Parts for your 1999 Subaru Forester-Brake shoes

1999 Subaru Forester brake shoes — what they do and how to look after them

Brake shoes are absolutely relevant to the 1999 Subaru Forester. Per the 1999 Subaru Forester Factory Service Manual (Brake section) and the Subaru Genuine Parts Catalogue for the SF-series Forester, this model came either with rear drum brakes that use brake shoes for service braking, or with rear disc brakes that incorporate a drum-in-hat handbrake — which also uses brake shoes. Workshop guides such as the Haynes Subaru Forester 1998–2008 manual likewise detail inspection, adjustment and replacement of both rear drum shoes and parking brake shoes on disc-brake models.

On Foresters with rear drum brakes, the shoes press outward against the inside of the brake drum to slow the car. On Foresters with rear discs, the service braking is handled by pads and rotors, while a small set of internal shoes handles parking brake duties, locking the rear wheels when parked on the kerb or a steep driveway.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the rear shoes at least annually or every 20,000 km. Look for uneven wear, glazing, contamination from brake fluid or grease, cracked linings, and heat spots on the drum or the rotor hat. Measure lining thickness and replace when at or near the minimum specified in the factory manual. Any time shoes are replaced, do both sides on the axle. It’s also good practice to renew the return springs and hold-down hardware, and to clean and lightly lubricate the shoe contact points on the backing plate with a high-temperature brake grease (keep it off the linings).

For drum-in-hat parking brake shoes, the rear rotor needs to come off to access the mechanism. After fitting new shoes, adjust the star wheel for slight drag, refit the rotor, then fine-tune the parking brake so lever travel is within spec and the car holds firmly on a hill. For rear drum service brakes, adjust the shoes so the drum just clears without excessive drag, then bed the brakes in with gentle stops from low speed. If any hydraulic components were opened, bleed the brakes and top up with fresh DOT 3/4 fluid. As a final step, torque the wheel nuts correctly (around 120 Nm is typical for this model) and check operation with a cautious road test.

Telltales that the Forester’s shoes need attention include scraping or grinding from the rear, reduced handbrake holding power, high brake pedal travel, or a pulsing feel at low speeds. Keeping up with inspections and adjustments will keep stopping performance tidy and extend the life of drums, rotors and tyres.

• Replace shoes as a pair (both sides)
• Renew springs/hardware if corroded or weak
• Adjust correctly and bed in after fitting
• Flush brake fluid every two years

Popular questions

Does a 1999 Subaru Forester have rear drums or discs?
It depends on the trim and market. Many 1999 Foresters run rear drum brakes, while higher trims often have rear discs. Either way, the vehicle uses brake shoes — for the service rear brakes on drum models, or for the drum-in-hat parking brake on disc models.

How long do brake shoes last on a 1999 Forester?
Service rear shoes commonly last 60,000–100,000 km, but life varies with loads, hills and driving style. Parking brake shoes on disc models can last much longer because they’re only used when parked. Inspect them every service and replace when near the minimum thickness or if contaminated or cracked.

Can a home mechanic replace the brake shoes?
Yes, if confident with brake work and equipped with a proper spring tool, jack stands and a torque wrench. The job involves strong springs and precise adjustment, so take care to keep everything clean, avoid breathing dust (use brake cleaner and a mask), and follow the factory procedure. If unsure, a qualified tech is the safer bet.