MikeC5 Posted September 1, 2016 Share Posted September 1, 2016 I searched and read through the brake upgrade threads here but still have some questions. I'd like to see if there is a 'low cost' upgrade to the stock brakes on my '03 Legacy L wagon w/AT. It has 2 piston calipers on front, single in rear and 16 inch wheels (which I'm pretty sure are the originals). Over the last few years I've replaced master cyl, rebuilt all calipers, installed new flexible lines, etc. and still the brakes do not feel very good. They are a little squishy (I have bled them 3 times since new flex lines) and just seem wimpier than the stock brakes on my '02 OB (5 speed). I don't think the OB rotors or calipers are any larger so I'm not sure why this would be. I'm using medium grade semi-metallic pads from Autozone on both cars. Is there a bolt on upgrade in the form of used Subaru brakes from another model that would improve things (street driving only)? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
98legwag Posted September 2, 2016 Share Posted September 2, 2016 4th gen GT brakes would be an upgrade. But you would have to run 17 inch wheels. But you can upgrade pads and rotors on what you have. On my 2nd gen I run Stoptech street pads and Hawk HPS pads on my 4th gen. I like them both. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MikeC5 Posted September 4, 2016 Author Share Posted September 4, 2016 I don't want to go to 17" wheels. Any other options? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rougeben83 Posted September 5, 2016 Share Posted September 5, 2016 WRX front brakes, or FHI 4 pot front brakes, or Nissan 4 post front brakes WITH certain 16" wheels (none OEM subaru unfortunately). Go to the brake sticky on NASIOC. It is much more comprehensive. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DonnyJagaru Posted September 8, 2016 Share Posted September 8, 2016 I recall someone joking that Subaru has a patent on spongy brakes. :/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MikeC5 Posted September 10, 2016 Author Share Posted September 10, 2016 How different can my '02 OB brakes be from this '03 Legacy? I need to get off my behind and see if disc diameters are different. The OB brakes feel better and the car is still on original master cylinder and flex lines... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MikeC5 Posted October 1, 2016 Author Share Posted October 1, 2016 It sems that '02 & 1/2 and up OB front rotors are 294mm compared to the 276mm rotors on the car now. Calipers are same so all I need is the mount brackets. The pads are different (a bit larger). Not a huge upgrade but should be noticeable. I'm not too worried about brake dust but would like pads with more bite (but must work in cold temps, 0 F, too) and quiet. Any recommendations? I've been using Autozone semi-metallics but am willing to pay more for something with better performance (less effort). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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