How Much Do Subaru Brake Pads and Rotors Cost?

AvatarByCarl Frisch

Subaru brake pads and rotors are essential components for maintaining the braking system of a Subaru vehicle. The cost of these parts will vary depending on the type of Subaru vehicle, the quality of the parts, and other factors. Generally speaking, brake pads and rotors for a Subaru car or SUV can cost anywhere from $100 to $400 or more. It is important to note that replacing brake pads and rotors is not a DIY project; they should be replaced by a certified mechanic in order to ensure proper installation and safety.

Cost of Replacing Subaru Brake Pads and Rotors

When it comes to replacing brakes in a Subaru vehicle, there are several factors to consider when it comes to the cost. The average cost for parts and labor to replace brake pads and rotors on a Subaru can vary greatly depending on the type of brake pads, rotors, and other components chosen. The overall cost can range from a few hundred dollars for basic parts up to $1,000 or more for more advanced systems.

Types of Subaru Brake Pads and Rotors

When selecting brake pads and rotors for a Subaru vehicle, there are several types available. Organic brake pads are often the most affordable and offer excellent braking performance. Metallic brake pads offer superior durability but tend to be louder than organic pads. Ceramic brake pads provide excellent stopping power with minimal noise but tend to be more expensive than both organic and metallic brake pads. Drilled and slotted rotors provide extra cooling benefits while improving braking performance, but they can also be quite pricey.

Benefits of Installing New Brake Pads And Rotors for Subaru Cars

Installing new brake pads and rotors on a Subaru vehicle is an excellent way to improve overall performance. Newer brakes provide better stopping power which helps with safety on the road. Additionally, newer brakes reduce vibration levels as well as noise levels which makes driving more enjoyable. Finally, having new brakes installed can improve fuel economy as well because less energy is lost when braking due to improved stopping power.

How To Tell When You Need To Replace Your Subaru’s Brake Pads or Rotors?

In order to know when you need to replace your Subaru’s brakes, there are two main methods you can use: checking the thickness of the brakes or listening for noises while braking. Checking the thickness of your brakes requires removing them from the vehicle so that they can be properly measured; if the thickness is below manufacturer specifications then it is time for replacement. Alternatively, if you hear strange noises coming from your brakes while driving then it is likely time for replacement as well as these noises indicate wear on your current brakes that needs resolving quickly before further damage occurs.

How Often Should You Change Subaru’s Brakes?

The frequency at which you should change your Subaru’s brakes will depend largely on how often you drive and how hard you use your brakes during those drives; however, in general most manufacturers recommend changing out your brake pads every 25-50 thousand miles or so depending on usage habits. It is also important to check in with a qualified mechanic regularly so that they can inspect your brakes even if they don’t need replacing right away; this helps ensure that any problems that may arise will be caught early before they become major issues down the line.

DIY Guide: Replacing Your Subaru’s Brakes Yourself

Doing your own brake replacement can be a great way to save money and time on your vehicle maintenance. Fortunately, replacing brake pads and rotors on your Subaru is a relatively simple process that can be completed with basic tools in an afternoon. In this guide, we’ll go over the tools and steps needed to perform the job yourself, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of having a professional install your brakes for you.

Tools Needed for Replacing the Parts

Before you get started, you’ll need to make sure you have all the necessary tools. This includes: a jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, lug wrench or socket set, c-clamp (for calipers), flat-head screwdriver, metric Allen wrenches (for caliper screws), brake parts cleaner or mineral spirits (to clean rotors), torque wrench (for wheel lugs), and a new set of brake pads and rotors.

Step by Step Guide for Replacement Process

Once you have gathered all the necessary tools, it’s time to begin the replacement process. The first step is to jack up the car and secure it on jack stands. Next, use a lug wrench or socket set to remove the wheel lugs from each wheel that needs new brakes. Then remove each wheel from the vehicle.

On most Subarus, the next step is to remove the caliper from the rotor. This is done with an Allen wrench or c-clamp depending on which model car you have. Once removed, use a flat-head screwdriver to remove any retaining clips that may be holding in place before removing the old pads from each caliper assembly.

