REALLY!? A SCAN TOOL To Do Rear BRAKES?! That’s Right. Modern Subaru Rear Brakes, The Right Way!

[@jparker1823]

Update! I was able to do this with my $39 Autel AP200. Thanks for the video.

[@chadfenstermaker2082]

On a 19 forester?

[@jparker1823]

@chadfenstermaker2082 18 Outback, but it would work on a 19 as well. AP200 officially supports upto 18, but I've used it to read and clear codes on my friend's 21 WRX, so it depends more on the module used than the year.

[@swell07_]

does it measure trans fluid temp too 🤔 thatd make it a killer subie tool

[@jparker1823]

@scottwell5701 Yes, but I've only used it on an 18 OB and 16 Crosstrek so far. Doesn't work with my 23 OB yet since the TCM is definitely different.

[@bwbhammer]

Thank you! I have been looking for a used older shop scan tool updated through 2015 for my Legacy and the cheapest I could find was $250. I had no idea that there were dongle scanners that had so many functions available.

[@lloydames8752]

You do not need a scan tool. It just makes it easier than winding them in manually. Oem service manual will tell you both procedures.

[@PabloVelarde1]

Yeah, this is a grift. A scan tool is NOT NEEDED.

[@lengxiong3247]

Yes I agree. Total BS. But I like the fact Mr.Subaru shows us how to do it when your rich and you can afford a computer reader. Haha. Both way is legit.

[@crabjoe]

You could also take the cover off the EPB and manually turn the EPB.

[@MtnXfreeride]

The manual says both ways work if you don't have a scanner. He went in on a video on my other channel saying I did it wrong with a smug attitude. Seems he has deleted his comments since.

[@RocSteadyNY]

I just did my wife’s 2020 Legacy today. Definitely don’t have a scan tool 😂. Also didn’t loose. The brake hose. Caliper will definitely sit on the spring.

[@jetstar5224]

I love your videos, and as the owner of a used 2011 Outback, I appreciate all of your work done on your brother's 2011. That said, please take the following with a grain of salt: as a professional aircraft mechanic since I was 20 years old and a heavy automotive DIYer, now at the age of 69, I wince when I see your hands being used as a hammer. Years of doing the exact same thing as shown at 5:09 and 5:23 have caused the palms of my hands to be very painful under certain conditions; not so much when working with them, but afterwards. It doesn't help that I have psoriatic arthritis, but please take my unsolicited advice and either use a soft mallet or a long breaker bar to loosen fasteners like that. Keep up with the great videos!

[@marknathanks7592]

I can second your alert. Days gone by, i have hammered on wrenches with hand& palms as a tool as well as screwdriver ends. Now age 67, the chickens have come home to roost.

[@banger881]

From an experienced mechanic working on German cars up to 2022 I would tell you something easy and simple remove the parking brake motor two bolts alen head or start head remove the caliper rotate the spin on head in the back of caliper clock wise until it stops do not push hard by force when it stops push the caliper piston with your own hand inside you don't need any tools it's safer takes more time but you won't damage the parking brake motors that cost over $300 each

[@goldendelicious143]

Yes, this. I just replaced all pads/rotors on a 2020 outback with electronic e-brake. Disconnect ebrake power, remove from caliper, take the cover off, rotate the grooved end sticking out clock-wise, depress caliper (I used a rubber tipped wood vise). Extra time: 5 min per side, cost: 0$. When you activate the ebrake after putting it back together, you can hear the ebrake spinning the end back into the caliper to force it into the rotor and then release when you turn it off - that's all its doing.

[@mikedavis6690]

If hard to rotate, I used the two toothed tool for angle grinder attachments, that fits into the two dimples. One brands attachment tool did fit a little better.

[@sgtzsquad]

I built a harness with a switch and cigarette lighter plug which retracted the brake piston for me on a 2019 Outback and had no problems. You had to be aware of the polarity to insure the caliper completely retracted. The terminals had to be directly attached to the caliper harness pins, so you do NOT damage the circuitry. Made it easy for me. Appreciate the install demonstration of the lug studs.

[@AR-lx3cx]

Any chance you could provide step by step details ?

[@charleshuffman6982]

Great video - yet again. I'm glad I bought a base 2020 WRX manual that still has the mechanical parking brake!

[@iamdunker]

I did my breaks(front and rear) on my 19 sport without a scan tool with no issue. Just did it the normal way of pushing and screwing in the parking breaks and used a c clamp on my calipers. Easy Peasy. Im sure the scan tool does make it a tad easier tho.

