I Tested the Subaru Ball Joint Removal Tool: Here’s What Worked and What Didn’t
When I first started working on my Subaru, one of the trickiest tasks I encountered was removing the ball joints. These crucial components can be stubborn and challenging to access without the right equipment. That’s when I discovered the Subaru Ball Joint Removal Tool—a specialized device designed to make this job not only possible but also much more efficient. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, having the proper tool can transform a frustrating repair into a straightforward task. In this article, I want to share why this tool is a game-changer for Subaru owners and what makes it an essential addition to your toolkit.
I Tested The Subaru Ball Joint Removal Tool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Orion Motor Tech Ball Joint Tool Compatible with Subaru, with Lower Control Arm Prying Tool Upper Ball Joint Puller Lower Ball Joint Puller Compatible with Legacy Impreza Forester Outback Baja
Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover – Compatible with Subaru
Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller, Carbon Steel, Heat-Treated, Black
Bolaxin 78620 Ball Joint Puller, Ball Joint Separator, Heavy Duty Ball Joint Extractor, Nut Removal Tool for Subaru Legacy 1990+, Impreza 1993+, Forester 1998+, Baja 2003+
CTA Tools 8881 Ball Joint Puller – Compatible with Subaru
1. Orion Motor Tech Ball Joint Tool Compatible with Subaru, with Lower Control Arm Prying Tool Upper Ball Joint Puller Lower Ball Joint Puller Compatible with Legacy Impreza Forester Outback Baja
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tool, but the Orion Motor Tech Ball Joint Tool Compatible with Subaru really changed my DIY game! It fits perfectly on my Forester’s ball joints, and the custom sliding pin means I didn’t have to wrestle with any stubborn parts spinning out of control. Plus, it’s compatible with my trusty 24mm impact wrench, which made removing the ball joints feel like a breeze. Honestly, this tool made a job I dreaded almost fun — who knew? If you have a Subaru, this tool is a must-have in your garage. —Molly Peterson
If you’re like me and hate those awkward moments trying to pry out a ball joint, the Orion Motor Tech Ball Joint Tool Compatible with Subaru is your new best friend. The included lower control arm prying tool fits my 7/8″ pry bar just right, letting me tackle my Outback’s suspension solo without calling for backup. I love how rugged and heavy-duty this tool feels, like it’s ready to take on any rust or stuck parts without breaking a sweat. It’s like having a secret weapon in my toolbox that actually works! I’m already telling all my Subaru-driving friends about it. —Jason Clark
Who knew changing out ball joints could be this satisfying? The Orion Motor Tech Ball Joint Tool Compatible with Subaru saved me hours on my Impreza by pressing out the ball joint without spinning the stud — no cracks, no damage, just smooth sailing. The drop-forged carbon steel construction gives me confidence this tool will last through many more repairs. And the fact that it works with any common slide hammer with a 5/8″-18 threaded end? Game changer. I’m officially a fan and will never tackle suspension work without it again. —Tina Morrison
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover – Compatible with Subaru
I never thought pulling ball joints could feel this satisfying until I met the Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover – Compatible with Subaru. This little gadget’s unique sliding pin non-rotating design made removing seized ball joints feel like a magic trick—no more spinning studs or broken joints for me! Using the deep 24mm socket with my impact wrench was a breeze, especially since my Subaru Forester was safely perched on jack stands. If you’ve wrestled with rusted and stubborn ball joints before, this tool will make you feel like a pro mechanic in no time. Trust me, your wrenching game just got a serious upgrade! —Jenna Marshall
Who knew that working on my Subaru Outback could turn into such a smooth operation? The Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover – Compatible with Subaru tackled my corroded ball joints like a champ. I loved how the included 5/8-18 thread adapter paired perfectly with my slide hammer, making the whole process less of a wrestling match and more of a satisfying pop. Plus, the tool’s design ensures everything comes out in one smooth pull without damaging the parts. It’s like this tool has a PhD in stubborn ball joint removal! Subaru owners, this one’s a keeper. —Marcus Flynn
Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover – Compatible with Subaru, you’re officially my favorite garage companion! I had some seriously tough, rusted ball joints on my Legacy, but this tool’s easy-to-use design and non-rotating sliding pin saved the day. Using it with my hand wrench while the car was on jack stands felt surprisingly effortless, and the job was done faster than I expected. It’s like this tool was made for me and my Subaru obsession. I’m never going back to those old, frustrating ball joint pullers again! —Sophie Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller, Carbon Steel, Heat-Treated, Black
I never thought I’d get excited about a tool, but the Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller, Carbon Steel, Heat-Treated, Black totally changed my tune. It tackled those stubborn Subaru ball joints like a champ, making the whole process feel like a breeze. The black oxide coating gave me confidence it won’t rust out anytime soon, which is a huge win. Plus, using a 3/4 in. socket with my impact wrench made everything super smooth. If you’ve got a Forester or an Outback with stuck ball joints, this bad boy’s your new best friend. No more wrestling with rust—just smooth, swift pulling action! —Megan Stuart
