Changing your brakes on your 2010 Subaru Impreza is definitely something you can do your self. I hope this video helps show you how to do that and gives you a little insight on the procedure. Again thanks for watching and please subscribe to our channel!

50 thoughts on “Replace rear disc brake pads and rotors – subaru impreza”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Lanna's Mind says:

    Eric thank you. This journey I started about what a month ago… maybe two, of working on my car myself has not been easy and holly crap I have already made all the mistakes you warn again… like for example

    … I did not know about your channel when I did the first repair job on Suby… she had broken 3 hub bolts while I was on a bridge on the freeway here in Portland OR… at the time I thought I had a flat tire and honestly did not know much at all about working on cars…

    My father bought cars from auctions and he and my moms dad would fix em up and flip em… my dad passed when I was 6 and my grandpa passed when I was 28 but he was jahova's whitness and my grandma said I was a evil worldly person cuz i graduated from gateway "christian" academy plus I lived in Memphis TN and they lived in Arizona….

    well no one has ever wanted to teach me or even offered to lend me tools to learn. So I enventually just gave up trying to work on cars and became content with my love of just driving them. That is until my hub studs snapped off like 3 or 4 months ago…

    I didnt have the money to pay a repair shop or a mobile mechanic…. so what did I do? I jumped on the tube of you where I discovered about a billion videos on cars and suddenly became very confident in my ability to do the job myself. All I needed was some tools so I began to ask around… if I could just find someone willing to lend me their tools… I am a pretty lucky person at least I believe I am and low and behold my cousins husband was kind enough to lend me some of his….

    after many videos and boost of confidence I headed out to my car where … I learned that I now needed to learn how to jack her up because it wasnt as easy as I remembered my old cars being…

    so I went back inside and looked up videos about jacking cars up…
    then I returned to Suby ready to get started… until I realized that the places the videos had said to use to jack her up did not exist … the information I had learned does not work for Suby she is not made the same as all the other cars.

    so I returned inside to find better mechanics with better videos hopefully ones with cars exactly like mine…
    Eventually I found 3 and I finally got Suby up in the air
    However that was about it for that day because well… I did not see this video you have here… if I had it might not have taken me 3 days to get one rotor off…
    I had the parking brake on… BECAUSE (yes im laughing too) the other videos all tell you when you jack your car up you must put the parking brake on for safety or the car might roll off the jack stands and crush you………..imma let that one marinate…….

    ok so after hammering and hammering and hammering i was about to give up when my cousin called and asked if I was done with the tools yet (day 3) she suggested I used some PBlaster…(she did not know my parking brake was on) I ran to the store got me some PBlaster and some WD-40 Penetrate and soaked the entire rotor as much as possible using half of both cans then waited 30 min… returned to Suby where I still… Could not… remove… the freaking rotor… (I did cry) I decided to just try and pull her off real hard with all my strength and it worked! I finally pulled the rotor off … falling on my rear end at the same time…

    I was ?!?shocked?!? to see a DRUM brake on the inside!!! I went ran to the parking brake… released it… ran back around and cussed out loud because the freaking drum brake! well you already know… Then I laugh ran inside and told my boyfriend … he laughed too cuz he told me to put the parking brake on… we both literally just learned in that moment that well why that was dumb…

    so once again i return to the tube of you…for the next steps… Now the rest well it took a little effort to learn but I did notice something pretty neat… PBlaster not only penetrates seized things it also melts rust a bit so I sprayed everything and scrubbed everything with my harbor freight wire brushes… there was so much of what I thought was sand and sludge and just build up everywhere that I couldnt tell what was a bolt and what was not a bolt… by the time I got done there were different colors in the wheel well that had not been there before… like whites and blacks and orange stickers even…

    I was sure that the strut and everything was fine because well there was no oil mark or anything like there is on all the videos I saw… but at the same time all the videos had fairly clean wheel wells none looked like mine… I just assumed since the place I kept my horse was on an Island that it must have been sand build up and had to be normal you know… So after I got done cleaning it all off I went ahead got started on removing the hub bolts (ROFL)… or at least I tried to…