[@williameident588]

Again, an excellent video.. so well done, clear, concise and I am a DIY on cars, a Marine Diesel professional. These are so informative and you never assume anything. Thanks .. keep them coming

[@crazytexasgypsy]

Never even thought of this when I bought it, but boy am I glad my ‘21 is a 6mt with the old fashioned parking brake.

[@mikey4004]

I replaced the rear brakes without the scan tool. Everything seems to function correctly. What issues will I run into if I don't use the scan tool? All I did was rotate the piston in till they bottom out, then pushed piston in the rest of the way to allow propper pad placement. Buttoned everything back up and everything is functioning properly. E-brake and all. Please let me know what issues may come about by skipping the scan tool. I am assuming all it does is rotate the screw portion back so you don't need the rotating break tool. thank you

[@nappyjim]

I did the same thing you did. I've replaced the rear brakes twice, about to do it for a third time in a couple weeks here and haven't had an issue yet. I also disconnected the negative terminal from the battery because I heard the break could possibly try to engage. Don't know if it's true or not, but I still disconnect the negative terminal and then like you use a rotating compression tool to push the piston back. 342k on my Outback 2015

[@JungleLoveOeOeO]

It won't try to engage. Winding is fine per gen 6 service manual.

[@ExtremeRecluse]

I never use emergency brakes in Detroit. All roads are flat.

[@ExtremeRecluse]

I just bought a 2020 Forester. The rear hubs need replacing.

[@hallkbrdz]

I hadn't realized Subaru had gone down that VW ebrake rabbit hole. Shame. Good to know for our car-care ministry. We do a lot of brake work.

[@Rickmakes]

I think the Outback got it in 2009 and the Forester in 2014.

[@arthurfernandes2402]

@@Rickmakes Forester got it in 2019…

[@briantii]

Everyone has gone that route. A few, like Mazda, have a sequence you can go through to retract them without a scan tool.

[@AM-hr7rs]

Still very easy to replace rear brakes without a scan tool fyi

[@thedarkmage7373]

You can wind them back with a wind back tool

[@TylerShawWx]

I took my wrx in to get my winter tires put on back in November. They broke a stud and then cross threaded another one. Then a brake caliper bracket bolt snapped when the broken studs were being replaced. Not a fun day.

[@jeffreydeans7097]

The Autel MaxiDiag 808 I picked up a few years ago for $100 has the EPB service function. Its a bit odd on the 808 since the EPB service function in the Service menu does not work on Subaru's, it will report a communication failure, but in ABS/VSS module diagnostics there is a special menu which does contain another EPB service feature that does work on Subaru's. I just used it today to replace a rear caliper that had a stuck piston that led to a hot rotor last night on my 2016 Outback.. On the Autel exiting service mode does exactly as your Topdon tool does, seven second count down to depress the brake pedal, followed by an ignition off an start.

[@jeffreydeans7097]

Wanted to add that even though the Subaru EPB system has parts made by Denso, it does not work like the Denso/Toyota system. On Toyota's with EPB you can pull up the EPB switch three times, then down three times, then hold it down and the EPB system will go into service mode, not so on a Subaru. Also on a Subaru the EPB is linked into the ABS/VSS system, it is not a standalone EPB system, if you pull the EPB handle while driving the ABS system will test the brakes and if they work it will not apply the EPB. Which probably explains why my 808 has the EPB service mode under the ABS/VSS module's "special menu".

[@briancoverstone4042]

Is that the MD808? Wow, that thing is $250 now. But far less than the official scan tool. I'll buy one if you say it works, just so I have a nicer scan tool.

[@briancoverstone4042]

I can confirm that the MD808 Pro does in fact work on the Subaru Ascent 2020. @jeffreydeans7097 is correct that in the EPB menu, don't select "Electronic Parking Brake", but instead pick the ABS/VSS module and then "special functions", and in there is yet another "Electronic Parking Brake" selection, and that one does work!

[@ur_a_buS]

Remember when you could work on your car without the use of electronics.

[@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017]

I still have some cars that don't require electronics to work on them.

[@fishguy911]

Tesla, “Hold my beer”.

[@nancyoffenhiser4916]

Grateful for my 2013 Subaru Outback.

[@6612770]

Good grief, yeah... Is the 2017 Impreza also afflicted in this way??

[@dongkapuyawn5107]

Sad and now the dealership are laughing😂

[@balsqueak]

I know you’re “by the book” but you can get away with simply removing the EPB from the caliper, then retracing the piston without a scan tool. I’ve even heard of people cycling the motor by jumping a battery to it to get it to retract. But removing on Subarus is pretty easy. Definitely not what youre supposed to do, but its 2 bolts and an o-ring holding it on, just clean and grease when you put it back on after retracing the piston. No scantool needed.

