2013 Subaru Outback Base, Standard TransFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Brake Line

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Subaru Forester. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. When the master cylinder is disassembled or the reservoir tank is empty, bleed the master cylinder before bleeding the brake line. < Refer to MASTER CYLINDER , PROCEDURE, Air Bleeding. >
  2. Fill the reservoir tank of the master cylinder with brake fluid.
    NOTE:

    While bleeding air, keep the reservoir tank filled with brake fluid to prevent entry of air.

  3. Attach one end of the vinyl tube to the air bleeder and the other end to the brake fluid container.
    Fig 1: Connecting Brake Fluid Container To Bleeder Valve
    G05032807Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  4. Depress the brake pedal several times, and hold it.
  5. Loosen the air bleeder screw to drain brake fluid. Tighten the air bleeder quickly, and release the brake pedal.
    NOTE:

    Perform air bleed starting in the order from the farthest wheel cylinder from the master cylinder.

  6. Repeat the steps  4) to  5) until there are no more air bubbles in the vinyl tube.
  7. Repeat the steps from  2) to  6) above to bleed air from each wheel.
  8. Securely tighten the air bleeder screws.

    Tightening torque: 

    8 N.m (0.82 kgf-m, 5.9 ft-lb) 

  9. Check that there are no brake fluid leaks in the entire system.
  10. Check the pedal stroke.

    Run the engine at idle after warming up the engine, and depress the brake pedal with a force of 500 N (51 kgf, 112 lbf). Measure the distance between the brake pedal and steering wheel. Release the pedal, and measure the distance between pedal and steering wheel again.

    Fig 2: Identifying Toe Board And Steering Wheel
    G08565690Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.

    Specification of pedal stroke: 

    When depressing the pedal with a force of 500 N (51 kgf, 112 lbf). 

    110 mm (4.33 in) or less 

  11. If the distance is more than specification, there is a possibility of air being caught in the brake line. Bleed the brake line of all air until the pedal stroke meets the specification.
  12. Operate the hydraulic control unit in the sequence control mode. < Refer to ABS SEQUENCE CONTROL . >
  13. Check the pedal stroke again.
  14. If the distance is more than specification, there is a possibility of air being caught in the hydraulic unit. Repeat above steps  2) to  9) until the pedal stroke meets the specification.
  15. Fill the reservoir tank with brake fluid up to the "MAX" level.
  16. Test run the vehicle and ensure that the brakes operate normally.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.