CUSTOM ENGINE BUILDS

Why should I build a custom Subaru Engine for my car?​


Building a custom Subaru engine is like giving your car a high-performance makeover that goes beyond the factory specs. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

First off, there’s the performance boost. A custom engine lets you fine-tune your ride to meet your exact needs. Whether you're after more horsepower, better torque, or quicker acceleration, you can select high-performance components like high-flow cylinder heads, performance camshafts, and turbochargers to get your engine to deliver the goods.

Then there’s reliability. Custom engines are often built with top-notch parts designed to handle the rigors of high-performance driving. This means you’re looking at a more durable engine that stands up to the demands of spirited driving far better than a stock setup.

Personalization is another major perk. Building a custom engine lets you make your Subaru uniquely yours. Choose the components and modifications that reflect your driving style and preferences, resulting in a car that's not just fast, but a true extension of you.

Cost-effectiveness can also play a role. While a custom engine build can be a significant investment, it might end up being more cost-effective in the long run. By selecting only the parts you need and avoiding unnecessary upgrades, you can achieve impressive performance without blowing your budget.

However, building a custom engine is no small feat. It requires meticulous planning, specialized knowledge, and technical expertise. Unless you have the skills to tackle this yourself, it’s wise to enlist a seasoned engine builder. At Lambda, we’ve got a track record of building custom engines that continue to perform brilliantly on the road.

What To Expect at Lambda

Step 1. Determine Your Goals

Before diving into the build, you need to pinpoint what you want to achieve. Are you after more power, improved fuel efficiency, or enhanced reliability? Your goals will guide every decision in your engine build.

Step 2. Research

With your goals in mind, we’ll research and select the right components. Building a high-performance engine requires careful consideration of parts like the engine block, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, and cylinder heads. Supporting components such as intake systems, exhausts, and turbochargers also come into play. We ensure that all parts work in harmony to deliver peak performance.

Step 3. Assembly

Once we’ve sourced the parts, assembly begins. This step is crucial for achieving the performance and reliability you’re after. In our clean and temperature  controlled environment we assemble rotating assemblies, set ring gaps, and adjust valve clearances to suit your specific project — each task is performed with precision.

Step 4. ECU Calibration (Tuning)

After assembly, we turn to engine tuning to optimize performance. Calibration adjusts parameters like fuel delivery and ignition timing to ensure your engine runs smoothly and reliably while maximizing power output. For more details, check out our ECU Calibration (Tuning) page.

Step 5. Engine Break-In

Proper break-in is essential for long-term performance and durability. During this phase, we gradually increase engine speed and load, allowing components to settle and wear in correctly. We use Motul break-in motor oil to help with this process.

Step 6. Maintenance

A custom engine demands regular maintenance to stay in top shape. Adhering to a recommended maintenance schedule and keeping an eye on component wear is crucial for maintaining performance and longevity. For more on how to keep your engine in prime condition, explore our Maintenance Services.

Learn more about all of our Maintenance Services


Building a custom Subaru engine with Lambda means transforming your vehicle into a high-performance machine that’s uniquely tailored to you. 

Let us handle the details, and you’ll be enjoying a ride that’s as powerful as it is personalized.

​Dreaming of a Custom Engine Build? 

Get in touch and tell us about your goals!