Parts for your 2004 Subaru Forester-Pedal pads

2004 Subaru Forester pedal pads — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, pedal pads are fitted to the 2004 Subaru Forester. Subaru’s factory workshop manual for the SG-series Forester (MY03–08) and the Subaru electronic parts catalogue both list rubber pedal pads for the brake pedal, and for the clutch on manual models. The accelerator on this model typically uses a textured plastic tread face rather than a removable rubber pad, so the “pedal pad” term mainly applies to the brake (and clutch where fitted).

These little rubber covers do more than people think. They provide grippy, non-slip contact so boots don’t slide off the brake or clutch in the wet, they dampen vibration, and they protect the metal pedal plate from wear. On a 2004 Forester—whether it’s used for the daily commute or the odd ski trip—they’re a simple safety item worth keeping in good nick.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the pads every service or 10,000–15,000 km. Look for:

• Smoothing or shiny spots where the tread pattern has worn away
• Cracks, hardening, or edges curling back
• Contamination by oil, grease, or coolant
• Missing pads (it happens!)

If any of the above shows up, replacing them is quick and inexpensive. Use quality OEM or equivalent pads for the SG Forester to ensure the lip fits the pedal plate properly. For autos, it’s just the brake pad, for manuals, replace both brake and clutch together so pedal feel and grip match.

Fitting tips a technician would use:

1. Park safely, remove floor mats, and clean the pedal plate with degreaser or isopropyl alcohol.
2. Warm the new rubber pad slightly (sunlight or warm water) to make it more pliable.
3. Hook the bottom edge first, then work the lip over the plate all the way round. A tiny dab of soapy water can help—wipe any residue off after.
4. Confirm the lip is fully seated with no corners lifted. Test pedal operation and ensure nothing fouls the pad.

A couple of watch-outs: never drive without a brake pedal pad, don’t glue pads to the plate, and keep mats clipped so they can’t ride up under the pedals. For the accelerator, if the plastic face is damaged or loose, the remedy is typically the pedal assembly rather than a rubber pad swap.

Popular questions about 2004 Subaru Forester pedal pads

How do I know when my Forester’s brake or clutch pedal pad needs replacing?
When the tread is worn smooth, the rubber is hard or cracked, or it feels slippery when wet—even slightly—it’s time to replace. If the pad’s edge won’t stay hooked on the pedal plate, fit a new one straight away.

Are automatic and manual pedal pads the same on a 2004 Forester?
Autos have a single brake pedal pad. Manuals use a brake pad and a separate clutch pedal pad. They’re different shapes, so order the correct ones for your transmission. The accelerator is usually a hard plastic tread, not a removable rubber pad.

Can I fit alloy pedal covers instead of the rubber pads?
You can, provided they’re designed for the SG Forester and retain a non-slip surface. For road cars in Aus/NZ, stick with pads or covers that maintain secure wet-grip and don’t interfere with pedal travel or floor mats.