So, you're thinking about turning your Subaru into a track monster? Or maybe you're just curious about what it takes to get your WRX or BRZ ready for some serious fun on the circuit? Well, buckle up, because we're diving deep into the world of Subaru track cars and the importance of those trusty keys! This guide will cover everything from prepping your ride to keeping it safe and secure, so you can focus on shaving seconds off your lap times.

Building Your Subaru Track Car

Let's talk about building your Subaru track car. Turning your Subaru into a track-ready beast is no small feat, but it's incredibly rewarding. Whether you're starting with a WRX, a BRZ, or even an older Impreza, there's a ton you can do to enhance its performance on the track. The key is to prioritize upgrades that will give you the most bang for your buck and address the specific weaknesses of your car. Here's a breakdown of the essential modifications:

Suspension Upgrades

First and foremost, let's address the suspension. Upgrading your suspension is arguably the most crucial modification you can make. A stock Subaru suspension simply isn't designed to handle the stresses of high-speed cornering and aggressive driving. Investing in a quality set of coilovers will dramatically improve your car's handling, reduce body roll, and allow you to fine-tune the ride height and damping to your liking. Brands like Ohlins, Bilstein, and KW offer excellent options for various budgets. Don't forget to also upgrade your sway bars and end links to further stiffen the chassis and minimize body roll. A stiffer chassis translates to more predictable handling and faster lap times. Moreover, consider adjustable control arms to dial in the perfect camber settings for optimal grip in the corners. Getting your alignment spot-on is essential for maximizing tire contact and minimizing wear.

Brake Enhancements

Next, let's talk about brakes. Stock brakes are often adequate for street driving, but they'll quickly fade and overheat under the extreme demands of track use. Upgrading to high-performance brake pads, rotors, and stainless steel brake lines is a must. Look for track-specific brake pads that can withstand high temperatures without losing their bite. Consider slotted or drilled rotors to improve heat dissipation and reduce brake fade. Stainless steel brake lines will provide a firmer pedal feel and more consistent braking performance. If you're serious about track driving, a big brake kit (BBK) is a worthwhile investment. A BBK will provide even more stopping power and heat capacity, allowing you to brake later and harder into corners. Brands like Brembo, StopTech, and Wilwood offer excellent BBK options for Subarus.

Powertrain Modifications

Moving on to powertrain modifications. While you don't necessarily need to go crazy with engine modifications right away, there are a few key upgrades that can significantly improve your Subaru's performance on the track. A cold air intake and a cat-back exhaust system will help your engine breathe better and produce more power. A tune is essential to optimize the engine's performance with these modifications. Consider an Accessport from Cobb Tuning, which allows you to easily flash different tunes to your ECU. If you're looking for more serious power gains, consider upgrading the turbocharger, fuel injectors, and fuel pump. However, these modifications will require a more extensive tune and may also necessitate upgrading the engine's internals. Keeping your engine cool is crucial on the track. Consider upgrading to a larger radiator and an oil cooler to prevent overheating. These upgrades will help maintain consistent engine performance and prevent costly damage.

Safety Gear

Last but not least, safety gear. Safety should always be your top priority when tracking your car. At a minimum, you'll need a Snell-approved helmet. A racing seat with a five- or six-point harness will provide much better support and safety than the stock seats. A roll cage or roll bar is highly recommended, especially if you're planning on running in wheel-to-wheel racing. A fire suppression system is also a good idea, as it can quickly extinguish a fire in the event of an accident. Don't forget about a head and neck restraint device (HANS), which can significantly reduce the risk of neck injuries in a crash. Remember, no amount of performance upgrades is worth risking your safety. Invest in quality safety gear and always prioritize your well-being on the track.

The Importance of Your Subaru Keys

Now, let's shift gears and talk about something seemingly simple but incredibly important: your Subaru keys. It might sound trivial, but the keys to your track car are more crucial than you think. We're not just talking about starting the engine; we're talking about security, convenience, and even performance.

Security

First off, security. While you might think your track car is safe and sound at the track or in your garage, theft is always a possibility. Modern Subaru keys come with sophisticated anti-theft technology, such as immobilizers and transponders, that prevent the car from being started without the correct key. Make sure your keys are always stored in a safe place and never left in the car. Consider investing in a high-quality alarm system for added security. A visible alarm system can deter potential thieves and provide an extra layer of protection for your prized track car. Also, be mindful of where you park your car, especially when traveling to and from the track. Park in well-lit areas and avoid leaving your car unattended for extended periods. A little bit of vigilance can go a long way in preventing theft.

Convenience

Next up, convenience. Let's face it, track days can be hectic. You're juggling gear, tools, and a million other things. The last thing you want is to be fumbling around for your keys. Having a dedicated set of keys for your track car can save you time and hassle. Keep your track car keys separate from your daily driver keys to avoid confusion. Consider attaching a brightly colored keychain or lanyard to your track car keys to make them easier to find. You might also want to consider a key organizer or wall-mounted key rack to keep all your keys in one place. This will not only save you time but also help you stay organized and focused on the task at hand: dominating the track!

Performance and Technology

Finally, performance and technology. Modern Subaru keys are more than just pieces of metal; they're often integrated with the car's electronic systems. Some Subaru models even allow you to customize certain vehicle settings based on the key being used. For example, you could program one key to activate a more aggressive throttle response and another key to activate a more conservative setting. This can be useful for different drivers or different track conditions. Additionally, some Subaru keys come with remote start functionality, which can be a lifesaver on cold mornings at the track. The ability to warm up your engine before hitting the track can help improve performance and reduce wear and tear. Furthermore, some aftermarket tuning solutions integrate with the car's key system, allowing you to switch between different engine maps with the turn of a key. This can be incredibly useful for optimizing your car's performance for different track layouts or weather conditions.

Essential Track Day Checklist

Before you head out for a track day, it's essential to have a checklist to ensure you're prepared. Here's a quick rundown:

• Car: Ensure your car is in top mechanical condition. Check fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid), tire pressure, and brakes.
• Keys: Double-check you have your keys! Consider a spare set, just in case.
• Safety Gear: Helmet, racing suit, gloves, and appropriate footwear are a must.
• Tools: Bring essential tools for minor repairs and adjustments.
• Fluids: Extra oil, coolant, and brake fluid can be lifesavers.
• Tires: Ensure your tires are in good condition and properly inflated.
• Documentation: Driver's license, track day registration, and car insurance.

Maintaining Your Track Car

Maintaining your track car is crucial for its longevity and performance. After each track day, thoroughly inspect your car for any signs of damage or wear. Check the tires, brakes, suspension, and engine. Replace any worn parts immediately. Regularly change the oil and other fluids. Consider using a high-quality synthetic oil specifically designed for track use. Have your car professionally inspected and serviced at least once a year. A qualified mechanic can identify potential problems before they become serious. Store your car properly when it's not in use. Keep it covered to protect it from the elements. Consider using a battery tender to keep the battery charged. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your track car running smoothly for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Building a Subaru track car and keeping it running smoothly is a labor of love. It takes time, effort, and money, but the thrill of pushing your car to its limits on the track is well worth it. And remember, those seemingly simple keys are an integral part of the equation. Keep them safe, keep them organized, and use them to unlock the full potential of your Subaru track machine. Now get out there and start turning those laps!

So there you have it, guys! Everything you need to know about turning your Subaru into a track weapon and keeping those all-important keys safe and sound. Now get wrenching, stay safe, and have a blast out on the track! Remember to always prioritize safety, maintain your car properly, and never underestimate the importance of those trusty keys. Happy tracking!