[@jackpalczynski7884]

This is exactly what I did on our Legacy. Easy Peasy and I'd bet it's a lot faster than using a scan tool.

[@JungleLoveOeOeO]

I've seen it wound without removing the EPB as the gen 6 service manual says you can just wind them if you don't have a tool.

[@Uncommonsensetoo]

Thanks. Good to know

[@sliqindustries4782]

yeah definitely just is mine today on my 22 wilderness no scan tool required

[@groosbro1]

Thankfully my '20 WRX still has a manual hand brake. Subaru wheel studs are made out some silly soft steel. When a tire shop cross threaded one of mine I went to the dealer, a new stud and nut cost a whopping $8! I didn't have access to a tool, so I bought a few grade 8 flat washers because they are hardened and flatter than most, a nut that fit the stud, greased the washers and nut, and used those to install the new stud. Easy-peasy.

[@onetimer100]

As others have said, scan tool not required for Gen 5 Outback (not positive on a '19 Forester but likely the same). I've done 3 rear brake jobs on my '15 OB now and simply unplug the EPB power connection (not sure it's necessary) and spin the caliper in using common brake caliper retraction tool and the correct adaptor plate. Once it bottoms out push the caliper in a bit further with a c-clamp or similar to bottom it out. Once powered back on and I cycle the EPB it finds 'home' and worked perfectly every time.

[@PH-md8xp]

There are ways to retract the electronic parking brake without the scan tool. 1) Use a 9v battery and apply it to the input terminals of the EPB, reverse the polarity to wind it in or out. 2) Remove the back of the EPB and use a ratchet to wind back the piston that pushes the brake pads onto the rotor. I’ve done both methods with no problems. The battery method is less invasive and therefore preferable.

[@shanz3n5]

can you show pics or vid on battery method?

[@billwhite5853]

@@MacAutoDiag A lot of scan tools in the $300 price range have bidirectional and service resets. You also can use other methods other than scan tools to perform certain resets, as the scan tool is not actually performing the reset, but rather commanding the control module to perform the reset. There have been safe work arounds for years for various electronic equipment. ...just more of a pain to have to research, rather than having a scan tool with the command stored in memory

[@jig85orak]

Mr Subaru.... There are some comments on here, and I've seen elsewhere, that the digital diagnostic tool is not necessary to do this job, I that you can manually turn the caliper and eBrake back if you have the right tool to do so. Can you confirm one way or another??

[@hale31]

thumbs up for doing a brake job outside while raining

[@blueoct5591]

You definitely do not need a scan tool to retract the E parking brake. You also don’t need to use battery power and jumper wires that many videos show. All you have to do is use a pinned caliper tool to turn the piston back until it stops. Then you push the piston back into the caliper like any normal brake job. Mr. Subaru has a lot of great info. This video was not one of them.

[@Uncommonsensetoo]

Good to know. I was disheartened by the need for such an expensive diagnostic tool just to do the breaks. I have always changed my own breaks in the past.

[@omgitsrickatier]

Won't you need to retract it at first to be able to get the caliper off? Or can you still compress it with a screwdriver enough to take it off?

[@chadfenstermaker2082]

I just tried it on my 19 forester by only turning in the caliper and it wouldn't open far enough to to fit over the rotor with the new pads

[@numba1nitemare]

Do what Mr Subaru says. Newer cars are different. My pops had a newer Ford and he did it the old way and the car would not get rid of some dash lights until he did the maintenance mode on a scan tool..

[@Beerman2112]

You are correct. I just did my 2020 Outback brakes all around. I picked up a caliper service tool kit from Harbor Freight for about $24, you can also use Autozone or other part-store tool-rental program for cheap/free. Everything went easy, and the rears were actually easier than the fronts. Note, unless you’re replacing studs or rotors, you don’t need to undo the 17mm bolts either, that’s just extra work.

[@bigv6724]

I started too love the subbies since my wife got a 2017 legacy a couple years ago. The seats are hard AF and suck for a long drive without a lumbar pad/pillow or whatever. Now finding out a freaking scan tool is needed just for a brake job is ridiculous. I've always owned toyota besides a 2001 escalade for a year "complete mistake and my ex-wifes idea to get one. Also she was a mistake as much as that escalade. Then a 92 Taurus years ago which was a freaking tank of a beast and really liked it. I did have 2 other cars but after that it's been toyota being the first was a 92 celica gt 2.2 5 speed hatchback. That was my baby and miss it sooooo much. Edit: I forgot to add at least hers when I hit the gas it feels like a split second of nothing before it moves but then again I'm used to driving manuals for 2 decades now.