    I looked and looked and looked for a video that would show me how to do this without hitting them with a hammer or heating them with a torch… both of those options were out… I had already started smashing the end of the first bolt I wacked with a hammer and I did not want to put a torch to my car… (OMG can you imagine if the stuff all over the wheel well was flamible? I mean well is strut grease flamible?) Well any way I decided it would just be best to spay PBlaster all over the studs and leave it to soak over night…

    I am a genious cuz the next morning guess what two wacks of the hammer and stud pops right out! Well I go to put the new one in and … it starts to sit crooked….

    So back to the tube of you… (There is a part that does not exist in the world anywhere other than Amazon that you are supposed to put the stud into and then you just like tighten it and it goes in straight every time easily…) Some guy said that I could use lug nuts to keep it straight… some Chick said I could use a ball joint tool to press it in… Do you wanna know what I used? A freaking Hammer because I finally found your videos! Thank GOD!!!

    Still I had yet to find this one… So today when I learned that over greasing the caliper pins is a problem and that the problem it will caused is exactly what my car now sounds like and looks like well lets just say I really really wish that I did not live in the city with no driveway and only street parking… because I would make so much more progress if I didnt have to stop at 10pm because the homeless begin to wake up and roam around scaring the crap out of me and stealing my tools… The other day my torque wrench went missing and 3 days later it showed up on top of the Taurus on top of the tree droppings that are an inch thick because the tree just dropped all its helicopter seeds so I know I did not set it there… It was nice that they brought it back though so I cant be mad that I had to take the crappy one I bought an hour earlier back to harbor freight… I thought "oh cool I can have some money to buy some crystal gemstone beads and finally make my friends bracelet I promised before the car broke" then I got to harbor freight and decided it was a good idea to just look around… When the first thing fell out of my very full of tools arms I decided I should check out and leave… I had to pull my cash app card out and pay the now $50 more than the money I got back from the torque wrench… This happens every single time I enter any car store or tool store now… So im not allowed to go in alone… I am also not allowed to go in with just my children because I have learned to convince them its a good idea to get more tools since well they can get toys too and my daughter can get things to decorate her room ….

    Now any time I am discouraged I just fast forward your videos to the end… Because I can do it too 😉

    P.S. I shared another comment about a week ago… I found a rust remover that turns rust to mud you can wipe right off… it also lasts as a shield for up to a full year in the rust belt … it is called RUST SHEILD by PBlaster… if you do not get yourself a bottle soon I am sending you one and I wanna see you use it because it is going to make you a ton of money… You can just tell folks to come to your shop and you will prep their cars for winter and they will never ever experience the issue that come with their cars rusting out again… you can even set up times they need to come back and get a touch up or check up to make sure they dont need another coat or something…
    I hope you had a good day yesterday and you actually enjoyed the entertainment of my learning experience I hope one day I will be able to share my knowledge of cars with my kids and that if for some reason I am unable to someone else will and they wont have to go threw teaching themselves like I am..

    Charles the Humble Mechanic encouraged his viewers to become certified or a apprentice because the car industry needs more mechanics so I am in the process of trying to find one that I can get a grant for or is free…I am a single mom with 3 kids and a horse… who lives in Portland OR and currently has a $2500 rent bill plus everything else just got more expensive… I am kind of glad my cars are broke down cuz gas is stupid now… I just wish I lived out in the country next to my horse cuz not being able to go see her is taxing my mental health… Watching you and your family and learning from you is helping me stay saine so thank you … Much Love Lanna's Mind

    I D

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Silo Johnson says:

    Got his Money worth. Next time might not be so lucky

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Antonio Claudio Michael says:

    Can't buy anything in America unless it's extreme like extreme Pepsi 🤣🤣 Eric O @SouthMainAutoRepairLLC

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars fomoco300k says:

    Is this the first SMA brake video?!?!
    And he’s already in the brake clean!!!

