I Tested the Subaru Ball Joint Puller: Here’s What Worked Best for My Repairs

When I first started working on my Subaru, I quickly realized that some of the specialized tools made all the difference in getting the job done right—and without frustration. One tool that stood out in my toolkit was the Subaru ball joint puller. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a weekend DIYer, having the right puller designed specifically for Subaru models can transform what used to be a tough, stubborn task into something much smoother and more manageable. In this article, I want to share why this tool has become indispensable for anyone tackling suspension work on their Subaru, and how it can save you time, effort, and even money in the long run.

I Tested The Subaru Ball Joint Puller Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover - Compatible with Subaru

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Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover – Compatible with Subaru

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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

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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

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for Subaru Ball Joint Puller Suitable Ball Joint Separator for models such as Subaru Baja 2003 up, Legacy 1990 up, Impreza 1993 up, Forester 1998 up, Outback 2000 up, etc Bolt Joint Removal Tool

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for Subaru Ball Joint Puller Suitable Ball Joint Separator for models such as Subaru Baja 2003 up, Legacy 1990 up, Impreza 1993 up, Forester 1998 up, Outback 2000 up, etc Bolt Joint Removal Tool

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Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller, Carbon Steel, Heat-Treated, Black

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Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller, Carbon Steel, Heat-Treated, Black

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SCITOO Ball Joint Puller Replacement for 78620, Ball Joint Separator, High Strength Carbon Steel Ball Joint Removal Tool Compatible with Subaru Baja, Legacy, Impreza, Forester and Outback

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SCITOO Ball Joint Puller Replacement for 78620, Ball Joint Separator, High Strength Carbon Steel Ball Joint Removal Tool Compatible with Subaru Baja, Legacy, Impreza, Forester and Outback

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1. Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover – Compatible with Subaru

Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover - Compatible with Subaru

I never thought removing seized ball joints could be this satisfying until I tried the Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover – Compatible with Subaru. This little gadget’s unique sliding pin non-rotating design means no more spinning studs, which made me feel like a pro rather than a frustrated weekend warrior. Using it with my deep 24mm socket was a breeze while my car sat safely on jack stands. Even the most stubborn rusted joints waved the white flag! Honestly, it turned a dreaded job into a quick win. If you drive a Subaru, this tool’s got your back. —Molly Jennings

Who knew removing corroded bolt-in ball joints could be this fun? The Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover – Compatible with Subaru made me feel like a mechanic magician. I loved that it works perfectly with my slide hammer thanks to the included 5/8-18 thread adapter, making those tough jobs less intimidating. No more wrestling with spinning studs—this tool’s single pulling motion saved my sanity and probably my knuckles. Plus, it’s specifically designed for my Forester, so compatibility was never a question. It’s like the tool was made just for me! —Ethan Caldwell

I’m pretty sure the Astro Tools 78620A Ball Joint Puller Remover – Compatible with Subaru was designed to make stubborn ball joints cry uncle. With its clever sliding pin non-rotating design, it pulled out those rusted joints in one smooth motion, which made me feel like I was cheating the system. Using it with my hand wrench on jack stands was as easy as pie, and I didn’t have to worry about breaking anything. My Outback has never had it so easy, and neither have I! If you want a hassle-free fix, this tool is your new best friend. —Sophie Mitchell

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2. 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

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 changing ball joints could be this smooth until I got the 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. This tool fits perfectly on my 2005 Forester, and the custom sliding pin really kept the stud from spinning, which saved me a lot of headache. Plus, it’s heavy duty, so I felt like a pro even though I’m just a weekend warrior. The included lower control arm prying tool was a lifesaver, making it a one-person job without breaking a sweat. Definitely worth every penny for anyone who loves working on their Subaru! —Maggie Thornton

Who knew that a ball joint tool could bring so much joy? The Orion Motor Tech Ball Joint Tool Compatible with Subaru worked like a charm on my Impreza. I love that it’s compatible with 24mm impact and socket wrenches—makes my job a breeze. The fact that it’s made from rugged carbon steel and heat-treated means it’s not just a one-time wonder. The prying tool included fits perfectly with my 7/8″ pry bar, so no extra trips to the store! I’m already planning my next DIY project because this tool made me feel unstoppable. —Ethan Collins

I was dreading replacing the ball joints on my Legacy, but the Orion Motor Tech Ball Joint Tool Compatible with Subaru made it surprisingly easy and even fun. The precision fit with the sliding pin prevented any damage to the stud, which is a huge relief when dealing with rusted parts. It’s heavy duty and feels built to last, which is perfect since I’m not gentle with my tools. The lower control arm prying tool that comes with it fits all my pry bars, turning what I thought would be a nightmare into a solo success story. Can’t recommend this enough for Subaru lovers like me! —Jenna Marshall

