Parts for your 1998 Subaru Forester-Pedal pads

1998 Subaru Forester Pedal Pads

Technical sources confirm the 1998 Subaru Forester uses pedal pads. The Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue for the SF-series (MY1997–2002) lists a rubber “Pad – Pedal” for the brake and clutch pedals (commonly Subaru p/n 36023AC030), and the 1998 Forester Factory Service Manual (sections BR: Brake and CL: Clutch) calls for inspecting the pedal rubber for wear and replacing if it’s hardened, cracked, polished, or loose. That makes pedal pads a relevant, factory-fitted item on this model.

On a 1998 Forester, pedal pads do the simple but vital job of providing secure grip for the driver’s footwear, especially in the wet. They also soften pedal feel a touch and help maintain consistent pedal height and compliance with design specs. Manual-transmission cars run pads on both brake and clutch pedals, autos have the brake pad only. The accelerator typically uses a different moulded face and isn’t the same service part as the brake/clutch pad.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check the pads every 10,000 km or six months. If the rubber looks shiny, has cracks, feels hard or slippery, or the raised pattern is worn flat—particularly around the edges—it’s time to swap them out. A missing or loose pad is a safety risk and can also attract attention during WoF (NZ) or RWC (AU) inspections.

Replacement is a quick, driveway-friendly job. The old pad peels off the metal pedal plate, the new one is worked on from the bottom lip first, then stretched over the sides and top until the rubber bead fully seats in the pedal’s perimeter. No glue, no trimming—if it doesn’t seat neatly, it’s the wrong part. While there, the metal pedal face should be cleaned and checked for corrosion so the new pad sits flat.

Care tips to make them last:

• Clean with mild soap and water, avoid silicone dressings that make rubber slippery.
• Knock off sand and gravel that can act like sandpaper on the pad surface.
• Use genuine or quality aftermarket pads with a proper non-slip pattern, they’re inexpensive and fit correctly.

With grippy, fresh pedal pads, the Forester’s brake and clutch feel more predictable, especially on rainy days or after a beach run. It’s low-cost preventative maintenance that pays off every drive.

How can someone tell if their 1998 Forester’s pedal pads need replacing?

Look for cracks, hardening, or a glossy, polished surface that feels slippery—especially when damp. If the edge lip has worn smooth, the pad is thinning, or it can be wiggled on the metal pedal, it’s due. Any missing pad should be replaced immediately for safety and to keep WoF/RWC inspectors happy.

Are the pads the same on manual and automatic models?

The brake pedal pad is the same style across both, while manual models also have a clutch pedal pad. The accelerator uses a different face and isn’t serviced with the same rubber pad. Always match parts to VIN to ensure correct fit.

Are alloy or decorative pedal covers legal in Australia and New Zealand?

They can be, provided they’re securely fastened and offer at least as much grip as OEM. Slippery or poorly secured covers can fail WoF/RWC and compromise safety. For road cars, quality OEM-style rubber pads remain the safest and simplest option.