2020 Subaru Crosstrek Brake Pad Replacement Guide

The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek runs the FB20 2.0L flat-four and Symmetrical AWD — a lightweight, capable crossover with a straightforward front brake system. Front pad replacement takes about 90 minutes and saves $200+ over dealer pricing.

What You'll Need

• Front brake pads: Akebono ASP1674WH ceramic pads or Subaru OEM K6WB10
• 14mm socket (caliper slide pin bolts)
• C-clamp or brake piston cube tool, turkey baster
• Brake parts cleaner, silicone brake grease, torque wrench
• Jack and jack stands

Cost: $60–$80 in pads (vs. $200–$300 at Subaru dealer)

EBD Note

The 2020 Crosstrek uses Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). No special reset procedures are needed after front pad replacement. The system self-calibrates within 1–2 brake applications on the first drive. If a brake warning light appears after the job, the most common cause is brake fluid level below minimum — check and top up.

Step-by-Step

1. Loosen lug nuts with tires on ground.
2. Raise and support on jack stands — subframe jacking points.
3. Remove wheels.
4. Remove brake fluid from reservoir — turkey baster, remove about 1/3.
5. Remove lower 14mm slide pin bolt — caliper pivots up on upper bolt for pad access. Wire caliper out of the way.
6. Remove old pads — slide out from carrier.
7. Clean carrier abutment areas — brake cleaner + wire brush.
8. Lubricate slide pins — clean old grease, apply fresh silicone grease. Never petroleum-based.
9. Apply brake lubricant to pad abutment areas — thin coat on carrier ledges only.
10. Inspect rotors — light grooves acceptable. Deep grooves or lip = replacement.
11. Retract caliper piston — C-clamp + block of wood. Slowly press fully back.
12. Install new pads — seat flat against carrier.
13. Reinstall caliper — both 14mm slide pin bolts torqued to 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm).
14. Reinstall wheels — lug nuts torqued to 89 ft-lbs (120 Nm) star pattern.
15. Pump brakes — 10–15 pumps until firm before moving.
16. Top up brake fluid to MAX.
17. Bed the pads — 6–8 moderate stops from 30 mph to 5 mph, allow cooling.

Troubleshooting

EBD/brake light after pad change: Check brake fluid level first.

Squealing past 200 miles: Check that no lubricant contacted the friction surface. Check slide pin movement.

One wheel pulling: Seized slide pin. Remove, clean, re-lube.

Final Thoughts

89 ft-lb lug nuts, 25 ft-lb slide pin bolts, lube the pins, bed the pads. For more Crosstrek guides and the complete Subaru DIY library, browse all articles at /blog or get everything with an OwnerDrop Starter plan at $29.99/mo.