[@bigv6724]

@LynxStarAuto I can agree with the cvt tranny. Feels like subaru wants the owners completely helpless to work on their own vehicles. What's next, a scanner for an oil change? Air up your tires? Adding blinker fluid?

[@KenEberts]

No, your car does NOT require a scan tool to retract the rear pistons, you can use a $20 manual wind back tool. Go download yourself a copy of the 2017 Subaru FSM - it's all there in black and white.

[@lloydames8752]

@@KenEberts This is the kind of help we have today. You need to read service procedures on all repairs even simple ones. I have a 2020 outback and the dealer even told me you needed scanner to do rear brakes. I do have a scan tool to do repairs as i am a master ase technician. I send the dealer a copy of the Subaru service manual article the tells you how to manually retract piston if scan tool is not available.

[@4honor]

Man, I am glad my BRZ is still manual hand brake. But now I am kinda wanting to avoid e-parking brake cars...

[@AM-hr7rs]

Can be replaced without a scan tool FYI look it up

[@kidwelldavid6136]

That was something new. Thanks for the video on electronic breaks. This gave me some good insight and or information. 👍

[@swell07_]

please dont forget you only get 1 half hour break every 8 hours

[@ssquirrel88]

Wish I had a mechanic like Mr Subaru. We have a 2018 50th Anniversary Outback, love it. I would drive from WV to SC to have work done...correctly.

[@iwfur25]

I don't know if any other American makes/models do this, but my 2016 Cherokee has the rear brake service mode function in a menu in the infotainment screen. No scan tool required. It also doesn't need a scan tool to swap out TPMS sensors. Meanwhile our Subaru had me buying a (thankfully not too $) Autel tpms tool for DIYing winter tire swaps.

[@ur_a_buS]

Soon we'll need a scan tool to replace studs.

[@javier.villatoro]

You need a scan tool to replace a battery in VW.

[@lloydames8752]

@@javier.villatoro All new cars need to have new battery set with scan tool. Smart charging systems in todays cars.

[@micro13989]

I have a 2019 Subaru Forester. I saw this video and was concerned i might need a scan tool. I used a 9 volt battery to wind the e brake motor in. So be mindful if it comes out the simply switch terminals(you are changing the polarity). There are videos on this. You will still need to push the brake in, I was able to do it by hand since the battery had retracted the internals. So to those who may be concerned about doing it with a 9-volt battery. It has been couple weeks now. Brakes work, I have tested the ebrake with the car motionless and tested it going low speeds 5-10 mph, it worked. So far so good, the brakes work good been run through regular driving highway to back roads good stopping power. I have adaptive cruise control, brakes still come on automatically as they should to stop. So the 9-volt battery worked.

[@robertcochran7103]

Thank you for posting this extremely helpful video. I have a 2019 Forester and my dealer shop recently told me that it needs rear brake pads. We have had the car since it was new, and it has less than 22,000 miles on it, so I think it is a bit strange that the service is needed. However we are city people and do quite a lot of stop and go driving in heavy traffic.

[@glengarey9789]

I replaced rear pads on my wife's 19 forester without a scan tool. The only difference is,you have to manually turn back caliper piston with special(inexpensive) tool.

[@brandyns4930]

I've done rear pads twice on my 2020 Ascent with no scan tool using a caliper twisting tool from Amazon.

[@larryborkstrom3580]

Thanks for showing this property install if rear pads on a modern car

[@LilFoxAK]

just came to say, Subaru rear calipers look really familiar to Honda ones, just saying for Honda you dont NEED the tool but makes it real easy if you do. got the amazon pneumatic caliper piston kit. no dtcs or anything. id be curious for other manufactures like subaru and euro cars.

[@CoolPilot]

Well I guess I'll keep my '21 Crosstrek with the manual hand brake so I can keep doing brake jobs myself.

[@andyincalimoto843]

SO MUCH FOR RIGHT TO REPAIR. When it comes to my motorcycles and cars, I try to keep it as simple as possible. meaning ABS and traction control. that is it

[@MatthewFiereck]

I think your missing the point of right to repair. The tools are available for purchase so yes you are able to do the work yourself. By your argument a 1990 Buick is also not right to repair because you need to buy a wrench or 2 in order to do the work. Yes you now need an additional tool that you wouldn't have needed in the past but so long as that tool is available the right to repair is still maintained. The issue of right to repair was started because companies like John Deere would roll out a tractor with all kinds of new electronics and not release the tools needed to support even basic repairs that normally could be completed in minutes in the field. You now need to wait for a certified JD service tech to come fix it instead because you cannot buy the tools needed.