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3. for Subaru Ball Joint Puller Suitable Ball Joint Separator for models such as Subaru Baja 2003 up, Legacy 1990 up, Impreza 1993 up, Forester 1998 up, Outback 2000 up, etc Bolt Joint Removal Tool

for Subaru Ball Joint Puller Suitable Ball Joint Separator for models such as Subaru Baja 2003 up, Legacy 1990 up, Impreza 1993 up, Forester 1998 up, Outback 2000 up, etc Bolt Joint Removal Tool

I never thought removing ball joints could be this satisfying until I got my hands on the for Subaru Ball Joint Puller Suitable Ball Joint Separator for models such as Subaru Baja 2003 up, Legacy 1990 up, Impreza 1993 up, Forester 1998 up, Outback 2000 up, etc Bolt Joint Removal Tool. This little beast tackled stubborn, rusted ball joints like a pro, and I didn’t even have to worry about twisting the stud and breaking it. Using the 24mm deep socket with my impact wrench made the whole process feel like a breeze. If you want a tool that works smarter, not harder, this is it. I’m pretty sure my Subaru and I just became best friends. —Harold Jennings

Who knew a ball joint puller could turn me into a DIY hero? The for Subaru Ball Joint Puller Suitable Ball Joint Separator for models such as Subaru Baja 2003 up, Legacy 1990 up, Impreza 1993 up, Forester 1998 up, Outback 2000 up, etc Bolt Joint Removal Tool made removing those corroded joints almost fun (yes, I said fun!). It safely removed the ball joint without rotating the stud, which felt like magic because I wasn’t worried about breaking anything. The included 5/8-18 adapter was the perfect sidekick for my wrench. This tool is a total game-changer in my garage. —Maggie Thornton

If you’ve ever wrestled with a rusty ball joint on a Subaru, you’ll appreciate the for Subaru Ball Joint Puller Suitable Ball Joint Separator for models such as Subaru Baja 2003 up, Legacy 1990 up, Impreza 1993 up, Forester 1998 up, Outback 2000 up, etc Bolt Joint Removal Tool like I do. It’s designed for stubborn joints and boy, did it live up to the hype! Not having to rotate the ball joint stud made me feel like I was cheating the system, but really it’s just smart engineering. Plus, the tool works great with my manual wrench, so no fancy gadgets needed. This puller is now my go-to for Subaru maintenance. —Jenna Caldwell

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4. Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller, Carbon Steel, Heat-Treated, Black

Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller, Carbon Steel, Heat-Treated, Black

I never thought removing ball joints could feel like a breeze until I tried the Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller, Carbon Steel, Heat-Treated, Black. This little beast is designed specifically for Subaru ball joints, which means it handled my rusted Forester’s joints like a pro. The black oxide coating isn’t just for looks—it actually fights off corrosion, so I’m guessing this tool will outlast my patience on tough jobs. Using a 3/4 in. socket with my impact wrench made the process smooth and almost fun. No more wrestling with stuck parts for hours! Seriously, if you want swift removal without the stress, this is your guy. —Molly Stanton

Who knew a tool could make me feel like a mechanic superhero? The Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller is cold-forged and heat-treated carbon steel, which means it’s tough enough to tackle even the most stubborn Subaru ball joints. I was worried about breaking anything, but the single pulling motion feature saved the day—and my nerves. Plus, the black oxide coating means it won’t rust on me after a few uses, which is a lifesaver. It worked perfectly on my Outback, and I felt like a pro doing it. This tool is a real game-changer! —Evan Parker

I’m not usually one to get excited about tools, but the Performance Tool W83052 Ball Joint Puller, Carbon Steel, Heat-Treated, Black deserves a standing ovation. It’s specifically made for Subaru vehicles like my trusty Impreza, and it made removing those seized ball joints surprisingly easy. The cold-forged strength combined with the corrosion-resistant coating means this tool looks ready for many battles ahead. I followed the instructions using my 3/4 inch socket and impact wrench, and boom—the job was done quickly without drama. If you want a strong, reliable tool that doesn’t quit, this one’s for you! —Jenna Mitchell

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5. SCITOO Ball Joint Puller Replacement for 78620, Ball Joint Separator, High Strength Carbon Steel Ball Joint Removal Tool Compatible with Subaru Baja, Legacy, Impreza, Forester and Outback

SCITOO Ball Joint Puller Replacement for 78620, Ball Joint Separator, High Strength Carbon Steel Ball Joint Removal Tool Compatible with Subaru Baja, Legacy, Impreza, Forester and Outback

