How To Install New Subaru Brake Pads

As a Subaru owner, you know how important it is to keep your vehicle in good working condition. One of the most crucial aspects of vehicle maintenance is ensuring that your brakes are functioning properly. Your brakes are the most important safety feature on your vehicle, and you should never neglect them. If you are experiencing any issues with your Subaru's brakes, one of the first things you should check is the condition of your brake pads. In this article, I will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to install new brake pads on your Subaru.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you begin, you will need to gather all the necessary tools and materials. You will need a jack and jack stands, a lug wrench, a C-clamp, a flathead screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a set of new brake pads. It is also a good idea to have a brake cleaner and a tube of anti-seize lubricant on hand.

Step 2: Remove the Wheels

To access the brakes, you will need to remove the wheels. Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts, but do not remove them yet. Jack up the vehicle using the designated jacking points and secure it with jack stands.

Step 3: Remove the Brake Caliper

Locate the brake caliper and remove the bolts that hold it in place using the appropriate socket or wrench. Once the bolts are removed, slide the caliper off the rotor. Be careful not to damage the brake line.

Step 4: Remove the Old Brake Pads

Using a pair of pliers or a flathead screwdriver, remove the old brake pads from the caliper. Be careful not to damage the caliper or the brake rotor.

Step 5: Install the New Brake Pads

Insert the new brake pads into the caliper, making sure that the wear indicator is facing upward. If you are installing ceramic brake pads, apply a thin layer of anti-seize lubricant to the back of the pad.

Step 6: Compress the Caliper Piston

Before you can reattach the caliper, you need to compress the caliper piston. To do this, place a C-clamp over the caliper and the outer brake pad. Tighten the clamp until the caliper piston is fully compressed.

Step 7: Reattach the Caliper

Slide the caliper back onto the rotor and secure it in place with the bolts you removed earlier. Make sure the bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.

Step 8: Repeat the Process

Repeat steps 3-7 for the other brake pads on the vehicle.

Step 9: Reinstall the Wheels

Once all the new brake pads are installed, it is time to put the wheels back on the vehicle. Tighten the lug nuts by hand and then lower the vehicle to the ground. Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.

Step 10: Test Your Brakes

Before you drive your vehicle, test your brakes to make sure they are working properly. Pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure that the caliper piston has moved back into position. Then, take your vehicle for a short test drive to make sure the brakes are functioning correctly.

Installing new brake pads on your Subaru is a relatively simple process that can save you money on labor costs. However, it is essential to make sure that you are comfortable with the process before attempting it. If you are not confident in your ability to perform this task, it is best to seek the assistance of a professional mechanic. Remember, your brakes are a critical safety feature, and you should never compromise on their quality or maintenance. With proper care and attention, your Subaru's brakes can last for many years, providing you with safe and reliable transportation.

In addition to installing new brake pads, it is also essential to keep your brake system clean and well-maintained. Regularly inspect your brake lines, brake fluid, and brake rotors for signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, have them addressed immediately by a qualified mechanic.