Your brakes are one of the most critical safety systems on your vehicle. They are responsible for bringing your 2017 Subaru Forester to a safe and controlled stop, protecting you and others on the road. Regular maintenance, including brake pad replacement, is essential to ensure your braking system performs optimally. Ignoring worn brake pads can lead to reduced braking effectiveness, increased stopping distances, and potentially dangerous situations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of changing brake pads on your 2017 Subaru Forester, empowering you to perform this essential maintenance task yourself.
Table of Contents
Understanding Your Brake System
Before diving into the brake pad replacement process, it’s crucial to understand the basic components of your Subaru Forester’s braking system. The brake system relies on hydraulic pressure to transfer force from the brake pedal to the brake calipers. When you press the brake pedal, brake fluid is pushed through lines to the calipers, which squeeze the brake pads against the brake rotors. This friction converts the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle into heat, effectively slowing or stopping the vehicle.
Brake Components
- Brake Pedal: The lever you press to activate the brakes.
- Master Cylinder: A hydraulic pump that generates pressure on the brake fluid.
- Brake Lines: Tubes that carry brake fluid from the master cylinder to the calipers.
- Brake Calipers: Pistons that clamp the brake pads onto the rotors.
- Brake Pads: Friction material that presses against the rotors to create braking force.
- Brake Rotors: Discs attached to the wheels that the brake pads grip.
Signs Your Brake Pads Need Replacing
Regularly inspecting your brake pads is essential for maintaining safe braking performance. Here are some common signs that your brake pads may need replacing:
- Squealing or Screeching Noise: A high-pitched squealing or screeching sound when braking often indicates that the brake pads are worn and the wear indicator is contacting the rotor.
- Grinding Noise: A grinding or metal-on-metal noise signifies severe brake pad wear and potential damage to the rotors.
- Vibration in the Brake Pedal: A pulsating or vibrating feeling in the brake pedal can be a sign of warped rotors, but it can also indicate worn brake pads.
- Reduced Braking Effectiveness: If you notice that your vehicle takes longer to stop than usual, it could be due to worn brake pads.
- Brake Warning Light: The brake warning light on your dashboard will illuminate if the brake system detects a problem, including low brake pad thickness.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more efficient.
| Tool/Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Jack and Jack Stands | For safely lifting and supporting the vehicle. |
| Lug Wrench | To remove and tighten the lug nuts on the wheels. |
| Socket Set | Various sizes of sockets for removing caliper bolts and other fasteners. |
| C-Clamp or Brake Caliper Piston Compressor Tool | To retract the caliper piston. |
| Brake Cleaner | To clean brake components and remove grease. |
| Torque Wrench | For tightening bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications. |
| New Brake Pads | Ensure you purchase brake pads compatible with your 2017 Subaru Forester. |
| Brake Lubricant | To lubricate caliper pins and other moving parts. |
Step-by-Step Brake Pad Replacement Guide
Now that you have the necessary tools and materials, let’s proceed with the brake pad replacement process. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your vehicle’s repair manual for specific instructions and torque specifications.
1. Preparing the Vehicle
Park your Subaru Forester on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Chock the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Locate the jack points on your vehicle’s frame and carefully lift the front of the vehicle using the jack. Securely position jack stands under the designated jack points to support the vehicle’s weight. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Removing the Wheel
Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on. Once loosened, remove the lug nuts completely. Carefully pull the wheel off the hub. Set the wheel aside in a safe location. (See Also: How Many Mm New Brake Pads? Essential Guide)
3. Accessing the Brake Caliper
The brake caliper is the component that houses the brake pads. You’ll see two caliper bolts holding the caliper to the steering knuckle. Use a socket wrench to remove these bolts. Be careful not to drop the bolts into the wheel well.
4. Retracting the Caliper Piston
With the caliper bolts removed, gently lift the caliper off the brake rotor. You’ll need to compress the caliper piston to make room for the new, thicker brake pads. Use a C-clamp or a specialized brake caliper piston compressor tool to slowly and evenly compress the piston. Avoid damaging the piston seal.
5. Removing the Old Brake Pads
The old brake pads are held in place by clips or pins. Remove these clips or pins to free the brake pads. Inspect the brake pads for excessive wear or damage. Note the orientation of the old brake pads, as the new pads may have a specific installation direction.
6. Installing the New Brake Pads
Apply a thin layer of brake lubricant to the back of the new brake pads where they contact the caliper. This helps reduce friction and wear. Insert the new brake pads into the caliper, ensuring they are properly seated and aligned. Reinstall the clips or pins that hold the brake pads in place.
7. Reassembling the Caliper
Carefully lower the caliper back onto the brake rotor. Align the caliper bolts with the holes in the steering knuckle. Hand-tighten the caliper bolts to ensure they are properly seated. Then, use a torque wrench to tighten the caliper bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque. (See Also: How Much Are Brake Rotors and Pads? Cost Breakdown)
8. Reinstalling the Wheel
Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle using the jack. Once the vehicle is on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure distribution. Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
9. Repeat for the Other Side
Follow the same steps to replace the brake pads on the other front wheel. Remember to always work safely and consult your vehicle’s repair manual for specific instructions and torque specifications.
Conclusion: Safe and Effective Braking
Changing brake pads on your 2017 Subaru Forester is a relatively straightforward maintenance task that can be accomplished with the right tools, materials, and knowledge. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your braking system is in optimal condition, providing you with the confidence and safety you need on the road. Remember, regular brake pad inspections and timely replacements are crucial for maintaining safe and effective braking performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of brake pads are best for my 2017 Subaru Forester?
The best brake pads for your 2017 Subaru Forester will depend on your driving habits and preferences. Consider factors such as stopping power, noise levels, and dust production. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) brake pads are a good starting point, as they are designed to meet the vehicle’s specifications. You can also explore aftermarket brake pads from reputable brands that offer various performance levels and materials.
How often should I change my brake pads?
The recommended brake pad replacement interval varies depending on driving conditions and habits. As a general guideline, it’s a good idea to inspect your brake pads every 12,000 miles or so. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, such as squealing noises or reduced braking effectiveness, it’s time for a replacement. Aggressive driving, frequent stop-and-go traffic, and driving in hilly or mountainous areas can accelerate brake pad wear.
Can I use brake cleaner on my brake rotors?
Yes, brake cleaner can be used to clean brake rotors, but it’s important to do so carefully. Avoid getting brake cleaner on the brake pads or caliper components. After cleaning, allow the rotors to dry completely before reinstalling the brake pads and caliper. Excessive moisture on the rotors can lead to reduced braking performance. (See Also: What Is a Common Cause of Brake Failure? Warning Signs Revealed)
What is the purpose of the wear indicator on brake pads?
The wear indicator is a small metal tab embedded in the brake pad. As the brake pad wears down, the tab eventually contacts the rotor, creating a high-pitched squealing noise. This noise serves as a warning that your brake pads are nearing the end of their service life and need to be replaced soon.
What are the potential dangers of driving with worn brake pads?
Driving with worn brake pads can significantly compromise your vehicle’s braking performance, putting you and others at risk. Worn brake pads reduce the friction between the pads and the rotors, leading to longer stopping distances. This can increase the risk of accidents, especially in emergency situations. Additionally, severely worn brake pads can damage the rotors, leading to further braking problems and costly repairs.
