How to Replace Rear Brake Pads & Rotors 04-09 Subaru Outback
Difficulty: Advanced · About 100 min · Subaru Outback
Replace the rear brake pads and rotors on a 2004-2009 Subaru Outback.
Tools you will need
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- Ratchet
- 14mm socket
- 19mm socket
- Flat blade screwdriver
- Wire brush
- Brake parts cleaner
- Large C-clamp
- Anti-seize grease
- Torque wrench
Parts and supplies
- Rear brake pads
- Rear brake rotors
Steps
- Remove the wheel
Loosen the lug nuts with the car on the ground, then raise and support it and pull the wheel.
- Remove the old pads and rotor
Remove the 14mm caliper bolts, push the pistons back into the caliper with a screwdriver, swing the caliper aside, pry off the old pads, then remove the 14mm caliper bracket bolts and pull the rotor off.
- Clean everything before fitting new parts
Scrub the pad slides with a wire brush, grease the caliper slides, then clean both faces of the new rotor with brake cleaner.
- Install the new rotor and pads
Seat the new rotor, refit the bracket and torque its bolts to about 47 ft-lb, then compress the new pistons with a C-clamp against an old pad, grease the new pads' tabs, seat them in the bracket, refit the caliper, and torque its bolts to about 19 ft-lb.
- Reinstall the wheel
Torque the lug nuts to about 90 ft-lb in a crossing pattern.
- Test the brakes before driving normally
Pump the pedal until firm, test stopping gently at 5 and 10 mph, then road test.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.