Now that summer is approaching, we are going to talk about Radiator Shrouds, or Radiator Show Plates. We carry these in abundance as they are one of the most demanding engine bay upgrades from an aesthetic point of view, and chances are, you more than likely already have one if you’re an enthusiast. However, if you don’t, here are some great reasons as to why you should get one, and why they are very effective.

PERRIN Radiator Shroud Neon Yellow 2015-2021 WRX/STI

 

 

THE DESIGN

On a surface level, a radiator shroud looks like it has been designed to cover the area between your bumper and your radiator. Which yes, it does indeed do that. But let’s talk about the purpose of a radiator shroud. In every single front-engine gas combustion car, there is always an opening on the front bumper. Trucks do this through their large grills. This design obviously is to let air hit the surface of the radiator so it can cool the water/coolant to make sure your engine does not overheat. Fans are in place to keep the coolant temps in range while the car is stationary, or when outside temps hit triple digits, and your coolant temps want to go beyond 190° F.

Typically, while in motion, the air that hits the surface of the radiator will naturally deflect. Like getting your hair dryer and blowing air against a wall. The air will deflect in all different directions. The purpose of a radiator shroud is to reduce air deflection by channeling as much air to the face of your radiator to improve the overall cooling efficiency while in movement.

And if you track your Subaru, this is a must-have upgrade as coolant temps will rise above 200°F because your engine lives at full boost and at red line.

COBB Tuning Aluminum Radiator Shroud 2015-2021 WRX/STI

 

 

IMPROVES THE LOOKS OF THE ENGINE BAY

APR Performance Cooling Shroud and Air Intake Enhancement Kie 2022-2024 WRX

Because otherwise, you do have that gap in the engine bay between your radiator and your front bumper which on older Subaru models is just a space where your AC lines are, horns, and areas where you could drop your tools during maintenance.

From the variety of examples that we carry, you will notice that there are many different powder-coated units to suit the overall theme of your engine bay, and for the example above, there are also units in carbon fiber which make for a great mod for those of you with dedicated show cars, and like to pop the hood at your local meets.

 

 

HAS OTHER GREAT USES

Aside from the main function, which is to improve the cooling efficiency, there is another great use for radiator shrouds, and that is to have a proper place to set your tools for those of you who like to perform your own maintenance. If you are changing your oil, taking on the challenge of changing the spark plugs, or any repairs or upgrades where you have multiple sockets, a fan shroud is a good place to put tools. Along with an aftermarket alternator cover as well.

GrimmSpeed Radiator Shroud w/Tool Tray 2002-2007 WRX/STI

 

 

EASE OF INSTALLATION

One of the key reasons why radiator shrouds are so popular among the Subaru crowd is the ease of installation. Now depending on the model such as 2015-2021 WRX/STI models will be a little more involved, but still. With basic tools and some mechanical includability, you can install one of these yourselves. 

 

 

WE HAVE EXAMPLES THAT ARE ALSO A LITTLE MORE COMPLEX

Compressive Tuning Smart Flow Radiator Shroud 2015-2021 WRX/STI

 

For example, we have this Compressive Tuning unit made for 2015-2021 WRX and STI models that not only improves the cooling efficiency to your radiator, but it has an integrated duct that channels cooler air into your OEM intake scoop that can be used with many aftermarket cold air intake systems. So, it’s a little more versatile in terms of performance but not so much room to place tools when performing maintenance. But a great cooling upgrade for the price. Speaking of which:

 

 

AFFORDABILITY

Trails By GrimmSpeed Radiator Shroud 2018-2021 Crosstrek

We carry a handful of examples that are under $100. So, if you need to keep your modding budget on the tight side, this would be an excellent upgrade. Or if you’re shopping for the Subaru enthusiast in your life but don’t want to spend too much money, this is the perfect gift. It’s something that they should appreciate, and if they don’t then you better question that relationship. But for mods under $100, a good radiator shroud is hard to beat.

 

 

FINAL WORD: DO IT, MAN

PERRIN Performance Radiator Shroud 2002-2007 Subaru WRX/STI

Now let’s review. You get the cooling benefits, you get improved looks in the engine bay, it provides a place to set your tools during maintenance, and overall, they are affordable. What’s not to like? Now again, for those of you who may have purchased a used Subaru from another enthusiast, 9/10 times they will have an aftermarket radiator shroud installed. However, if they don’t, now is your chance get the radiator shroud that you think best suits your engine and your performance.

 

 

CLICK HERE FOR ALL RADIATOR SHROUDS