Replace that undersized, plastic stock intercooler with a GrimmSpeed Top Mount Intercooler Kit, featuring cast aluminum end tanks, large bar and plate core and TIG welded construction. The factory FA20dit TMIC is well-suited for stock applications, but when boost levels are increased, the higher post-turbo air temps contribute to pre-detonation (or 'knock') and loss in power. The GrimmSpeed intercooler is designed to keep charge temps consistent during aggressive driving so that the rest of your parts can work to make power.
The GrimmSpeed engineering team has a history of developing the highest performing Top Mount Intercoolers available and the 2015-21 WRX fitment is no different. This intercooler was in the testing and revision phase for over a year, as continual improvements to performance and fitment were found. The GrimmSpeed kit offers a perfectly fitting intercooler assembly, along with a custom 5-ply silicone throttle body coupler and hi-torque stainless steel clamps. Each kit also includes our unique two-piece splitter design that replaces the factory engine cover with a splitter design that's made to fit the larger core of the GrimmSpeed TMIC. The performance of any Top Mount Intercooler is only as good as the splitter that's directing air through the core and in this area especially, the GrimmSpeed team nailed it.
Each intercooler uses two unique end tanks. The first accepts the hot charge air from the turbo and feeds it to the intercooler core. The second receives the cooled charge air from the core and delivers it to the throttle body. These end tanks are precision cast and machined right here in Minnesota. Following inspection, end tanks are welded to high density bar and plate intercoolers before the entire assembly is pressure tested, cleaned and sealed for shipment. 5-ply silicone couplers hold their shape in extreme conditions and ensure that charge air makes it to and from the intercooler with no trouble. Splitters are laser cut from aluminum sheet and CNC bent before being assembled and powdercoated with a durable texture black finish. Stainless steel hardware secures the splitter to the factory hood scoop.
We tested the OEM TMIC, GrimmSpeed TMIC and a leading competitor TMIC in a back to back to back comparison and used our multi-sensor data acquisition system to evaluate temperature deltas, intercooler efficiency, pressure drop and more. Below is a chart showing cooling efficiency between the three.