[@andyincalimoto843]

@@MatthewFiereck you’re not wrong I’m just saying I feel any new layer of technology that limits the ability for a DIYer with limited resources is no different to pay to play. You either fork out $1000 for a new tool or $1000 for someone else to do. Granted this is something you have to factor in when purchasing your vehicle. But features like electronic parking brake is not a necessity to the function of the car, just a new reason to discourage people from doing it themselves so they take it into the dealership to pay them to do it. Motorcycle companies are loading their bikes with electronics that is also a bit overkill. We are no longer needing technicians but electrical engineers to work on our vehicles

[@jimmylang8039]

There's a cup tool with fingers that will back off those calipers and it's like $20 and goes on a ratchet. I do like the scan tool you have. I don't know if mine has that option?

[@spelunkerd]

At the beginning I noticed you had a long pocket screwdriver placed in the park interlock override port on the middle console. Was that related to the brake job or was that a separate repair for some other problem?

[@MrSubaru1387]

Just makes it easier to jack up a Subaru if it’s in neutral. Lol

[@6612770]

I was wondering exactly the same thing 🙂

[@ShortysTRM]

Help me out here...I didn't see you clean anything off of the caliper or caliper bracket, nor did I see you use any sort of lube on the pad ears or regrease the slide pins. Have I been doing everything wrong? I am in the rust belt, for what it's worth.

[@AR-lx3cx]

I noticed the same; but, it appeared that his pins slid smoothly almost like new. I think an inspection and grease was left out for simplicity. 145k on 2016 outback. I found corrosion and sticky pins when previous brake jobs were done by dealer. I've had one stuck pin on front caliper that required a torch to remove. So, yes I would always inspect clean and relube the pins and just a touch of grease on the pad "ears".

[@Naattik]

For a second I thought I can’t buy this and won’t be able to do the brakes myself… reading the comments reassured me. Mr Subaru, we watch your vids for good content but you should also show us less expensive options. If I have the money to buy a $800 scan tool, I won’t be attempting to do the brakes myself.

[@michaelradford3162]

I noticed you didn't lubricate anything. Is that not needed? I'm asking because I'll be doing rear brakes soon. Great quality video!

[@dalecesafsky4506]

Dean and lube for a proper job.

[@bkdv]

So you're saying whenever I need to do my brakes to buy a bidirectional scan tool on Amazon credit and return it when I'm done?

[@tresopple]

Just did my dads rear brakes on his 2017 legacy, all you gotta do is remove the the parking brake and compress the piston then put it back on. It does has some weird bolts though, think it was a 7mm Allen to get it off and then two 5mm Allens to open it. Don’t quote me on that lol. But yes def don’t need a scan tool

[@Waikatotek]

I like the look at that scan tool. I just got a launch and it’s very busy how it’s laid out.

[@jimzitojr4928]

Just did my rear 2019 Ascent rear pads and just unplugged from the caliper and manually retracted the caliper and did not have any problems after I was done

[@rafranks1410]

I watched your video about rear pads on our ‘16 Legacy. I got the rewinding tool, followed your example, and successfully installed the new pads. Everything works great, including the parking brake and the hill-holder. But I’m curious, when did the scan tool become a thing? Now I’m full of doubt and self-loathing… Thanks for the excellent tutorials!

[@KenEberts]

You can safely continue to use your wind back tool on your 2016, there is no requirement to use brake maintenance mode on any Gen 6 Legacy, the Subaru FSM explicitly says so.

[@rafranks1410]

@@KenEberts thanks!

[@davidevans8826]

You can disconnect the electrical connecter to the electronic retracting system and just add 12 V. You'll see one way it'll work one way it won't and it will retract the calliper pistons by simply doing that you do not need the big scan tool. I've done this I'm almost every brand.

[@rufushusky]

Add me as another one that didn't use a scan tool, I disconnected the battery and unplugged the connector on the back of the caliper. Screwed back in nicely and everything booted back up just fine.

[@GeorgeJFW]

I swear there is a way to enable brake service mode with out a scan tool similar to how to enable coolant purge mode.

[@endless2death]

I got around it by cracking the brake line open an pushing the pistons in .I didn't get an lights...figure I would share some knowledge with you seeing you helped many times over .Happy 4th of July 🍻

[@Wrang15]

Shocked no rust. My 2021 OB 11k its all surface rusted over. Weekly washing and fluid fim does not stop it in PA.

[@joserodirguez4315]

I am looking at the 2019 forester brake video and I am a bit confused. As a DIY person, isn't there another way to do the rear brakes without a $2,000 scan tool? Other videos have go-around method that work just as well.

[@chrosquites]

Before seeing this video I had already done this service twice on my 2018 Subaru Outback 3.6r. I have always just disconnected the battery and spun back the parking brake manually. When first applying the parking brake after service I hear them both spin out for a good 5 seconds then all is working great. Never had an issue. Good luck.

