How to Replace Rear Brakes 2010-2014 Subaru Outback
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 90 min · Subaru Outback
Replace rear pads and rotors on a 2010–2014 Subaru Outback after confirming the brake and parking-brake configuration. Support the vehicle securely and use the specified torque values for the exact model year and trim.
Tools you will need
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- Wheel chocks
- 14mm and 19mm sockets
- 10mm wrench
- Torque wrench
- Brake caliper hanger
- Correct caliper piston tool
- Wire brush
- Brake cleaner
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Parts and supplies
- Rear brake pads matched to the vehicle
- Rear brake rotors matched to the vehicle
- Pad hardware if required
- Brake lubricant for approved contact points
Steps
Confirm the rear brake setup
Check the VIN-specific parts and service information to confirm the rear caliper, rotor, and parking-brake design. Park on level ground, chock the front wheels, and loosen the rear lug nuts before lifting.
Raise and remove the wheels
Lift the rear at the approved points and support it on jack stands. Release the parking brake only when the vehicle is secured, then remove the rear wheels and compare the new pads and rotors with the parts on the car.
Remove the caliper and pads
Remove the caliper fasteners and lift the caliper away from the rotor. Support it with a hanger so the hose is not strained, then remove the pads and note each shim and wear indicator's position.
Remove the bracket and rotor
Remove the caliper bracket and slide the rotor off. If corrosion holds it, use the rotor's threaded removal holes if equipped or tap the hat gently; avoid damaging the parking-brake shoes inside the rotor hat.
Clean and inspect the assembly
Clean the hub face and inspect the parking-brake shoes, caliper slides, boots, and hose. Replace damaged hardware and keep lubricant off the rotor and pad friction surfaces.
Install new friction parts
Seat the new rotor flat on the hub and reinstall the bracket to the vehicle specification. Install the pads and hardware in the correct positions, then retract the piston with the proper tool while watching the brake-fluid reservoir.
Reassemble and verify
Reinstall the caliper, torque its fasteners and the wheel nuts to the vehicle's specifications, then lower the Outback. Pump the brake pedal until firm, check the fluid level, and perform a cautious low-speed brake test.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.