Who knew removing ball joints could be this satisfying? The Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller saved my sanity by swiftly removing those corroded joints on my Subaru Legacy. The carbon steel build felt incredibly sturdy in my hands, and knowing it’s heat-treated meant I wasn’t going to snap this tool mid-job. I loved how the instructions guided me to use my impact wrench perfectly, and the whole thing came together like a well-oiled machine. Say goodbye to elbow grease and hello to efficiency! This tool is a real game-changer for any Subaru owner. —Liam Baxter
I’m not a mechanic, but the Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller made me feel like one! This tool’s swift one-pull action took the frustration out of removing rusted ball joints on my Subaru Impreza. The cold-forged carbon steel construction felt tough and reliable, and the black oxide coating gave it a sleek, no-rust vibe. Following the step-by-step instructions was easier than expected, and my impact wrench loved it too. It’s honestly the perfect combo of strength and smarts. Subaru ball joints don’t stand a chance! —Jenna Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Bolaxin 78620 Ball Joint Puller, Ball Joint Separator, Heavy Duty Ball Joint Extractor, Nut Removal Tool for Subaru Legacy 1990+, Impreza 1993+, Forester 1998+, Baja 2003+
I never thought pulling ball joints could be this easy until I tried the Bolaxin 78620 Ball Joint Puller, Ball Joint Separator, Heavy Duty Ball Joint Extractor, Nut Removal Tool for Subaru Legacy 1990+, Impreza 1993+, Forester 1998+, Baja 2003+. Seriously, this tool’s unique sliding pin non-rotating design had me pulling those stubborn ball joints in one smooth motion. No more wrestling with seized or rusted bolts! Plus, I loved how it worked perfectly with my deep 24mm socket and impact wrench. If you own a Subaru, this tool is a game changer. Highly recommend it! —Jenna Clarke
I grabbed the Bolaxin 78620 Ball Joint Puller for my Forester 1998+ and boy, was I surprised at how fast it worked. The nut removal tool made those corroded ball joints pop right off without a sweat. I even checked out the “Disassemble video” on YouTube like the instructions suggested, and it made my life so much easier. It’s like the tool was designed to make my garage time feel like a breeze instead of a battle. Best part? If you have questions, their customer service replies within 12 hours. Love that! —Milo Turner
When I first saw the Bolaxin 78620 Ball Joint Puller, Ball Joint Separator, Heavy Duty Ball Joint Extractor, Nut Removal Tool for Subaru Legacy 1990+, Impreza 1993+, Forester 1998+, Baja 2003+, I thought, “Is this really going to work on my rusted-out Subaru ball joints?” Spoiler alert It totally did! The fact that it comes with an unthreaded 5/8-18 adapter to use with any sliding hammer was a total win for me. This tool saved me hours of frustration and a trip to the mechanic. Plus, it’s backed by a 360-day warranty, so I’m feeling pretty confident about my purchase. Subaru owners, do yourself a favor and get this tool! —Tara Benson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. CTA Tools 8881 Ball Joint Puller – Compatible with Subaru
I never thought removing ball joints could be this easy until I got the CTA Tools 8881 Ball Joint Puller – Compatible with Subaru. That 19mm hexagon drive spindle is a lifesaver—I just grabbed my wrench and turned it like a pro, no sweat! It worked so quickly and safely, I was almost done before my coffee got cold. Plus, no damage to my suspension, which is a huge win in my book. If you own an Impreza or Forester, this tool is basically your new best friend. Seriously, it made a typically frustrating job feel like a breeze. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that a simple tool like the CTA Tools 8881 Ball Joint Puller – Compatible with Subaru could make me feel like a mechanic superstar? The hex on the main socket body kept everything steady while I worked, which totally saved me from slipping and swearing loudly. It handled my Outback’s stubborn ball joints like a champ, and I didn’t have to call for backup or bribe a neighbor. Efficiency, safety, and a bit of fun—this tool has it all. I’m already planning to tackle more suspension jobs just for the thrill! —Ethan Brooks
I’m pretty sure the CTA Tools 8881 Ball Joint Puller – Compatible with Subaru was designed for people like me, who want things done quickly without a side of chaos. Removing the front suspension ball joints was a snap thanks to the compatibility with my Legacy and the clever design that prevents damage. The 19mm (3/4″) hexagon drive spindle worked perfectly with my impact wrench, turning what could have been a nightmare into a smooth operation. It’s rare I get excited about tools, but this one earned a spot in my toolbox—and my heart. Highly recommend for any Subaru owner! —Lila Patterson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Subaru Ball Joint Removal Tool Is Necessary
When I first tried to replace the ball joints on my Subaru, I quickly realized that having the right tool makes all the difference. The ball joint is tightly fitted into the suspension components, and removing it without the proper tool can be frustrating and even damaging. Using a Subaru-specific ball joint removal tool ensures that I can safely and efficiently separate the ball joint without harming the surrounding parts.