[@AM-hr7rs]

Yes you can very easily

[@BimmerWon]

Does a 2021 Crosstrek need the scan tool?

[@o.c.stiggs5377]

The newer vehicle requirement of a scan tool for a simple job is just one example of the DIY superiority of a well-maintained older vehicle.

[@johnnyramirez9082]

That scanner reminds me of my Matco 4.0 will all trhe steps that I did on my Q5

[@timparker382]

Just wanted to say thanks for all your super informative videos! You do a great job!!

[@Robalo844]

Well for the same purpose and the same vehicle I just got theAutel Mx900ts and after market brake parts,my car has over 150K miles with original parts 😅

[@dnlmachine4287]

What a joke. I agree with poster below that should fall under right to repair act. Subaru: "You do have the right to repair. All you need is this special scan tool. We will sell you one for.......$4,500. How does that sound?" cough-cough JOHN DEERE Cough. Car manufacturers that do this can eat a hot soft steaming mushy mealy shet sandwich packed with dog hair. Stay gold.

[@MrSubaru1387]

It’s pretty much the same across the board nowadays. This isn’t a Subaru only phenomenon. We don’t even get dipsticks to check our own transmission fluid levels…

[@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017]

The quality of labor hires at garages these days is abominable. A friend of mine went to Jiffylube and they didn't put the oil cap back on and it sprayed all over the engine bay. That's just one of dozens of stories like that I've heard lately.

[@goukenslay7555]

Well less and less people want to be in the trades and they accept anyone with no experience as apprentices

[@m3rdpwr]

~35 years ago. they broke my break reservoir cover when inspecting and didn't tell me. I got home, popped the hood and saw the broken cover with fluid everywhere. This is because people used to punch back on those old GM break reservoir covers. Had to go to the junk yard and get one.

[@Align700nitro]

That's lucky, I heard one didn't put oil back in.

[@lloydames8752]

Jiffy lube hires Mcdonald's and Dunkin donuts techs. You get what you pay for. Go to jiffy lube your own fault.

[@stopsign997]

I don’t think I’d buy this car just because of this. Love being able to do simple brake job for cheap.

[@michaelfulcher5743]

I agree. Brake jobs are one of the easiest things to do. I have saved thousands of dollars over the years doing them myself. The idea I can’t do it because of not owning this level of scan tool… quite annoying. Edit: looking at other comments, looks like you can pick up a scan tool pretty cheap that has this functionality… it would pay for itself in less than one job and can be used on other vehicles…

[@MrSubaru1387]

Well your options are very limited on new cars… 😂

[@staleyexplores]

Same procedure for 13 Subaru legacy with rear electric parking brake? Need the computer?

[@matthewprosco5940]

Unless the outback is different, my dad's 2020 outback also has epb, but did NOT require the scan tool for rear brake replacement. I have the scan tool to due so, but it was not required. I just made sure the parking brake was off, and it wound in like normal

[@PeatyR]

My wife's 2013 OB and my previous 2010 Legacy 3.6R had an electronic brake but did not need this tool either. Now I'm wondering which do and don't need a scanner.

[@lloydames8752]

@@PeatyR Pay the 35 dollars and bur the manual from Subaru.

[@PeatyR]

@@lloydames8752 I have the service manual, I also have a scan tool now.

[@rodr5237]

​@@lloydames8752 what website?

[@bluerexplaysgames722]

While it's pretty disheartening to see the scan tool reliance taking over, once it happens to enough cars I'm sure we'll see an app that you can use with a wifi OBD2 reader to do the same thing. Fingers crossed.

[@andyincalimoto843]

One can only hope. But we all know manufacturers prefer us going to them for all our maintenance needs

[@TheLadeef]

just did this, a two prong bike tool to wind the piston in, then c clamp to push it the rest of the way once it bottoms out.

[@nancyoffenhiser4916]

I know this sounds like a silly question, but could any of you guys answer this for me as to why you're having so many cars have wheels come off in the middle of driving down the freeway. Is it due to these rounded out or broken bolts when you get your tires rotated or changed? I've seen it myself. I had a lady in front of me and her front left wheel just came flying off, bounced in the air and everything else. I mean it was crazy. It was lucky it didn't land on somebody's car. But it just seems like if you watched any of those dash cam videos once a week you see someone who loses a wheel just driving down the highway.

[@MrSubaru1387]

Could be stud failure from over tightening or cross treading lugs.

