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching. Stay Tuned!
Im currently installing a six speed into my 01 foz I'm having trouble with wiring the Speedo so I have a 3 pin on the chassis and on the six speed has a two pin How do I convert the wiring together
@@delacruiser2746 The iWire adapter may make your install easier: www.flatironstuning.com/iwire-turbo-to-dccd-transmission-adapter See if that plug looks like it will work for you. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
A spec b with the sti front diff installed wouldn't be a bad option. Especially for a daily driver.
Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment. That is definitely a solid option. There is a good deal of benefits to getting the STI transmission with the DCCD, but I do like this idea too. Stay Tuned!
The 2018+ has hardened gears and synchros
Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Whats needed to swap a ej257 into a 02-07 chassis?
Thanks for your question. We have that covered in this video: kzhead.info/sun/abyzn9SfmKutaps/bejne.html Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
🔥🔥🔥🔥
Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
Why use the 07-09 subaru legacy spec b?
Thanks for the question. We actually discuss this in the video. Stay Tuned!
I have 2009 GRF STI Whats the best 6 speed swap
Ha! In that case, stick with what you have. You are in good shape. Stay Tuned!
No mention of the oil pump vs splash shield and benefits/downsides of those differences?
I concur with your assessment!! @steve
Thanks for your question. There are definitely some benefits to the early transmissions that have the built in oil pump, but Subaru has really started discontinuing a lot of the essential parts for those. And since they are the oldest, that can be a real problem if you need to rebuild them. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
@@FlatironsTuning Good to know. Thanks for the reply!
Are 2008 sti 6 speeds good?
Thanks for your question. All of the STI transmissions are very similar in terms of strength. As long as they are in good working order, pretty much all STI transmissions would work well for you. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
So what’s the future of these cars? 5 speeds suck, used transmissions will dry up, and new ones are crazy expensive! Tremec should make a awd transmission. Save us tremec!
That is an interesting suggestion for sure. I guess time will tell. Thanks for watching and Stay Tuned!
You guys really made this video just to tell us to buy a new one🤦🏻♂️
Can you match a 2010 sti tranny with r180 2007 sti diferencial?
Yes, www.flatironstuning.com/subaru-oem-rear-differential-04-18-sti-r180
Thanks for your question, We go over that in our FAQ video here: kzhead.info/sun/qMptpMd_bHmnd40/bejne.html Hope that helps and Stay Tuned!
I wish I would have seen this video before I 6 speed swapped my GC 🥲
Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching. Stay Tuned!