Here are some benefits and advantages you can expect (or hope) when installing the SYMS Ram Air Box System (Y2000EG037) on a Toyota GR86 ZN8 / Subaru BRZ ZD8:
What the SYMS Ram Air Box System is
Before going into benefits, here’s what this system claims to do (from product descriptions):
- It replaces the factory airbox and resonator assembly with a carbon fiber airbox + a redesigned duct/air path that maximizes intake duct size within limited space.
- It aims to introduce “ram air” — i.e. taking advantage of the vehicle’s forward motion to force higher-pressure (denser) air into the intake system.
- It is designed to be compatible with the factory ECU tuning (i.e. no mandatory retune) within the correction/flexibility range of the stock ECU.
- It uses carbon (or carbon composite) to combine performance benefits with aesthetic/weight advantages.
Given that, here are the advantages (and caveats) you might see.
Potential Benefits & Advantages
- Increased Airflow / Improved Volumetric Efficiency
- Because the ducting and internal geometry are optimized to reduce airflow restrictions, more air can reach the engine more efficiently.
- The “ram air” effect (at higher speeds) could help slightly increase the density (mass) of intake air, giving a small “boost” effect.
- With more air (if matched with proper fueling), the engine can produce more torque and power, especially in the upper RPM band.
- Better Throttle Response / Reduced Lag
- Because the intake path is more direct / less restrictive, the throttle (and engine) can respond more quickly to changes in load, especially at higher engine speeds.
- Less “intake lag” or delay between throttle input and air arriving in the combustion chambers.
- Aesthetic & Weight Advantages
- The use of carbon fiber material gives a premium look under the hood (carbon weave) which appeals to enthusiasts.
- Carbon fiber (or composite) is typically lighter than stock materials (plastic or metal), so there may be a small weight savings (though likely minor in the broader weight budget).
- Maintains Stock ECU / No Mandatory Retune
- One of its selling points is that it is usable within the correction range of the factory ECU (i.e., you may not need to reprogram or remap to take advantage).
- This means installation is more “bolt-on” friendly and you don’t necessarily have to risk messing with your stock engine calibration.
- Better Sound / Induction Noise
- Many aftermarket intake/ram air systems change the aural character of the engine (more intake “growl” or induction sound). While this is more subjective, it is a benefit some owners seek.
- Because resonators (or factory sound-damping parts) may be replaced or altered, you might hear more of the intake noise. (Note: this is also a potential drawback in noise-sensitive settings.)
Caveats, Limitations & What to Watch Out For
It’s important to temper expectations. Here are things to be cautious about:
- Modest Power Gains: While the claims suggest improvements, the actual horsepower/torque gains are often modest on a normally aspirated (non-forced induction) engine. Many intake upgrades yield small gains (few percent) unless the rest of the system (camshaft, exhaust, tuning) is also upgraded.
- Heat Soak / Intake Temperature: If the airbox is not sufficiently isolated from engine heat or if the ducting allows hot under-hood air ingress, performance could suffer due to warmer intake air. Some “cold air / ram air” designs struggle when the engine bay is hot.
- Speed-Dependent Benefit: The “ram air” effect is more effective at higher speeds. At lower speeds (city driving), the effect is minimal.
- Filter & Maintenance: Aftermarket systems may require more frequent cleaning or servicing of filters.
- Fitment & Packaging Constraints: Because the engine bay space is tight, routing, clearance, and making sure there’s no interference with other parts are critical.
- Warranty / Emissions Compliance: In some jurisdictions, aftermarket intake modifications may affect emissions legality or warranty status (depending on local regulations).
- ECU Limits: Even though it claims compatibility with the stock ECU, the stock engine control unit has limits on how much additional airflow/fuel it can adjust before requiring a reflash or supporting modifications (fuel injectors, etc.).
- Noise / Drone: Some setups may introduce undesirable induction noise or drone under certain RPM loads.
Summary
In summary, installing the SYMS Ram Air Box System (Y2000EG037) on a GR86 / BRZ can give you:
- Better airflow and possibly improved volumetric efficiency
- Slight boost (ram-air effect) at speed
- Quicker throttle response
- Cleaner, premium look with carbon fiber
- Maintainability with stock ECU (no required tune)
- Enhanced induction sound
However, don’t expect huge power leaps without complementary upgrades, and be mindful of intake temperature, fitment, and regulatory/warranty considerations.

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