[@johnjackson1820]

My mechanic used the scan tool to get it in brake maintenance mode freed up the calipers but I believe he used a clamp to push them back in now the car can't come out of brake maintenance mode. The other guy is having the same issue

[@iluvdrt8776]

Just did brakes on a 2022 OB Wilderness. 100% DO NOT need a scan tool. Unplug motors, screw in piston. Easy day. No codes, no service lights, just a regular brake job

[@necessaryJustice_4all]

Hey Mr. Ru. Question. Just had my rear brake pads replaced. Still squeaking. Mechanic offered rotors and pads for $300, but declined bc he said the rotors looked fine (no grooves, etc). Seems to be an honest mechanic. He also mentioned that he couldn’t promise the squeaking would stop by only replacing the pads. 🤔 I still declined. My thoughts were, if the rotors look to be good, why replace them? Anyhow. That’s my situation. Could the rotors be the issue? Or…possibly the quality of the pads they put on? Want what’s best for my Subaru. 2018 3.6 Outback touring. 🙏🏻

[@oldguy2082]

Vehicle service in the future will continue to be increasing computerized; we've become to dependent upon the convenience features added each year to new model year vehicles. I have no problem with many of the "advances" in the computerization in the vehicle; all the air bags, cruise control, ABS brakes/anti-skid/electronic brake force control and GPS. But, do we really need 30 way power seats with auto heating or cooling; voice activated controls for radio/heater-ac/sunroof? My 2016 domestic vehicle has 26 separate circuits/relays and control modules and so I'm told 5 miles of wiring and the item that really gets me is that these days parts are increasing sold as assemblies, which of course, makes repairs more expensive. One of the two other issues is the cost of updating the service equipment to do repairs. My Snap On scan tool, last updated in 2018, costs $1000 per year to update, though if you subscribe to a plan, it's somewhat less expensive. Even for a dedicated DIY person, a good aftermarket scan tool to do many maintenance functions will cost about $1000 or so. Some models of Snap On scanners are above $12k+ and more; though there are some other brands of scan tools that work well for far less money. Don't blame your independent garage for expensive labour and parts prices; we have very expensive equipment that needs regular upgrades just to keep pace with changes in the industry; it's just how it is. And because it's increasing computerized, a scope now is no longer a luxury, its a must have. If you're a generalist shop, you'll need at least two scan tools to try and cover the wide range of vehicles you might see. I own three different scan tools...It's one of the reasons I've retired..

[@DOBERSTAFFIE]

Convinced me to stick with the base models. Great video.

[@patriot3431]

You can use the bolt that holds down the brake line to dislodge the rust seal with the rotor if it doesn’t come off.

[@STROBdotNET]

What about greasse and silicon lubrification on break pads ears and back? Also there is no pins to lube anymore?

[@alanmohn4146]

Do you have a suggestion for a scan tool for home use that will allow for the rear brake to be properly fixed. I would have to drive 60 miles to a Subaru dealership to get my brakes replaced. As a retired mechanic I want to do simple jobs myself.

[@t9056]

yper tough ht200 autel ap200 50$ look it up

[@alanmohn4146]

thanks@@t9056

[@don_moody]

No scan tool is needed to do this job. I just did it today on our Outback with electric parking brakes on the rear. Amazon sells a $30 tool kit which allows you to manually retract the electric brake piston. And the same kit also makes it easy to push in the hydraulic brake piston.

[@williekessel9364]

Is there another option for a scan tool to do the brake job that’s a bit more economical?

[@t9056]

hyper tough ht200 or autel ap200 50$ used to be at walmart...it can also do steering angle sensor and many other things...only works for one brand of car like subaru but costs like 20$ a year to add additional brands like ford or kia or w.e...its made for diy who wanna fix there own car and need to do things like this

[@streetmachine8211]

Just use a 9v battery and retract the pistons. Works like a charm.

[@johnpflug1567]

My wife's 2017 Outback has the electronic parking brake, had the dealer take care of them; didn't trust any local repair shop to do it correctly, but if I lived in SC, it would have been you! I still do the front brakes myself. BTW, the front pads lasted over 80k (mostly highway) miles; the rear only around 55k. Apparently the rear pads have less surface area than the older design. Heard that because of the electronic parking brake design, the pads were reduced in size; there wasn't enough physical space. What is your opinion on this? Thanks for a great Subaru channel! I have learned so much from you. BTW, our Subie currently has 97k miles, mostly trouble free. Much better than the previous '06 Outback; I managed to eke out 149k miles before trading it in.

[@MrSubaru1387]

The rear pads are actually larger in surface area now than previous models.

