WRX Air Suspension - What Do I Need?
The Subaru WRX is not only a staple in the car community, it changed the way car enthusiasts looked at sedans. The WRX can be broken up into three categories: Impreza-based models, First Generation VA, and First Generation VB. For most, the 2000-2014 WRX models were what really stood out as the car community grew drastically in these years. While most were concerned about pushing the performance capabilities of these cars, there are many out there looking to add air suspension to them. Today, we are going to look at what it takes to bag a WRX and what parts you need for a bagged WRX.
Do WRXs Have Air Suspension?
The Subaru WRX did not have air suspension from the factory. Instead, it had a very well-tuned suspension setup that was geared toward putting all of the horsepower and torque to the ground. Since the WRX has a very rich background in rally racing, Subaru equipped the WRX models with the best suspension available.
What Do I Need To Add Air Suspension To My WRX?
If you want to bag your WRX, you can take two different routes, buying a complete WRX air suspension kit, or piecing together your own kit using all of the high-quality components that fit your specific application. In this article, we are going to give you a list of parts you will need if you are piecing together your own WRX air suspension kit using AccuAir.
Air Compressor
Let’s start at the first component that goes to work in your air suspension system. In order to get air into your air struts, you are going to need compressors. Air compressors take outside air, compress it, and send it to the air tank to be stored for use on-demand. Most kits will utilize two compressors for quick operation, so AccuAir has put together a VIAIR Dual 485C air compressor kit to make things easier.
Air Tank
From your air compressor, the compressed air gets stored into the air suspension air tank. The air tank’s job is to store your compressed air until you are ready to use it. AccuAir manufactures some of the highest quality air tanks on the market. Our ENDO air suspension air tanks allow tanks to be built modularly with all precision machined aluminum components and a bolted construction. This provides a weld-free and leak-free tank. The aluminum body also prevents rust from forming when moisture is present in your air tank.
Air Lines
Think of your air lines as the veins of your air suspension system. In order for air to travel between components, you are going to need air lines to supply the air from your air tank to the air struts. AccuAir offers the highest quality air suspension air lines available with everything you need to get it installed.
Valve Manifold
A valve manifold for air suspension is the heart of any air suspension system. The valve manifold electronically controls the air delivery in your system. It is usually made up of an aluminum block with electronic solenoids, valves, and ¼” fittings to allow for an easy installation. The biggest thing to look for here is whether you need a 2 or 4 corner unit, the quality of the manifold as it may be exposed to the elements, and the way that it connects to your air suspension system.
Management System
An air suspension management system controls how air flows through your system allowing you to air up or air down. Gone are the days of manual switches being the only way to manage your air suspension system. With advancements in technology, AccuAir has transformed the way you manage your air suspension system. With several different air suspension management options, AccuAir has everything you need to elevate your air suspension management.
Air Struts
In order to get your WRX on air, you are going to need to replace your factory shocks and struts with air struts. Air struts are very similar to your factory struts and mount in the same location without any modifications needed. Instead of a coil spring, air struts feature rubber bladders that inflate with air to raise the vehicle up and then deflate when you want to lower the vehicle. AccuAir offers a variety of air suspension air struts for you to choose from.
Water Traps/Filters
Due to the nature of air suspension setups, compressed air can cause moisture buildup in your air tank and air lines. In order to prevent this, it is recommended to install a water trap or water filter. Moisture buildup in air suspension tanks can cause rust from the inside out on lesser quality air tanks. AccuAir's ENDO tanks are made from aluminum to resist corrosion and protect against rust. Installing a water trap or water filter is an easy way to ensure your air lines and air suspension components stay free of water and moisture, especially for those who live in areas where temperatures get below freezing.
Ride Height Sensors
While ride height sensors are not a core component of an air suspension system, they will make getting to your favorite ride heights much easier. Ride height sensors measure exactly where your vehicle is in relation to the ground, giving you real-time metrics on how high or low your vehicle is. This also allows for you to pre-set heights for one-touch air outs and air ups. This eliminates the need to constantly pulse your system to get to your desired height.
Air Suspension Management For Subaru WRX
If you are ready to take your WRX to the next level, AccuAir can help supply you with the best air suspension components available. With a large catalog of high-quality air suspension components, our team can help you build the best WRX air suspension kit that meets your budget and functional needs. Give us a call today or shoot us an email to talk to one of our air suspension specialists.
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