Parts for your 1999 Subaru Forester-Wheel studs nuts

1999 Subaru Forester Wheel Studs & Nuts

Wheel studs and nuts are absolutely relevant to the 1999 Subaru Forester. Subaru’s service literature for the SF-series Forester (1997–2002) and the OEM parts catalogue specify five M12 x 1.25 press-in wheel studs on each hub with matching conical-seat lug nuts, on a 5x100 PCD. The Forester Owner’s Manual and Chassis/Brake sections of the factory service manual outline lug nut torque and tightening sequence, confirming the vehicle is designed for stud-and-nut wheel retention rather than wheel bolts.

On this Forester, the wheel studs provide the clamping interface through the hub, while the lug nuts apply the correct preload to secure the wheel. That clamping force is what keeps the wheel true under braking, cornering, and towing. Correct hardware and torque are vital for brake rotor alignment, wheel bearing life, and safe handling.

For servicing, the recommended torque is 120 N·m (about 88.5 ft‑lb) on clean, dry threads. The manual advises a star or criss-cross pattern to seat the wheel evenly, and a recheck after 50–100 km following wheel removal or rotation. Anti-seize or oil on the stud threads isn’t recommended, as lubrication skews torque values and can over-stretch studs. A torque wrench should be used for final tightening, an impact gun is fine for removal, but final torque by hand is the go.

Replacement becomes sensible when threads are stripped or rusty, nuts bind, a stud is bent or sheared, or wheels work loose. The brake rotor or drum (as fitted) needs to come off to drive the old stud out and pull a new stud in from the back of the hub using a sacrificial nut and a stack of washers. Quality studs and nuts matched to the correct 60° seat are important—mixing seat styles can damage wheels. In coastal and off-road use common in Aus and NZ, routine inspection for corrosion and proper torque during tyre rotations keeps things sweet.

• Five M12 x 1.25 studs per hub, conical-seat lug nuts, 5x100 PCD (per Subaru parts data).
• Tighten to 120 N·m in a star pattern, recheck after 50–100 km.
• Install dry—no anti-seize on threads or seats.

Popular questions about 1999 Subaru Forester wheel studs & nuts

What’s the correct wheel nut torque for a 1999 Forester?
The factory spec is 120 N·m (about 88.5 ft‑lb) on clean, dry threads. Tighten in a criss-cross pattern and recheck torque after a short drive, especially after tyre rotation or brake work.

Should anti-seize be used on Subaru wheel studs?
No. Subaru service guidance assumes dry threads. Lubricants change the clamping load for a given torque and can lead to over-tightening or stud stretch. If threads are dirty, clean them, if damaged, replace the stud.

How is a broken wheel stud replaced on the SF Forester?
Remove the wheel and brake assembly as required, knock the broken stud out from the rear of the hub, then pull the new stud in square using a flat washer stack and a nut. Refit the rotor/caliper, torque the lug nuts to 120 N·m, and recheck after 50–100 km.