The stock oil pickup tube on the Subaru EJ25 motor is known to break — see example photos on this page — which can lead to oil starvation and catastrophic engine failure. This, as we say in the industry, is a Bad Thing. As of this writing, we know of at least 25 instances of this problem, and we encounter more all the time.
The problem with the OEM part seems to be that flux from the original factory braise joint was not cleaned off properly from the joint, and the flux corrodes the steel, leading to cracking of the pipe. Once the tube breaks, oil can no longer be drawn up into the engine…and it’s all over.
The Ultimate Oil Pickup is a clean-sheet design that is braced for maximum strength and durability. It features all-new construction, including TWO cross braces instead of the factory’s one, and metal that is THREE TIMES the thickness of the stock pickup.
Sure, this part isn’t cheap, but replacing a seized engine costs THOUSANDS of dollars. We don’t like the idea of playing Russian roulette with a motor.
DISCLAIMER: We think this is a pickup tube that won’t crack off and leave you stranded, and since it’s made using the stock pickup, it should function just the same. But we make no claims about its suitability for any purpose. USE AT YOUR OWN RISK. We warranty the pickup tube part ONLY. We do not take responsibility for the safety of your motor. If you don’t feel comfortable with the above, please do not buy this part.
This Ultimate Oil Pickup is our recommendation for street cars. For track or very-high-horsepower cars we also offer the High Flow Ultimate Oil Pickup.
For additional peace of mind for cars that are driven on track or other high-load situations, you can choose to add a Killer B oil baffle to your oil pickup purchase. Save money compared to buying the baffle separately!
This EJ25 pickup fits all 2004-2021 2.5 Subaru WRX/STI EJ25 engines, 2006-2009 Legacy GT, and 2006-2013 Forester XT. May fit other EJ25 cars, too, but you’ll need an oil pan deep enough to clear. The 11109AA151 pan will work.