Parts for your 2009 Subaru Forester-Wheel studs nuts

2009 Subaru Forester wheel studs and nuts

Technical sources confirm the 2009 Subaru Forester is fitted with wheel studs and separate wheel nuts. The Subaru Factory Service Manual (SH series, Wheels and Tyres section) specifies press-in wheel studs with conical-seat nuts and details removal/installation procedures, the 2009 Owner’s Manual refers to loosening and tightening wheel nuts during tyre changes, and Subaru’s parts catalogue lists hub studs (e.g., 28051AA011) and conical lug nuts (e.g., 28171AJ000), M12 x 1.25. So wheel studs and nuts are absolutely relevant on this model.

On the 2009 Forester, the studs are pressed into the hub and the nuts clamp the wheel firmly to the hub face. That clamping force is what keeps the wheel secure and true under braking, cornering and rough Kiwi or Aussie roads. Subaru uses a 5x100 pattern with M12 x 1.25 studs and 60° conical-seat nuts, typically with a 19 mm hex.

As part of routine servicing or after any tyre or brake work, it’s smart to check the condition of the studs and nuts. Threads should be clean, straight and free of galling. Subaru specifies tightening the wheel nuts to 120 N·m (about 88.5 ft‑lb) using a calibrated torque wrench, in a star pattern. Nuts and studs should be assembled clean and dry—no oil or anti-seize—so torque is accurate. After fitting wheels, a re-torque after 50–100 km helps account for any paint crush or seating.

What to watch for: rounded hexes, stretched or cross-threaded studs, rust pitting, or nuts that don’t run down smoothly by hand. If any of that shows up, replace the affected parts—mixing in poor hardware can lead to vibration, uneven clamping or, worst case, a loose wheel.

• Use only 60° conical-seat nuts suited to Subaru hubs—avoid ball-seat or mag-seat styles.
• Avoid hammering with a rattle gun, use low power to snug, then torque by hand.
• If a stud breaks, the hub usually stays on the car: remove the calliper and rotor, knock the old stud out, and draw the new one in square with a spare nut and washer, or use a press.

Quality OEM or reputable aftermarket studs and nuts are fine. During tyre rotations or brake services, a quick visual and torque check will keep the Forester’s wheels safe and shake-free for many kilometres.

Popular questions about 2009 Subaru Forester wheel studs and nuts

What size are the wheel studs and nuts on a 2009 Forester?
The 2009 Forester uses M12 x 1.25 thread studs with 60° conical-seat lug nuts. The typical factory nut has a 19 mm hex. The vehicle’s bolt pattern is 5x100. Using the correct seat style and thread pitch is critical for proper clamping.

What’s the correct torque for the wheel nuts?
Subaru specifies 120 N·m for the wheel nuts on this model. Tighten in a star pattern, then re-check torque after 50–100 km. Always tighten on clean, dry threads—no lubricants or anti-seize—so the torque reading translates to correct clamping force.

How can someone tell if a stud or nut needs replacing?
Look for damaged or stretched threads, a nut that won’t spin on by hand, a rounded hex, heavy corrosion, or a stud that sits proud or spins in the hub. Any of these signs means replacement is due to maintain safe, even clamping.