[@rollingacresfarmstead206]

my 16 also has the E-parking brake

[@johnpflug1567]

@@MrSubaru1387 So why do you think this occurred? BTW, we rarely engage the parking brake. Should it be used occasionally so that it will be less likely to freeze up? We live in the Northeast, in Queens NY. Thanks

[@mikemiura3886]

How have you liked the Topdon scanner. We have multiple OEM’s and the red truck one. Looking to add a better/comparable option to the red truck brand.

[@MrSubaru1387]

Really liking it so far. Had it about a month. More capabilities on Subaru than my Snap-on scanner.

[@michaelweatherhead9470]

Thanks for the video Robert nicely done 👍✅. Take care of yourself and family ❤️ and be Blessed ❤️❤️❤️.

[@amoni1959]

Would hitting the stud out like that damage the wheel bearing?

[@aselch]

This video was awesome! Did it with an Ancel V6 Pro

[@nicktonge7604]

If you just want to take the pads out to clean them up, do you need to do any other adjustements or preps? Surely you can just take out the pads and put them back in...?

[@cardo1111]

A reason for a DIYer to avoid buying a Subie. However most Subie owners have complete faith in their local dealership and don't mind paying them for their maintenance services.

[@MrSubaru1387]

Don’t buy any new brand car if that’s your reasoning… 🙄

[@jimmyjones8311]

Not saying the tire guys aren’t morons. But I’ve spent many years working for a national tire chain. Most or the time someone “cross threads” a lug nut it’s not really cross threaded. What happens is they over tighten and essentially weld the nut to the stud. When you only need 80# to torque a nut but hit it with an 800 foot pound impact the nut is the weak link.

[@r3k904]

I meaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan Me and my buddy hooked up two wires to a Milwaukee battery used the two wires on the Parking Brake Sensor (On the Caliper) and was able to get the piston to move thus freeing it up, for enough pressure to push back the caliper without any use of a Scan tool of any measure Did it not even 2 weeks ago funny enough. (Im not trying to be rude btw just giving out info that may further help DIY'ers with their Vehicles) :D

[@t9056]

the hyper tough ht200 or autel ap200 scan tool for 50$ is able to do this..also good for sas...for ppl who wanna do there own stuff w.o expensive scan tool

[@thatsubae]

I'm a auto tech, and you have to do this on ford's as well.

[@MisterMister5893]

My 21 Onyx rear brakes are recommended to be replaced by Subaru "advisor" for a handsome fee, of course. I thought it would be as easy as dropping in new pads. The drawbacks of having modern cars with a bevy of safety features.

[@jmooney2880]

I ran into this on a 2018 f150 recently.

[@ricpmateo]

Hi there, whats the cheaper scanner you can buy and still function to do this job. My mechanic has a snap on, can he upgrade it to have this software for Subaru? Thanks for your time and the video

[@giovanniretiz-kyniston180]

Subaru studs are always just bound to break. I work at a Hyundai dealer and usually I’ll just pull out the connector after I turn off the vehicle but make sure it stays disengaged and once the vehicle is off unplug EPB

[@aleksandartasic7652]

I know it’s been a while since you put this video out. Was bleeding of brakes required and done, did I miss that somewhere in here? Thanks.

[@gboy2513]

What is oil maintenance mode? What am I missing not having a scan tool???

[@LongLLY]

Stuff like this should fall under right to repair act.

[@MrSubaru1387]

Anyone can purchase the tools to perform the repair, so don’t think it’s a violation.

[@LongLLY]

@@MrSubaru1387 I’m not saying it currently a violation, I’m just saying I feel as though it should.

[@ForgottenMotoring]

I never thought to see if there was a name for the coating on brake rotors 🤔

[@Mike-k9k9n]

What happens if you disconnect the battery? Will this relax the caliper?

[@dannyplanck6498]

At one time you told us where we could get OEM Subaru parts w/out going to a dealer. Would you tell me again please ?

[@MrSubaru1387]

Subarupartsdeals.com

[@doghutson]

Question: Replacing rear rotors and pad on 2015 Subaru. Does NOT electronic park break. Can I replace both and then pump the brake pedal, or must I do it after each wheel is done?

[@3seriesgarage]

Hey mr subi!! Quick question! Does the TOPDON Arti Diag Pro bidirectional scan tool do this aswell! Really just wondering if it winds back electronic brake calipers!? Thanks much

[@AlexP-yb7gh]

Is there a list of what tools you used? I would like to purchase them I have a Subaru Ascent and I'm sure it's not to different unless there's something unique about the Ascent

[@jerisa2k]

Hi Mr.Subaru, just want to know if the jack you used is on the rear differential to lift both rear wheels up to put jack stands on the pinch weld jack points?

[@jjay718]

Can you not just unbolt the parking brake motor from the caliper and then manually retract the piston?