Parts for your 2013 Subaru Impreza-Brake shoes

2013 Subaru Impreza brake shoes — what they do and when to replace them

Brake shoes are absolutely relevant to the 2013 Subaru Impreza. Technical references including the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the GP/GJ series (2012–2016), Subaru’s official parts catalogue, and major aftermarket catalogues used in Australia and New Zealand all show two configurations for this model: some trims run rear drum brakes (service brake shoes), and trims with rear disc brakes still use small drum-in-hat handbrake shoes inside the rear rotors. Either way, there are brake shoes on the car — they’re just used differently depending on the rear brake setup.

On rear drum models, the brake shoes are the primary rear stoppers, pressing outwards against the drum to slow the car. On disc-brake models, the rear stopping is handled by calipers and pads, while a separate set of small shoes sits inside the “hat” of the rotor purely for the mechanical handbrake. Subaru’s service documentation details inspection, adjustment and replacement of these shoes, and parts listings in AU/NZ catalogues back that up with specific shoe and hardware kits for both versions.

For owners, the job of the brake shoes is straightforward: deliver steady friction and a confident hold when parked. The shop will often check them at regular servicing (every 12 months/12,500 km is a common Subaru interval here), or any time the rear rotors/drums are off. Typical signs they’re due include a weak handbrake on hills, a longer lever travel, scraping noises from the rear, or uneven braking if the car has rear drum service brakes.

• Adjustment: Handbrake shoes (drum-in-hat) need periodic adjustment via the star wheel so the lever bites by the recommended number of clicks without dragging.
• Replacement: Always replace shoes in axle pairs and fit new hardware (springs/clips). Clean and lightly lubricate backing plate contact points with high-temp brake grease.
• Extra checks: Inspect the handbrake cables for stretch or binding, and on drum service brakes, check wheel cylinders for leaks.
• Bed-in: After replacement, perform gentle bedding — a few low-speed applications of the handbrake on flat ground helps the linings bed to the drum surface.

As a guide, handbrake shoes on disc-brake cars can last well over 100,000 km if not driven on, while rear drum service shoes wear faster, often 40,000–80,000 km depending on driving and load. A good technician will also avoid contaminating the linings, protect nearby ABS wiring, and torque everything to spec so the Impreza stops and holds like it should.

Popular questions

Does my 2013 Impreza have rear drums or rear discs?
It depends on the trim. Base variants commonly came with rear drum brakes, while higher trims used rear discs. Even with rear discs, there are still drum-style handbrake shoes inside the rotor. A quick glance through the wheel or a rego/parts lookup will confirm which setup yours has.

How often should the handbrake shoes be adjusted?
They’re usually checked at routine services and adjusted when lever travel gets long or the car won’t hold as firmly on hills. Many workshops inspect and tweak them every 20,000–30,000 km, or whenever the rear rotors are off.

What are the symptoms of worn brake shoes?
Common clues include a weak or high-travel handbrake, scraping noises, pulsation or pulling (on drum service brakes), or a burning smell after heavy use. If any of these crop up, it’s worth getting a brake inspection promptly.