KCG Build Breakdowns: 2006 Subaru WRX

KCG Build Breakdowns: 2006 Subaru WRX

My 2006 Subaru WRX Build – Steel Gray Metallic

Back in 2020, I bought a 2006 Subaru WRX in Steel Gray Metallic from the original owner. The car was freshly repainted and super clean, but it definitely needed some TLC. Right away I started wrenching and bringing it back to life.

When I got it, the WRX had cracked RPF1 wheels, blown BC Racing coilovers, an outdated sound system, foggy headlights, and a bunch of small issues. The first stop was Paul at Yimi Sport Tuning, where we knocked out the big stuff:

  • Full Aisin timing belt service kit

  • Complete fluid flush and fill – Motul brake fluid, Motul oil, Motul trans/diff oil, Subaru coolant, even fresh wiper fluid

They treated the car like it was their own and set a solid foundation for the build.

Upgrades Begin

After that, I replaced the clutch with an Exedy Stage 1 kit and new flywheel (plus, yes, fresh fluids again). Then came suspension: I scored a set of Whiteline Coilovers (built by AST/MOTON – super rare and high-end), along with STI Group N bushings, strut mounts, and drivetrain mounts.

Braking was next. I went to Evasive Motorsports for a full setup:

  • StopTech slotted rotors

  • StopTech sport pads

  • Stainless steel brake lines

  • Motul RBF600 fluid

Not long after, I added new shoes: Advan TC4 17x8 +45 wrapped in Yokohama V701 tires from Rcompound USA. Clean setup.

Restoration & Rare Finds

Slowly I began restoring and upgrading even further:

  • Prova Super Taikyu wing (2004) – a Super rare find

  • Greddy front lip, painted two-tone Steel Gray with black for contrast

  • Cusco sway bars and AVO endlinks

  • Tanabe H-brace

  • 2019 STI intercooler with Grimmspeed aluminum piping

  • New ported TD04 turbo, lines, and hoses By SoCal Porting!! 

When one of the Whiteline coilovers broke on a pothole, I upgraded to Annex Suspension with Swift Springs. That setup was killer.

I also picked up some STI goodies along the way:

  • STI Carbon fiber inner rear-view mirror cover

  • Spec C STI aluminum trunk

  • Spec C roof vent

Finally, I ordered BBS Rev7 wheels in gold, 18x9.5 +43. Unfortunately, I never got to mount them.

The End of an Era

After four years of blood, sweat, and tears, I sold the WRX in 2024. Between daily driving another car and constant police attention (including two points on my record – one from an “exhaust” ticket, somehow), I decided it was time to let go.

Looking back, the build was expensive, time-consuming, and required 100% dedication. But I’m proud to say I built it entirely on my own with no sponsors or outside help. Just me, my vision, and my love for Subarus.

Do I wish I never sold it? Absolutely. But I don’t regret the journey. That WRX will always be part of my story, and I’ll always look forward to the next project.