Front Drive Shaft: Removal

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.

Lift up the vehicle, and then remove the front wheels.
Lift the crimped section of axle nut.

Fig 1: Lifting Crimped Section Of Axle Nut
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the axle nut using a socket wrench while depressing the brake pedal.
CAUTION: Remove the wheel before loosening the axle nut. Failure to follow this rule may damage the wheel bearings.
Drain gear oil from the transmission. (MT model)
Drain differential gear oil from the transmission. (AT model)
Remove the stabilizer link from front arm.
Disconnect the front arm ball joint from the housing.

Fig 2: Locating Front Arm Ball Joint
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the front drive shaft assembly. If it is hard to remove, use ST1 and ST2.
ST1 926470000 AXLE SHAFT PULLER

ST2 28099PA110 AXLE SHAFT PULLER PLATE

Fig 3: Removing Front Drive Shaft Assembly From Hub
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Using a bar, remove the front drive shaft from transmission.
CAUTION: Be careful not to allow the bar to damage holder area.