How do you replace front rotors on a 99 outback?

Answer 1

This procedure should be useful for the front rotors and brake pads on ANY modern car, not just Subarus. Most cars are very similar in that the rotor is held on by the wheel.

I could not find how to do this on the internet so I just "discovered" it myself by doing on my 2001 Outback.

Allow about 1 hour per wheel in case of stuck nuts, etc.

1. With a lug wrench, slightly loosen the wheel nuts on one of the front wheels.

2. Set the hand brake and jack up (under the A-frame) that wheel until the tire is off the ground.

3. Remove the wheel nuts and then remove the wheel.

4. Now is a good time to put a block of wood under the A-frame for safety.

5. Locate the 2 bolts that hold the Caliper in place. In many Subarus these are 14mm.

6. Remove these bolts and lift the Caliper away from the disc. Note that it is still attached by the hydraulic hose and you don't want to stress the hose. So place the caliper on a small box, 2x4 or something that supports it (back in the wheel well).

7. Now locate the 2 larger bolts that hold the caliper mounting frame. In many Subarus these are 17mm bolts. Remove them and lift out the caliper frame.

8. The rotor disc is now free but is most likely rusted in place. Use a hammer to tap on the rear of the disc, forcing it away from the hub, outward towards you.

9. Remove the disc. Clean up the disc seat area with a wire brush. Apply a little oil.

10. Install the new disc rotor and temporarily put on the bottom wheel nut to hold in place.

11. Replace the caliper frame and bolt in place.

12. Use a large C-clamp to push in the piston(s) of the brake cylinder enough to accomodate the new pads and rotor.

13. Install the new brake pads into the Caliper and slide over the disc. Align the bolt holes and replace the 2 Caliper mounting bolts. Tighten all bolts securely.

14. Replace the wheel, tighten as much as possible, let down the jack and tighten the wheel nuts more.

15. Repeat with opposite wheel.

It is really pretty easy, don't let all the steps throw you. When you are all done start the car and pump the brake pedal a few times to bring the pedal travel back to normal. Try not to use the brakes very hard for the first few miles of driving to let them seat in nicely.