Process West CAI on 2011 STI questions
 

Hi all,

Im in a bind and desperately seeking some help. Ive been looking at purchasing a second hand STI and when I asked the previous owner if it had any modifications the answer was no. I have noticed that they have put in a PW CAI. Immediately I asked why this was not mentioned earlier and if the car had been tuned accordingly. No answer yet. I had a independent mechanic conduct a pre purchase inspection and this report has come up good. However I am deeply concerned now I have found out this new piece of information. Should I be concerned.

Apart from this the car is good and I am seriously considering buying it.

I know even with this small mod it should really be tuned.

Thoughts and comments would be appreciated.

I already knew that a CAI would need a tune but after researching even more I think I better play it safe and stay away from this. Cheers.

Did you get a compression and leak down test done as part of the inspection and report?

Yes I did and all was fine.

Apparently then CAI has been o for approx. 1000km.

I would replace with stocker straight away.

A PW CAI is a good mod. Yes ideally a tune should be done.
If I was buying, I would try to put on a serious face and confront the seller
with a downward revised price because of this mod.
A pass on compression and leak tests would satisfy me but it is your money.
Better, ask one of the tuning workshops listed here.

A tune rather than replacing with stock is better value.

I think you are overacting a bit. If the compression test came back ok and passed the inspection test then go for it. A CAI is not a big deal at all...

I have a stock at box if you need one

The electronics in the car would of made some adjustments at this point. The Process west CAI is correctly sized ( internal pipe diameter ) so at this early stage I don't believe you would see any issues arise.