There is nothing wrong with the COBB "SF" short ram intake for any year or model of Impreza. It is well manufactured, has it's own R&D (it's not just a stolen/copied design), a decent sound, and from what I understand, decent filter element lifespan. I don't know if it is CARB exempt (California Emissions Standard), but it definitely shouldn't void any warranty... I've got a short ram intake as well, on a 2002 WRX sedan, and my extended warranty is still fine. It does depend on the dealership/salesperson. I will warn you, eBay knockoffs do not make friends in the service departments of Subaru dealerships. Stick with reputed brands with quality products, and things will go well. It IS wise to check here and NASIOC, etc., for advice on large purchases. A pound of wisdom and an ounce of gold goes a lot further than a pound of gold and an ounce of wisdom.
The AccessPort has advantages over "Laptop Tuning", failsafe programming in the AccessPort will prevent engine damage in many cases, some reflash programs do not offer any more than a disclaimer "we are not responsible if you torch your car with our device" type of stuff. Cobb also has a customer service department... RomRaider has a forum and a discussion group, etc... but I'd trust the AccessPort a lot further on a new car.
Some Subaru dealers have accounts with Cobb, and offer AccessPorts as aftermarket accessories right on the sales floor, along with tuning software services and some parts upgrades like exhaust and intake, shifter assemblies... ask your dealership's sales crew when a few salespeople are gathered. The group enthusiasm will help. Individually, salespeople may be shy about it because they know they are setting you up for more power, and older more conservative sellers don't like being responsible for that kind of after-market service since inevitably the increase in power will increase wear on the vehicle. Some dealers will also refuse to install anything that isn't Subaru of America branded with a part number... at which point it is possible to ask for a ProDrive ECU upgrade for about $10K... which will give you everything available with an AccessPort for 20x the cost... though I'm not sure if those upgrades are available on newer models... I know a bugeye can take the PD race ECU as a direct swap... wouldn't mind knowing if that is available for 2011+ STi?
Meanwhile... I am still stoked on the results of the 2010 STi intercooler with Greddy RZ bpv w/ RS hotpipe... silent. Quieter discharge than the stock BPV, even with the short-ram.
Also still using a Hallman remote ceramic MBC. 19psi on a PnP'd stock td04. lol
I am looking into new turbos... Since that's probably going to involve a V mount IC/Rad, I'll be re-installing the Greddy BPV, and will have more pics.
seems pics say a lot.
let's just consider this:
I get full warranty service, and any recall notice is served by our local Subaru dealer without question. The mechanics are all pleased with the upgrades, and no one feels the safety of the car is compromised, if anything, it is safer and more solid than it was from the factory... there ARE bad mods, just read before you wrench, and you will be in great shape.
as for a blow off valve on a Subaru... lol... until you are using a FMIC and are running 24psi, why bother....
WAH
psh.