2013 Subaru Outback Brake Pad Replacement
Complete guide to 2013 Subaru Outback brake pad replacement. Cost estimates, difficulty level, time required, and environmental impact.
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💰 Cost Breakdown
💡 Tip: Costs vary by location and repair shop. Authorized service centers typically charge more than independent repair shops.
🔧 Repair Overview
Brake Pad Replacement is one of the most common repairs for 2013 Subaru Outback. This repair involves replacing the damaged brakes component with a new or refurbished part. The process typically takes 1-2 hours and requires moderate skill level.
🔧 Required Tools
What You'll Need
- Replacement brakes part (OEM or aftermarket)
- Precision screwdriver set (Phillips #000 or pentalobe)
- Opening tools (plastic spudger, suction cup)
- Adhesive strips or glue
- Clean workspace with good lighting
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1:
Turn off the vehicle and remove the key from the ignition switch to avoid any injury while replacing brake light.
Step 2:
Open the hatch back door.
The brake light assembly is only accessible when the door is open.
Step 3:
Using the Phillips #2 screwdriver, loosen the two retaining screws that are holding the plastic cover in place.
Pull both the retaining screws out of the plastic cover.
Remove the plastic cover from the vehicle.
Step 4:
Using the Phillips #2 screwdriver, remove the two screws that are holding the rear light assembly to the body of the Subaru.
Step 5:
Using a flathead screwdriver or an opening tool, gently pry the rear light assembly away from the body of the Subaru just enough to loosen the assembly.
Pull the rear light assembly towards you to remove it from the vehicle.
Be careful when pulling the light assembly. The wires will still be connected to the inside of the vehicle.
Step 6:
Twist the light bulb socket counterclockwise and remove from rear light assembly.
Remove the bulb by gently pulling the bulb out.
Step 7:
Replace with a new bulb. Gently push a new bulb into the connector.
Place the bulb socket back into light assembly and twist clockwise to lock into place.
Step 8:
Align the rear light assembly with the two white clips with the collars on the vehicle.
Slide the light assembly into place. There is a square hole on the body of the Subaru that must align with post on the light assembly.
Step 9:
Reattach the two screws holding the rear light assembly to the vehicle. Use a Phillips #2 screwdriver.
Place the plastic cover back onto vehicle body and secure with retainers screws. The screws should be pushed into place.
Ask a friend to press on brake pedal to ensure proper brake lighting occurs.
📖 Repair guide provided by iFixit - The free repair manual. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 3.0.
iFixit Difficulty: Easy | Time: NaNh NaNm
DIY vs Professional Repair
✋ DIY Repair
- ✅ Lower cost (parts only: $90-$180)
- ✅ Learn new skills
- ❌ Risk of further damage
- ❌ No warranty
- ❌ Requires tools and time
🔧 Professional Repair
- ✅ Expert installation
- ✅ Warranty included
- ✅ Faster turnaround
- ❌ Higher cost ($150-$300)
- ❌ Need to find reputable shop
Environmental Impact
By choosing to repair your 2013 Subaru Outback instead of replacing it, you're preventing approximately 5795 kg of CO₂ emissions. Manufacturing a new 2013 Subaru Outback generates 5800 kg of CO₂, while this repair only produces about 5 kg of CO₂. That's a 100% reduction in carbon emissions!
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