2015-2020 Subaru WRX Front Brakes Pads & Rotors | How to change

Published on March 14, 2020
Duration: 12:40

This guide details the process of replacing front brake pads and rotors on a 2015-2020 Subaru WRX. It covers removing the caliper and bracket, dealing with stuck rotors, compressing pistons, installing new pads and rotors, and reassembling the brake system. The instructor emphasizes proper torque specifications and the importance of rebuilding brake pedal pressure after the job.

Quick Summary

After replacing brake pads and rotors on a 2015-2020 Subaru WRX, it's crucial to rebuild brake pedal pressure by slowly pumping the pedal multiple times until it feels firm. This restores hydraulic function and ensures safe braking. Avoid pushing the pedal more than halfway down initially to prevent potential safety system engagement.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Vehicle
  2. 00:34Loosening Lug Nuts & Securing Vehicle
  3. 00:46Removing Wheel & Caliper (Pads Only)
  4. 01:03Removing Caliper Assembly & Bracket (Pads & Rotors)
  5. 01:19Removing Mounting Bolts
  6. 01:38Removing Old Rotor
  7. 02:24Dealing with Stuck Rotor
  8. 02:42New Rotor Orientation
  9. 02:53Cleaning New Rotors
  10. 03:17Removing Old Brake Pads
  11. 03:45Compressing Caliper Pistons
  12. 04:21Opening Brake Fluid Reservoir
  13. 04:44Brake Pad Hardware
  14. 05:15Identifying Pad Wear Indicators (Squealers)
  15. 05:41Installing New Pads
  16. 06:56Adjusting Hardware for Pad Fit
  17. 07:19Installing Second Pad
  18. 07:34Calibrating Caliper Bracket
  19. 07:52Important: Don't Touch Pad/Rotor Surfaces
  20. 08:08Wiggling Caliper Assembly
  21. 08:13Fitting Caliper Over Rotor
  22. 08:46Removing Block & Finalizing Rotor Fit
  23. 08:55Lubricating Pins (Optional)
  24. 09:11Torque Specifications
  25. 09:30Remounting Wheel & Lug Nut Torque
  26. 10:34Final Checks & Brake Pedal Rebuild
  27. 10:50Why Rebuild Pedal Pressure
  28. 11:31How to Rebuild Pedal Pressure
  29. 11:55Pedal Firmness Achieved
  30. 12:25Final Safety Reminder

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the torque specifications for the caliper bolts on a 2015-2020 Subaru WRX brake job?

For a 2015-2020 Subaru WRX brake replacement, the caliper guide pin bolts should be torqued to approximately 20 foot-pounds, and the caliper mounting bolts require a torque of 59 foot-pounds.

How do you properly torque lug nuts when reinstalling a wheel after a brake job?

When reinstalling a wheel, torque lug nuts in three stages using a star pattern. For instance, if the final torque is 90 ft-lbs, apply 30 ft-lbs, then 60 ft-lbs, and finally 90 ft-lbs to ensure the wheel is seated evenly and prevent rotor warping.

Why is it important to pump the brake pedal after changing brake pads and rotors?

Pumping the brake pedal after a brake job rebuilds hydraulic pressure in the system. This is necessary because compressing the caliper pistons pushes brake fluid back into the reservoir, and the pedal will feel soft or go to the floor until pressure is restored.

What should you do if a brake rotor is stuck on the hub?

If a brake rotor is stuck, try applying a penetrating oil like PB Blaster around the hub. You can also use a hammer to gently tap around the rotor hat or, if the threads are intact, use a screw in the designated holes to push the rotor off the hub.

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