Front end "clicking" from a dead stop

[Todd2010S.O.P.]

Just noticed a "clicking" coming from the front end. After I come to a complete stop and beging take my foot off of the brake pedal, I hear a metallic "click" sound. I'm guessing something to do with calipers. Any ideas? 2010 Outback 2.5 37,000 miles- Thanks!

[gbhrps]

Todd2010sop,

I think you nailed it when you thought it was the brake calipers. My 07 OBW LTD does the same thing (160 000 km).

Releasing the brakes allows the pistons to relax, and you're most likely hearing the pads and shims click back onto them, or something similar.

Twice a year I take everything apart, clean and lube as required. I've typically found that as the pads wear, there is usually some groans or clicks that show up when braking. It usually doesn't mean anything is wrong, but (in my opinion) usually has meant that things need another cleaning and lube. Slide pins get sticky or seize, pad end tabs get rusted or dirty enough that they hang up and don't release properly.

Your best approach is to have them inspected and cleaned and lubed if needed. Its much cheaper than replacing parts would be, and may erase your click annoyance. Then again you never know, maybe one of your pads may be separating from its backing plate, or a caliper bolt has come loose or is broken. Get it checked out to be sure. Good Luck!

[Todd2010S.O.P.]

Thanks for the response. I might just put new pads on while I have everything tore apart. I've worked on the "old" cars but not the new stuff. Hopefully I wont need that "special tool " to do the job! Thanks again.

[gbhrps]

No special tools are required. The pistons just push back into the caliper, rather than having to be screwed back in as some cars. I use either a large set of water pump pliers or a good sized C clamp to do the job. Good Luck!

[grossgary]

yes, check brakes.

is it still under warranty?