Replacing 2020 Subaru Outback rear brake pads. #subaru #outback #brakes

Introduction

This tutorial guides you through the process of replacing the rear brake pads on a 2020 Subaru Outback. Regular maintenance of your brake system is crucial for safe driving, and this step-by-step guide will help you perform the task efficiently.

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

• Ensure Safety:
  • Park your vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
  • Place a wheel chuck in front of the front tires to prevent rolling.
• Loosen Lug Nuts:
  • Using a lug wrench, loosen all lug nuts on the rear wheel but do not remove them completely yet.

Step 2: Jack Up the Vehicle

• Lift the Vehicle:
  • Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle.
  • Secure it with jack stands for safety.
• Remove the Wheel:
  • Finish removing the loosened lug nuts and take the wheel off to access the brake assembly.

Step 3: Remove the Caliper

• Remove Caps:
  • Locate and gently pry off the two caps on the back of the caliper.
• Unscrew Caliper Bolts:
  • Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts securing the caliper.
  • Be cautious as the caliper may be heavy.
• Disconnect Electronic Parking Brake:
  • Press the release tab on the electronic parking brake connector, wiggle it gently to disconnect.
  • If it's stuck, use a flathead screwdriver to help loosen it.

Step 4: Remove Old Brake Pads

• Take Out the Caliper:
  • Hang the caliper using an S hook or similar tool to avoid straining the brake line.
• Remove Brake Pads:
  • Observe the orientation of the old pads for proper installation of the new ones.
  • Note that the inside pad usually has a spring.

Step 5: Prepare for New Brake Pads

• Clean the Brake Components:
  • Use brake cleaner on the rotors to remove debris and dust.
• Compress the Piston:
  • Open the brake fluid cap under the hood to relieve pressure.
  • Use a brake caliper tool to compress the piston back into the caliper housing. Ensure it moves smoothly; if it's hard to turn, consult a professional.

Step 6: Install New Brake Pads

• Apply Lubrication:
  • Apply a small amount of lubricant to the contact points of the new brake pads (avoid the pad surface and rotor).
• Insert New Pads:
  • Slide the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they fit snugly and correctly.

Step 7: Reattach the Caliper

• Align Caliper:
  • Carefully slide the caliper back over the new pads, ensuring the holes align with the bolts.
• Tighten Bolts:
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the caliper bolts to 19.9 foot-pounds.
• Reconnect Electronic Parking Brake:
  • Push the connector back until you hear a click.

Step 8: Replace Wheel and Final Checks

• Reinstall Wheel:
  • Place the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the Vehicle:
  • Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.
• Tighten Lug Nuts:
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to 89 foot-pounds in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced the rear brake pads on your 2020 Subaru Outback. Regularly inspect and maintain your brake system to ensure optimal performance and safety. If you encounter any issues during this process, consider consulting a professional mechanic for assistance. Happy driving!