Subaru engine swaps into Volkswagen platforms have gained significant popularity among builders seeking improved reliability and power output.
The compact, flat design of Subaru engines, combined with their strong after-market support, makes them a practical choice for performance conversions. When properly configured, these drivetrains offer a balance of efficiency, torque, and long-term durability.
However, a successful Subaru-to-VW conversion requires more than just mechanical compatibility. Builders must address critical factors such as transmission configuration, gear rotation, and shifter functionality.
Without the right components in place, even a well-intentioned build can experience premature failure or compromised drivability.
This blog outlines the essential parts required to complete a Subaru-powered VW conversion correctly. Each item listed, provided by Specialised Parts, serves a specific function to enhance system reliability, protect mechanical components, and ensure proper integration.
Dial In The Right Transmission Configuration
Most Subaru transmissions are built for all-wheel drive, which works great in a factory WRX, but not so much in a VW Vanagon or rear-drive kit car. Unless you’re running full-time AWD (which is rare in these builds), you’ll want to convert the transmission to two-wheel drive for simplicity, weight savings, and drivetrain efficiency.
A splined adapter allows you to do this easily, using your existing 5-speed or 6-speed Subaru transmission. It eliminates the rear output, effectively turning your AWD box into a FWD unit, no full transmission swap needed.
Once the AWD system is removed, don’t leave the transmission exposed. An extension housing cap is essential to seal off the open output.
Without this, you’re risking oil leaks, dirt intrusion, and eventual internal damage. Together, the adapter and cap create a clean and reliable two-wheel drive-ready transmission built specifically for Subaru-to-VW applications.
Correct Gear Rotation For Mid-Engine Layouts
One of the trickier issues in these conversions is the rotation direction. When a Subaru drivetrain is placed into a mid-engine configuration, especially in a kit car or sand rail, the gears often end up spinning the wrong way. If left uncorrected, the result is exactly what you think: the car drives backward.
The solution? A reversed ring and pinion gearset designed for your specific layout. Builders running a 2WD mid-engine setup will need a gearset engineered for that orientation. If you’re maintaining an AWD layout but still need reverse rotation, there’s a separate reversed set just for you.
These gearsets are purpose-built and heat-treated for durability. More importantly, they’re not generic. They’re engineered for Subaru-based conversions and tested under real-world loads, ensuring reliability in even the most demanding builds.
Make the Drive Feel Right With A Short Shifter For Your VW Vanagon
Swapping engines is only part of the experience; how it feels to drive matters just as much. One area where many swaps fall short is the shifter. Subaru transmissions tend to have longer, softer throws compared to what VW drivers are used to. This disconnect can make even a well-built car feel sloppy.
A short shifter assembly designed for conversion use drastically improves shift precision in your VW Vanagon with a Subaru 5-speed transmission. It shortens the throw distance, tightens the engagement, and makes gear changes snappier and more intuitive. It’s not just about speed, it’s about control.
For any serious builder, upgrading the shifter should be a priority. After all, it’s the part you interact with most once the build is complete.
Complete Swap Parts Checklist
Below is a quick-reference checklist of the most essential parts for a Subaru-powered VW conversion. Each of these addresses a real-world problem that could otherwise compromise your build.
| Component | Why It Matters |
| Splined AWD-to-2WD Adapter | Converts Subaru transmission for 2WD configurations |
| Transmission Cap | Seals off the open extension housing to prevent leaks and contamination |
| Reversed Ring & Pinion (2WD) | Reverses output direction in mid-engine, 2WD builds |
| Reversed Ring & Pinion (AWD) | Reverses rotation for AWD Subaru conversions |
| 4EAT/5EAT Conversion Kits | Adapts automatic transmissions for reverse, mid-engine setups |
| Short Shifter Assembly for your VW Vanagon with a Subaru 5 speed transmission | Improves shifter feel and gear precision |
About Specialised Parts
At Specialised Parts, we manufacture performance components designed exclusively for Subaru drivetrain swaps into VW vehicles. Our catalogue includes oil pressure kits, reverse gearsets, shifter upgrades, and transmission adapters, all engineered by experts who build and test these parts themselves.
We don’t sell generic auto parts. We serve a focused community of builders who demand precision, longevity, and real-world performance. If you’re planning or upgrading a Subaru-powered VW, reach out to our team today to get expert help and proven parts.
For more information, visit our website.
