Exhaust Header for 2002-2006 Subaru Impreza WRX/STi Sedan/Wagon 4-Door 2.0L 2.5L

A Header & Up-Pipe Set for the EJ Turbo Exhaust Route

The SPELAB stainless header-and-up-pipe set is intended for compatible US-market 2002–2005 WRX 2.0L, 2006 WRX 2.5L and 2004–2006 WRX STI 2.5L configurations. The mirror-polished EJ turbo set combines a dual-bank tubular header, separate up-pipe and joint accessories. Fitment of the complete engine-to-turbo route depends on the actual sump, oil cooler, turbo flange and required equipment.

Best For

• Replacing a diagnosed header or up-pipe leak: the EJ turbo header-and-up-pipe set allows the hot-side joints and seals to be planned together.
• Refreshing a compatible EJ turbo setup: the EJ turbo set requires matching engine flanges and a compatible route to the turbocharger inlet.
• Planning around existing engine hardware: the EJ header-and-up-pipe set requires assessment of the installed oil pan, cooler and chassis clearance before purchase.

From Both Cylinder Banks to the Turbo

The EJ turbo header joins both cylinder banks at a shared outlet, and the set’s separate up-pipe continues to the turbocharger turbine inlet. The header-and-up-pipe set forms the pre-turbo exhaust route, not the downpipe route after the turbine.

Power, spool behavior and sound with the EJ header-and-up-pipe set depend on the complete engine, turbo and calibration. The header’s runner appearance alone does not establish exact equal length, a guaranteed rumble or a measured power gain.

Specs

What’s Included

Check the Installation section for vehicle-side seals, fasteners and connections that may need to be retained or renewed.

Vehicle & Engine Fitment

The EJ header-and-up-pipe set’s application groups describe the specified US-market configurations, not both engine sizes in every year or an STI wagon application. Compatibility with non-turbo Impreza, other-market STI 2.0L variants, twin-scroll or relocated-turbo conversions and other Subaru models requires separate confirmation.

Before You Order & Install

• Oil pan and cooler: the EJ header runner route must be compared with the installed sump shape, oil pickup arrangement, oil filter and cooler. Any necessary supporting parts must be identified before purchase; another header design’s required oil-system changes do not establish the same requirements for this set.
• Turbo and up-pipe: the EJ set’s up-pipe must match the actual turbine-inlet flange, mounting points and header joint. Single-scroll and other turbo arrangements require identification before fitting, with no installation strain placed on the turbo or its lines.
• Required catalysts and sensors: the EJ header-and-up-pipe installation must retain the actual model year’s required hot-side equipment, oxygen and exhaust-temperature sensors and wiring. Compatibility of those components must be established before fitting the set.
• Chassis and heat: the EJ header-and-up-pipe route requires trial-fitting around the crossmember, subframe, steering and nearby lines. Heat protection and access must be checked without assuming that chassis cutting is necessary or authorized.
• Seals and hardware: every gasket, clamp and fastener in the EJ header-and-up-pipe set must match its actual joint. The pictured accessory groupings do not establish a complete set of vehicle-side nuts, studs or supports.
• Intended use: the EJ header-and-up-pipe installation must retain all required catalysts, sensors and auxiliary equipment and meet applicable noise and emissions requirements. The product name does not establish road-use certification or inspection compliance for this set.

Will the ECU Need Tuning?

ECU tuning requirements for the EJ header-and-up-pipe set depend on the actual engine, sensor arrangement and complete exhaust and require a qualified technician’s assessment. No product-specific calibration data establishes that tuning is always required or always unnecessary for this set. Exhaust leaks, sensor faults and warning lights require diagnosis first; calibration cannot correct incompatible joints, poor clearance or missing required emissions equipment.

Installation Overview

This is a general installation overview. Follow the service procedure for the actual vehicle and complete the configuration and connection checks above. Professional installation is recommended.

1. Confirm the configuration and parts. Confirm the market, engine year, turbo and sump configuration. Lay out the header, up-pipe and accessories and compare every required hot-side interface.
2. Cool and support the vehicle. Allow the engine and exhaust to cool completely. Use the correct lifting procedure with a suitable lift or rated stands on a firm level surface; never work beneath a vehicle supported only by a jack.
3. Record connections and remove the original assembly. Document sensors, turbo supports, heat shields and nearby oil/coolant lines. Support affected exhaust components and follow the exact vehicle procedure for removing the original hot-side assembly.
4. Prepare the joints. Inspect threads, mating surfaces, supports and retained pipes. Address damaged fasteners and clean sealing faces carefully. Match the appropriate seal and hardware to every joint.
5. Trial-fit the complete route. Fit the bank flanges and up-pipe loosely. Check oil pan, cooler, subframe and turbo alignment, allowing joints to sit flat without loading the turbo or its lines.
6. Secure and restore connections. Tighten with the applicable service and component requirements. Restore all required equipment, sensor wiring, turbo supports and heat protection.
7. Check sealing and operation. Run the engine in a well-ventilated area and inspect for leaks, contact, abnormal sound and warning lights. Investigate faults before use and recheck the cooled assembly as required by the applicable service procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the separate pipe a downpipe?

The separate pipe supplied with the EJ turbo header set is an up-pipe connecting the header route to the turbocharger inlet. A downpipe is a different component that carries exhaust away from the turbine outlet.

Does every 2002–2006 WRX or STI use either engine size?

The EJ header-and-up-pipe set does not cover both engine sizes in every 2002–2006 WRX or STI. Its stated US-market scope covers 2002–2005 WRX 2.0L, 2006 WRX 2.5L and 2004–2006 STI 2.5L sedans.

Will I need a different oil pan or oil cooler?

Oil-pan or oil-cooler changes for the EJ header-and-up-pipe set cannot be determined without comparing the installed engine hardware with the complete assembly. Requirements published for another header do not establish the changes needed for this set.

Is this also for a non-turbo Impreza?

The EJ turbo header-and-up-pipe set has no established non-turbo Impreza application. The set’s engine-to-turbo route differs from a naturally aspirated front-exhaust arrangement.

Will the set preserve all original catalysts and sensors?

Retention of all original required catalysts and sensors with the EJ header-and-up-pipe set must be established for the exact model year and configuration. Every required equipment connection and sensor interface must match before purchase; the set does not establish universal emissions compatibility.

Warranty & Customer Support

A one-year limited warranty from delivery covers qualifying material and workmanship defects under normal use for the original purchaser. Proof of purchase is required. Improper installation, alteration and modification are excluded, as are installation and removal labor costs.

Returns within 30 days are subject to product condition and the applicable shipping terms. Read the Warranty & Return Policy for eligibility and claim procedures.

For fitment questions or an order issue, email service@spelabautoparts.com or call +1 888 301 8666. Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM EDT. Share your vehicle year, model, engine, chosen style and relevant photos; include the order number for an existing purchase.