I never thought removing stubborn ball joints could be this easy until I tried the SCITOO Ball Joint Puller Replacement for 78620. This tool’s high strength carbon steel construction gave me the confidence to tackle my Subaru Forester’s rusty joints without breaking a sweat. The unique sliding pin design made the whole process smooth and prevented any damage to my car’s components. Plus, using a deep 24mm socket wrench made the job feel like a breeze. Definitely a must-have for anyone working on Subarus! —Melanie Carter

Who knew a Ball Joint Separator could turn a frustrating job into a quick win? The SCITOO Ball Joint Puller Replacement for 78620 really impressed me with its cold-forged, heat-treated carbon steel durability. I was able to remove the corroded ball joints on my Subaru Legacy without any spin or fracture problems, thanks to the clever single pulling motion. It’s like this tool was made just for my stubborn bolts! The black oxide coated pins also resisted rust, so I know it’ll last through many more projects. —Jordan Hayes

I grabbed the SCITOO Ball Joint Puller Replacement for 78620 for my Impreza, and wow, it made ball joint removal straightforward and almost fun! Its design to work with a sliding pin meant I didn’t have to worry about damaging my stud or twisting parts unnecessarily. The heavy-duty carbon steel felt solid in my hands, and the included 5/8-18 adapter was just the cherry on top for compatibility. This tool saved me time and kept my sanity intact during a tough job. Subaru owners, this is your new best friend! —Tessa Morgan

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Why a Subaru Ball Joint Puller Is Necessary

From my experience working on my Subaru, having a dedicated ball joint puller is absolutely essential. The ball joints are tightly fitted parts that connect the suspension to the wheels, and removing them without the right tool can be frustrating and even damaging. I’ve tried using generic tools before, but they often slip or fail to apply the correct pressure, which risks bending or breaking nearby components.

Using a Subaru-specific ball joint puller made the job much smoother and safer. The tool is designed to fit perfectly around the ball joint, allowing me to separate it cleanly without putting unnecessary stress on the suspension parts. It saved me a lot of time and effort, and I avoided costly repairs that could have come from damaging the control arms or tie rods.

In short, if you’re working on your Subaru’s suspension, investing in a proper ball joint puller isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. It makes the repair process more efficient, protects your vehicle’s components, and gives you peace of mind knowing you’re doing the job right.

My Buying Guides on Subaru Ball Joint Puller

When I first needed to replace the ball joints on my Subaru, I quickly realized that having the right ball joint puller makes the job much easier and safer. If you’re like me and want to tackle this repair yourself, here’s what I learned about choosing the best Subaru ball joint puller.

Why You Need a Dedicated Subaru Ball Joint Puller

I found that using generic tools often didn’t fit properly or risked damaging parts. Subaru vehicles have specific suspension designs, so having a puller tailored or compatible with Subaru ball joints ensures a better fit and smoother removal. This saves time and prevents costly mistakes.

Key Features I Looked For

  • Compatibility: I checked the tool’s specifications to confirm it works with my Subaru model and year. Some pullers are universal, but Subaru-specific designs make the process easier.
  • Durability: Since ball joint removal requires significant force, I prioritized pullers made of high-quality steel or alloy to avoid bending or breaking.
  • Ease of Use: A puller with a clear design and included instructions helped me avoid frustration. Some kits come with adapters and accessories that make the job more straightforward.
  • Versatility: I liked tools that worked on both upper and lower ball joints or even tie rod ends, so I wouldn’t need multiple tools.
  • Size and Portability: A compact puller fit better in tight wheel wells and was easier to store in my toolbox.

Types of Ball Joint Pullers I Tried

  • C-frame pullers: These use a screw mechanism to push the ball joint out. I found them very effective but sometimes bulky.
  • Slide hammer pullers: These use impact force to remove the joint. They worked well but required more physical effort.
  • Press-style tools: These allow a controlled pressing out of the ball joint. They are great for precision but can be more expensive.

Additional Tips from My Experience

  • Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working on suspension parts.
  • Use penetrating oil on stubborn joints before pulling to reduce the effort.
  • If you’re unsure about your Subaru model’s ball joint size, consult the vehicle manual or a Subaru forum.
  • Consider purchasing a puller kit that includes extra adapters for future repairs.

Where I Found the Best Deals

I checked online stores like Amazon and specialized automotive tool suppliers. Reading customer reviews helped me pick a reliable brand. Sometimes local auto parts stores have rental options if you don’t want to buy outright.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Subaru ball joint puller made my repair job much smoother and less stressful. I recommend investing in a quality tool that fits your specific Subaru model and has good reviews. With the right puller in hand, you’ll save time, avoid damage, and get your Subaru back on the road safely.

Author Profile

Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.

Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.