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars elwhastrummer says:

    Ohhhh…I'm surprised this video didn't get canned for the Eagles music I hear in the background.

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars elwhastrummer says:

    Jiffy Lube…."Hey, when we changed your oil, we noticed your brake fluid was low, so we topped it off for you"
    Customer…."Oh thanks".
    Mechanic doing their brakes a month later.
    "#%&&&&%#@!$$_&.. who filled up the #%/=/ master cylinder????".

  7. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jeni Davis says:

    best vid by far , concise and on point

  8. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars BUZ1952 Z says:

    Eric those rears have at least 5-6 feet left in them.

  9. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Paublus Americanus AMERICANUS says:

    Until you did this job I never realized there were companies that had drum brakes for a parking brake and disk brakes for stopping. When I bought a 70 Chevelle the reason it had drum brakes on super sport was because of the parking brake. My next door neighbor used c-clamps to pull the pads in on his daughters Chevy smashing the heck out of the pads to get it to fit not realizing you just turn the puck to adjust it in and out. When he got through she only had front brakes.

  10. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars John S. says:

    you are the best

  11. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars mark helman says:

    Excellent job thanks for the video and info

  12. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Saef Hindi says:

    Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge and experience. I appreciate it.
    Did ever have issue with brake lubricant Permatex purple extreme ? I heard they may swell the sliding pin rubber, especially in Subaru.

  13. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Donnie Robertson says:

    Second time watching 6/20/2020 great job like always A+

  14. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars drbrono says:

    Where does the squealer go? Inside brake pad? Is it positioned towards the front or rear of the caliper?

  15. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jake says:

    Thanks for this video! Doing my first complete brake job on my 2010 impreza soon. Do you think a C-clamp and an old brake pad or piece of wood would work just as good to depress the piston? Thanks!

  16. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Donald Venema says:

    Hey, I just did that on my 2015 Forester after a caliper failed at 36,000 miles. I guess I can do it!

  17. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars twr7500 says:

    Great information. You’re organized and have a great teacher attitude. Thanks

  18. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mike More says:

    makes me wanna go buy 200$ of brake fluids cans and have a party

  19. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars unclealig says:

    i am not able to push the cylinder piston fully back until the gap in the cylinder can fit my new brake pads and rotors. i used c-clamps.
    the cylinder looks corroded under the rubber hose. whats the fastest and easiest way to fix it? just replacing the piston by new ones (including the rubber hose) and derust the caliper or to get a new (or refurbished) caliper? (or any other hint, without replacing a part)?

  20. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Finn Schøyen says:

    Frist time I’ve seen a combination disc and drum brake. Was that Hotel California playing in the background, btw?

  21. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars DAWN boggs says:

    this is an EXCELLENT video YOU ARE A GREAT INSTRUCTOR! THANK YOU SO MUCH! GOD BLESS!

  22. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars qv6486 says:

    What is your opinion if I stay with Subaru OE parts is there a massive difference in terms of cost?

  23. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars electrotech12 says:

    Replaced brakes 16,000 miles ago with the Wearever Gold brake pads and Platinum rotors. Starting to get brake squeal after driving for about 5 minutes, hopefully the squeal is just from a lack of brake lubricant on metal to metal parts. The squeal is also intermittent, so I am going to pull the wheels tomorrow and check the pads. If needed to replace, is the Platinum option worth the extra money compared to the Gold? I would have thought i should have gotten more than 16k out of the Gold pads if they are bad.

  24. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars rodeo0808 says:

    Does anyone know what kind of jack he is using?

  25. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Caesar Sams says:

    This was EXACTLY what I was looking for to change out the pads and rotors on my 2014 WRX as my first brake job ever. The thorough explanation and justification of your instructions and methods are spot on and incredibly helpful especially with respect to New York winters/cars (my pads went in smoothly after a little filling). I'm in Rochester, but if I were further south, I would definitely be giving you my business! Thanks again!