With this done you can now clean any remaining dust or debris from both sides of each rotor using brake parts cleaner or mineral spirits. It’s important that all surfaces are completely free of dirt and grime before reinstalling anything on your vehicle so as to ensure optimal performance of your new brakes.

Once everything has been cleaned thoroughly it’s time to install your new brakes. Begin by installing new pads into each caliper assembly before reinstalling them onto each rotor one at a time with either an Allen wrench or c-clamp depending on which model car you have again). Then replace each wheel onto its respective hub while tightening down with either your lug wrench or socket set until tight but not overly so as to avoid damaging any components unnecessarily (typically 80ft/lbs). Finally reinstall any retaining clips if necessary before lowering your vehicle off its jack stands and testing out your new brakes for proper operation before driving off!

Advantages & Disadvantages of Having a Professional Install Your Subaru’s Brakes

Having a professional install your Subaru’s brakes comes with both advantages and disadvantages when compared to doing it yourself:

Pros of Professional Installation

The main advantage of having a professional install your brakes is peace of mind knowing that everything was done correctly without having had any prior experience in performing this type of work yourself – plus they can usually provide some additional tips for future maintenance as well! Additionally, if something does happen to go wrong during installation they are typically covered under warranty should any issues arise later down the road due to improper installation procedures by them.

Cons of Professional Installation

On the other hand however there are some downsides associated with having someone else do this type of work for you such as cost – typically professionals will charge more per hour than if you were doing it yourself – plus there could also be additional fees associated with providing them access/permission into areas where they may need specialized tools or equipment in order to perform their job properly (such as accessing behind dashboards etc).

Common Issues With Subaru’s Brakes

Having worn out parts is one of the most common issues people experience while operating their Subarus – especially when it comes to brakes which can cause vibrations felt through both pedals when braking hard due to uneven wear patterns between pads/rotor surfaces over time; another common issue people tend to experience are noisy/squealing noises coming from either side when stopping due often times being caused by worn out brake components or even debris lodged between surfaces causing issues as well – but fortunately these types of problems are easily fixable without too much trouble provided one takes proper care in diagnosing what exactly is wrong beforehand!

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is the cost of replacing Subaru brake pads and rotors?
A: The cost of replacing Subaru brake pads and rotors will depend on various factors such as the type of brake pads and rotors chosen, the labor costs for installation, and any additional parts or services needed. Generally, you can expect to pay between $200-$400 for parts and labor.

Q: What types of Subaru brake pads and rotors are available?
A: There are several different types of Subaru brake pads and rotors available, including organic, metallic, ceramic, and drilled/slotted options. Organic brake pads are usually the least expensive option while ceramic pads tend to provide better performance but come at a higher cost. Drilled/slotted rotors also provide increased stopping power but can be more expensive than standard rotors.

Q: What are the benefits of installing new brake pads and rotors for a Subaru car?
A: Installing new brake pads and rotors for your Subaru car can offer several benefits such as improved stopping power, reduced vibration and noise levels, improved fuel economy, and longer life for your brakes.

Q: How do I know when it’s time to replace my Subaru’s brake pads or rotors?
A: One way to tell if it’s time to replace your Subaru’s brakes is by checking the thickness of the pads or rotors with a micrometer or other measuring tool. You may also notice squealing noises or vibrations when braking if it is time to replace them.

Q: How often should I change my Subaru’s brakes?
A: It is generally recommended that you have your brakes checked every 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first). Brake pad replacement frequency will vary depending on your driving habits so it’s best to consult with an automotive professional if you have any questions about when to change your brakes.

In conclusion, the cost of Subaru brake pads and rotors can vary significantly depending on the type of vehicle and the make and model. The cost can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the parts and labor needed to replace them. It is important to consult with a professional mechanic to determine the exact cost of replacing these components on your particular Subaru. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that purchasing quality parts will often result in a longer lifespan for your brakes and rotors.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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