Do I need a tune for an intake system on the VB?

The most repeated answer across forums is: if you change airflow in a meaningful way, plan on a tune. Owners repeatedly group intakes, intercoolers, and most power-oriented airflow mods into the “don’t do this untuned” category, while cat-backs, axle-backs, wheels, and most cosmetics are usually seen as safe without tuning. Even where a manufacturer markets an intake as “no tune required,” the forum consensus is cautious: most experienced owners still recommend tuning because the WRX is sensitive to airflow changes and people would rather be conservative than gamble on drivability, knock behavior, or warranty headaches. If you want the lowest-risk path, keep the engine-side airflow stock until you are ready to tune. However, for a direct drop in filter such as the Grimmspeed Drycon a tune is not needed.