  26. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mike Chiodetti says:

    Cleanliness is what makes for a great brake job! Ya they'll get dirty, but they'll work smoothly!

  27. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mid-Hudson Toolworks says:

    Awesome video, thank you for taking the time to produce it. I’ll be performing this work on my wife’s Impreza next week.

  28. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars damian0126 says:

    Great videos thanks for sharing your expertise. Recently picked up a 2003 Subaru Outback and replaced all the fluids and all pads and rotors. By the way, what kind of lift do you have the car on and where can I get one?

  29. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Christopher Buckley says:

    HA yeah like that brake cleaner smell? Breathe in deep! Thanks for the great tutorial

  30. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Christopher Young says:

    I hung my head in shame when you said you should never Force brake pads

  31. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Gary Thompson says:

    Just started watching your channel. Really like it. You are a good mechanic. I have a WRX so its nice to give a watch before I have to do anything. Thank goodness its a 2017, so I have a way to go.

  32. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars kevin w says:

    Man I love all the details you give. YOUR THE MAN. THANKS

  33. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars chris Sparidaens says:

    Nice video, and great music!

  34. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Michael Scheib says:

    how r u n i need ur help for a 2007 Mazda3 Automatic Tranaxle the warning light comes n gos out to n i am trying to find out waer i can look for it on the computer here

  35. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars nitroman58 V says:

    Thanks for posting this.  I just did the rear brakes on my 14 Imprenza.  This was the first time that I removed the brake caliper bracket.

  36. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars BreadAndGatorade says:

    What brake clean do you use? Do you buy it in bulk? I also love to use a lot of brake clean but find I end up spending a lot on it. Is there any secret cheap brake clean I'm missing. I love brake clean (and its smell!)

  37. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Justin Church says:

    Lol…just starting out Eric O vs current Eric O, way less serious and less nervous.

  38. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars anotoly tony says:

    eric O do you sleep with brake clean under your pillow?

  39. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Andrew Villanueva says:

    thank you Eric Another Awesome video

  40. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Richfo100 says:

    THE BEST GUY EVER GREAT JOB

  41. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Lovonia Mallory says:

    love it have a impreza 2000 you did a great job I am going to try this myself.

  42. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Shain Andrews says:

    What about knee pads, hearing protection, and respirator? Sorry couldn't resist. LOL! Slow news day over here, working through your older material. All good stuff!

  43. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Dick Head says:

    This guy knows his stuff!

  44. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars A-Z Tech says:

    Do you know if this is the same as the 2013 subaru impreza rear breaks look very close to the same just want to use this video for a work along helper video????

  45. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars TheCaperfish says:

    Eric are you not concerned with getting blasting media in your slide pin sockets or do you plug them before blasting ? Or hold them upside down and blast a whole can of brake cleaner into em (one can per socket ) to flush out media ?

  46. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Pablo Irizarry says:

    Great video,Thanks! Now to do my Brakes on my Subaru!

  47. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Yeshua's Talmid says:

    What are the torque requirements for the caliper and caliper bracket screws for the front and rear?

  48. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Yeshua's Talmid says:

    WHAT! No respirator to protect you from the hazardous brake dust?!
    lol

    As a DIY guy, I always look for thorough videos from a down to Earth reality. Thank you for your replacement video.

    Now go visit NASA and get yourself one of those space suits with a helmet to protect yourself from all the hazardous chemicals and from bumping your head in the wheel well, lol.

     🙂

  49. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Chaktastic DIY says:

    best brake job video i've see. subscribed and bookmarked… thanks

  50. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Venturi Life says:

    My EBC Red pads came with what looked like a small pouch of copper based anti-seize as the grease. I put it on the plastic adhesive shim, and on the rails/pins as instructed, seems to work fine.

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