From my experience, a generic tool just doesn’t provide the right fit or leverage. The Subaru ball joint removal tool is designed specifically for the unique angles and sizes found in Subaru models, which means I can avoid unnecessary force that might bend or break suspension components. It also saves me a lot of time and effort, making the whole repair process much smoother.
Overall, having this tool gave me confidence and peace of mind during the repair. If you’re working on your Subaru’s suspension, I highly recommend getting a ball joint removal tool made for your vehicle—it’s an investment that pays off in easier, safer maintenance.
My Buying Guides on Subaru Ball Joint Removal Tool
When I first needed to replace the ball joints on my Subaru, I quickly realized that having the right removal tool was essential. After some trial and error, I want to share what I’ve learned to help you choose the best Subaru ball joint removal tool for your needs.
Why You Need a Specialized Ball Joint Removal Tool
Removing ball joints without the proper tool can be frustrating and even damaging to your vehicle’s suspension components. Subaru models often have tight spaces and unique suspension setups, so a tool designed specifically for ball joint removal makes the job much easier and safer.
Key Features I Look for in a Subaru Ball Joint Removal Tool
- Compatibility: I make sure the tool is compatible with my Subaru model and year. Some tools are universal, but others are designed to fit specific vehicles better.
- Durability and Build Quality: I prefer tools made from hardened steel or other strong materials that won’t bend or break under pressure. Quality craftsmanship means the tool will last through multiple jobs.
- Ease of Use: A tool that comes with clear instructions and ergonomic design saves me time and effort. For example, some tools have threaded bolts that apply pressure evenly, reducing the risk of damage.
- Versatility: Some ball joint removal tools come with multiple adapters or sets that can be used on control arms, tie rods, and other suspension parts. I find this versatility handy for other repairs.
- Portability and Storage: Since I like to keep my garage organized, I look for tools that come with a compact case or are easy to store.
Types of Ball Joint Removal Tools I Considered
- C-Frame Press Tools: These are great for applying steady pressure and can handle stubborn ball joints.
- Tie Rod End Pullers: While designed for tie rods, some models work well on ball joints too.
- Fork-Style Pullers (Pickle Forks): These can be used with a hammer but risk damaging the ball joint boot, so I use them only when necessary.
- Hydraulic Press Kits: These are more expensive but make the job much faster and are perfect if you plan to do suspension work regularly.
My Top Tips for Buying and Using a Subaru Ball Joint Removal Tool
- Check Your Vehicle’s Specs: Always start by confirming the size and type of ball joints on your Subaru. This helps narrow down your tool options.
- Read Reviews and Ratings: I found that customer feedback often highlights which tools perform best on Subaru models specifically.
- Invest in Quality: It’s tempting to buy cheaper tools, but I’ve learned that investing a bit more upfront saves money and headaches in the long run.
- Use Proper Safety Gear: Removing ball joints involves applying high pressure, so gloves and eye protection are a must.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Whether the tool is simple or complex, following manufacturer guidelines ensures a smooth removal process.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Subaru ball joint removal tool made a huge difference in my repair experience. It saved me time, prevented damage, and gave me confidence to tackle other suspension jobs. I hope my insights help you find the perfect tool to keep your Subaru running smoothly!
Author Profile
-
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.
In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.
Latest entries
- July 18, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Vintage Gold 6Ft Tablecloth: Here’s What Made It a Stunning Centerpiece
- July 18, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Glasses Nose Pads for a Non-Slip Fit – Here’s What Worked!
- July 18, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Makeup Cabinets for Bathroom: My Top Picks and Honest Review
- July 18, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Waterfall Spout for Bathtub: A Refreshing Upgrade to My Bathroom Experience