[alep85]

Hi guys, I'm considering a FMIC upgrade and was curious which intercooler you all prefer that utilizes the stock connection points.

From my research, it looks like Wagner EVO 1 and Mishimoto are both options with decent reviews. I actually had a Mishimoto one I tried to install, but it had the drivers' side connection defect that seems to plague some of these and I'm having to return it. Curious if the Wagners suffer from the same issue or if they're better made.

Yes, I know the stock connections don't give as optimal flow as cutting them and using aftermarket, but i would like to make sure this mod is fully reversible in case I sell the car down the road without replacing the pipes + I'm only planning on a stage 1/1+ MHD tune at max since this is a daily-driven car that I plan on keeping for several more years.

Curious what you all prefer, thanks!

[Welcome to NBA Jam]

Good choice. If I had to to it again I'd go with stock connections. I had a bear of a time getting my VRSF FMIC connections to sit solidly and not leak. Can't beat the price to performance ratio, but you might pay for it in the install.

You can't go wrong with the Wagner. I'd go for it.

Vendors like to sell you on better flow and whatnot. The reality is, if you're a daily driver and drove two identical cars back-to-back, one with an FMIC with OE connections and one with larger high-flow connections, you'd never tell the difference. But you definitely will when you're installing it.

[-JrHatch-]

In my experience stock connection is the way to go. Had a 5in vrsf on my old N54 and stage 2 to 2+ felt no different, if anything it was more laggy. Recently put a CSF intercooler in my n55 and stage 2 to 2+ feels like a totally different car, improved power even in low end. Just my experience, but super happy with the CSF and would recommend it.

[mike@x-ph.com]

Wagner EVO I

[CoffeeBean]

ARM is another good and inexpensive choice with OEM connections. I have it- easy to install and works well.

https://www.armmotorsports.com/colle...tercooler-fmic

[Turbod]

Something else to consider, I have not input on stock connection intercoolers, is that you can get aftermarket piping that allow you to keep your stock pipes intact. VRSF offers lower chargepipe upgrades and ER as well as VRSF offer turbo outlet pipes. Then you're not limited to one with stock connections and can return it to stock later.

[andreu12qw]

I have the wagner FMIC. Easy install, matte black (looks awesome in my opinion as it blends in) and easy maintenance when working in that area, i.e. removal and re-install.

[Jeff@TopGearSolutions]

Evolution Racewerks, Wagner, VRSF, CSF all good popular options.

[skaper]

Swapped my Active Autowerke for the Wagner and am incredibly happy. It was a tight fit but fits.

[mike@x-ph.com]

Originally Posted by skaper

Swapped my Active Autowerke for the Wagner and am incredibly happy. It was a tight fit but fits.

Congrats