Tutorial: How to change brake pads and rotors on a 2003 Subaru WRX

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Quick tutorial on how to change your brake pads and rotors on a Subaru WRX. STi is similar, but not exactly the same.

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[tnc7]

Can i do the same process for the MY99? and another question. Don't you need to bleed fluid after installing rotor and break pads?

[nukem384]

@tnc7 yeah should be the same thing. nope, never bled the fluid after and have never had problems.

[RobertMoua]

When should i change my rotors? My rotors are kind of rusted and it makes this squeaky sound when i break. i tried brake cleaners and installed new brake pads but it still makes the squeaky sound.

[nukem384]

@RobertMoua on the actual rotors it gives you a measurement on how low they can be wore down. you have to get a special measuring tool from the auto parts store to measure the thickness of the rotor. thatll tell you if you need new rotors. or if the rotors are warped, time for new ones.

[RetroGamerr1991]

How about a 2000 Legacy. Should be somewhat the same huh?

[nukem384]

@RetroGamerr1991 should be exactly the same

[outerspaceonline]

Useful! Thank you! I'm a little less enthusiastic about doing the fluid, might have someone else do it who has a pump...

[abev236]

Followed the instructions to replace the rear pads (but not rotors) on my 04 WRX. Basically identical. Thanks!

[justinsvidz]

Great video as always, but a couple things of note.

As with the Pilot brake video,

you didn't service the caliper bracket, and slide pins.

It is very important to clean the area of the bracket where the pads fit in with a wire brush, both above and below the clips, so rust doesn't accumulate and freeze the pads in place.

You also want to lube the ears of the new pads, and the caliper slide pins.

Finally you didn't mention removing the cosmoline from the new rotors.

Other than that, great job !!

[v1k1ngs79]

When i change my brakes i just swing away of the front of the rotor till they come lose

[Cunninglam4]

@msweett3

FYI: This is the same symptom I had on my 1996 Mustang. The new rotor turned blue. I ended up changing out the caliper.

[PixelBanger]

Do not use a hammer to remove your rotor!, We'll unless like he said, you won't ever us it again. Use the pinch bolt holes (8x1.25 mm) to "push" the rotor off.

Important: When taking the rear rotors off, the e-brake must be disengaged because it will be pressing against the inside of the rotors and they won't come off. My 2 cents.