Alton Brobst If you’re a Subaru Impreza owner or enthusiast, you know that this car is all about performance. From its iconic all-wheel drive system to its turbocharged engine options, the Impreza is built to go fast and handle like a dream.
But all that speed and agility means nothing if your car can’t stop when it needs to. That’s where your brake system comes in, and specifically, your front calipers. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Subaru Impreza front calipers and answer the question: are all Subaru Impreza front calipers the same?
OEM vs Aftermarket Calipers
First, let’s talk about the two main types of front calipers available for your Impreza: OEM and aftermarket. OEM (original equipment manufacturer) calipers are the ones that come standard on your Impreza from the factory. These are typically high-quality and reliable, but they may not provide the performance you’re looking for if you’re a serious enthusiast.
Aftermarket calipers, on the other hand, are designed specifically for performance and can offer a significant upgrade over your OEM calipers. These may come from reputable brands like Brembo or Wilwood, and they may offer features like larger piston sizes, improved heat dissipation, and more durable construction.
Differences Between Calipers
So, are all Subaru Impreza front calipers the same? The short answer is no, there are some differences and variations depending on the model year and specific trim level of your Impreza.
For example, some Impreza models may come with two-piston calipers while others have four-piston calipers. Some may have floating calipers while others have fixed calipers. And of course, there are always options for upgrading to aftermarket calipers that may offer even more variations in terms of design and performance.
Benefits of Upgrading
If you’re considering upgrading your front calipers, you’re probably doing so for the increased performance benefits. Upgraded calipers can provide several key advantages over your OEM setup, including:
- Improved stopping power: With larger pistons and more braking surface area, high-performance calipers can help your Impreza stop more quickly and confidently.
- Better heat dissipation: When you’re pushing your Impreza hard, your brake system can generate a lot of heat. Upgraded calipers can help dissipate that heat more effectively, reducing brake fade and improving overall performance.
- More durable construction: Aftermarket calipers are often made from stronger and more durable materials than OEM calipers, which means they can withstand more abuse and last longer.
Considerations When Selecting Calipers
Of course, there are also some key considerations to keep in mind when selecting new front calipers for your Impreza. Some things to think about might include:
- Cost: Upgraded calipers can be expensive, so you’ll need to decide how much you’re willing to spend to get the performance benefits you’re after.
- Fitment: Some aftermarket calipers may require modifications to your Impreza’s brake system, so make sure you choose a setup that will be compatible with your existing components.
- Driving habits: If you’re using your Impreza primarily as a daily driver, you may not need the same level of performance as someone who tracks their car regularly. Consider your driving habits when selecting calipers.
- Other brake components: Upgraded calipers are just one part of a complete brake system. If you’re serious about upgrading your brakes, you may also need to consider things like brake pads, rotors, and brake lines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while all Subaru Impreza front calipers are not exactly the same, they do share some similarities and can usually be interchanged between different Impreza models. However, if you’re looking for improved stopping power and better overall performance from your Impreza’s brakes, you may want to consider upgrading to a high-performance aftermarket setup.
As always, do your research and choose a setup that fits your driving habits and budget. And whether you stick with your OEM calipers or decide to go for an aftermarket upgrade, make sure you take care of your brake system and stay safe on the road.
