Item ID: 55160
Product Code: 2015-2018 WRX FA20 Turbo Engine
Serial Number: FA20 J866825
Year: 2015-2018
Mileage: 45,000 miles
Applications:

What engine does the 2015–2018 Subaru WRX use?

The 2015–2018 Subaru WRX uses a 2.0L turbocharged horizontally opposed Boxer engine with direct injection and variable valve timing. This engine is commonly identified in replacement-engine searches as the FA20DIT.

Is the FA20DIT the same as a naturally aspirated FA20?

No. The FA20DIT is the turbocharged direct-injected version used in applications such as the WRX. Therefore, buyers should not treat naturally aspirated FA20 engines from vehicles such as the BRZ/FR-S as direct replacements.

Is this engine turbocharged?

Yes. This listing is for the turbocharged FA20DIT engine family used in compatible Subaru WRX applications. However, verify exactly which attached components, including the turbocharger, are included with the specific engine shown.

Does the FA20DIT use direct injection?

Yes. The WRX FA20DIT uses direct fuel injection. Your current live description incorrectly says “direct and port fuel injection.”

Remove the reference to port injection.

Does the FA20DIT use a timing belt or timing chain?

The FA20DIT uses chain-driven camshafts. Therefore, there is no conventional timing-belt replacement interval. Nevertheless, your technician should inspect the timing-chain system, guides, tensioners and related components before installation.

What should I replace before installing a used JDM FA20DIT?

Before installation, inspect or replace appropriate:

• Valve-cover gaskets
• Front crankshaft seal
• Intake and exhaust gaskets
• Other accessible seals
• Spark plugs
• Worn ignition components
• PCV components
• Engine oil
• Oil filter
• Coolant
• Accessory components as needed

Additionally, inspect the turbocharger, turbo oil-feed and return lines, coolant lines, timing-chain system and direct-injection fuel components.

Should I install new spark plugs?

Yes. Install appropriate new spark plugs and inspect the ignition coils, connectors and wiring before initial startup.

Doing this provides a known ignition baseline and makes initial diagnosis easier.

Should I inspect the turbocharger before installation?

Yes. Inspect the turbocharger for excessive shaft play, damaged compressor/turbine components, oil leakage and other visible problems.

Furthermore, inspect the turbo oil-feed, return and coolant connections before startup.

How should I prime the FA20DIT before first startup?

Do not immediately start the replacement FA20DIT after installation.

First, fill the engine with the correct oil and install a new oil filter. Next, disable fuel and ignition according to the applicable Subaru service procedure so the engine cannot start.

Crank the engine in controlled intervals to establish lubrication. Once your technician confirms proper oil circulation, restore the required systems and proceed with initial startup.

Should the turbocharger also be primed?

Yes. If the turbocharger has been removed, replaced or allowed to drain, establish proper lubrication before allowing it to operate at engine speed.

A dry initial startup can damage turbocharger bearings.

How should I bleed the FA20DIT cooling system?

Fill the cooling system with the correct Subaru-compatible coolant according to the applicable service procedure.

Next, thoroughly purge trapped air while monitoring coolant level, circulation and engine temperature.

During the initial heat cycle, verify heater operation, radiator-fan operation and stable engine temperature. After complete cooldown, recheck coolant level and inspect for leaks.

Do not consider the installation complete until the cooling system is thoroughly bled.

What should I check during first startup?

Monitor:

• Engine lubrication
• Coolant temperature
• Coolant circulation
• Oil leaks
• Coolant leaks
• Fuel leaks
• Turbo oil/coolant connections
• Abnormal engine or timing-chain noises
• Misfires
• Check-engine warning
• Fuel-pressure-related faults
• Cooling-fan operation

Finally, scan the ECU for diagnostic trouble codes before normal driving.

 Recommended FA20DIT Installation Checklist

1. Verify the JDM FA20DIT against the original WRX engine.
2. Compare all vehicle-specific components.
3. Transfer required USDM components.
4. Replace appropriate accessible gaskets and seals.
5. Inspect the timing chain, guides and tensioners.
6. Inspect the turbocharger.
7. Inspect turbo oil-feed, oil-return and coolant lines.
8. Install appropriate new spark plugs.
9. Inspect ignition coils and connectors.
10. Inspect direct-injection fuel-system components.
11. Inspect PCV components.
12. Install fresh engine oil and a new oil filter.
13. Prime the engine lubrication system before startup.
14. Prime/lubricate the turbocharger as required.
15. Fill and thoroughly bleed the cooling system.
16. Confirm stable operating temperature.
17. Check for oil, coolant, fuel and boost/vacuum leaks.
18. Scan the ECU for diagnostic trouble codes.
19. Recheck oil and coolant after complete cooldown.

Always follow the applicable Subaru factory service procedures and J-Spec Auto Sports warranty requirements.