How to Replace Subaru Legacy Brake Pads

The Subaru Legacy is controlled through the use of disc brakes on the front of the vehicle. Brake pads should be changed routinely in order to avoid damage to the rotors and calipers or other components of the brake system. If your brakes are starting to grind or squeal, it is likely time to change the brake pads on your Legacy.

Things You Will Need:

• Replacement brake pads


• Car jack


• Jack stand


• Torque wrench


• Socket set


• Lug wrench


• C-clamp

1. Use the car jack in order to raise the front of the vehicle. Secure the vehicle by placing jack stands under the frame in the front of the Legacy.


2. Remove the front wheels and tires. Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts that hold the front wheels on the Subaru's axles. Once the nuts are removed, pull the wheels off of the lug studs.


3. Place the C-clamp over the caliper. The bottom of the C-clamp should be placed on the inboard side of the caliper. The top of the C-clamp should be placed on the rear side of the outboard brake pad. Close the C-clamp securely. This will drive the piston into the caliper.


4. Use a socket wrench to loosen the two bolts that hold the calipers onto their mounting brackets. Once the calipers are lose, lift them up and pull them away from the brake disc. You will now have access to the brake pads.


5. Note the position and location of the retaining clips and backing plates before removing the brake pads. Use your hands to pull the brake pads from their mounting brackets.


6. Obtain your new brake pads and place them into position on the mounting brackets. Be careful to place the backing plates and retaining clips in the proper position.


7. Place the brake caliper back into position and tighten the two bolts that hold it in place on the mounting bracket. Use a torque wrench to tighten them properly. They should be tightened to a minimum torque of 25 pounds.


8. Replace the wheels on your Legacy. Slide the wheels back onto the lug studs and replace the lug nuts. Do not over-tighten the lug nuts.


9. Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle. Finish securing the lug nuts on both front wheels.


10. Start the engine of your Legacy and push the brake pedal a few times in order to place the piston back into its proper position within the caliper.