Parts for your 2013 Subaru Forester-Pedal pads

2013 Subaru Forester pedal pads — what they do and when to replace them

Based on Subaru technical references — the SH-series 2013 Forester Service Manual (Chassis/Brake section) and the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue for SH models — pedal pads are absolutely used on this vehicle. Every 2013 Forester has a rubber brake pedal pad, manual-transmission models also have a rubber clutch pedal pad. The accelerator is an electronic pedal assembly with an integral plastic face, so there’s no separate pad for the throttle.

On a 2013 Subaru Forester, pedal pads are simple but critical safety bits. The rubber covers on the brake (and clutch, if it’s a manual) give the driver secure, predictable grip underfoot, especially when shoes are wet or muddy — common across Aussie and Kiwi conditions. They also protect the metal pedal plates from wear and help maintain the correct pedal feel designed by Subaru’s engineers. If the surface hardens, polishes smooth, cracks, or starts to slip on the pedal, braking and clutch modulation can suffer, and that’s a red flag for roadworthy or WOF checks.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the pads each time the Forester is in for brakes, tyres, or a WOF. They’re wear items and tend to age with kilometres, heat, and sun exposure. While there’s no fixed replacement interval, many owners find they need fresh pads somewhere between 60,000 and 100,000 km, or sooner if the vehicle sees lots of city stop-start work or off‑road muck. Cleaning is easy — a quick wash with mild soap and water brings back grip, avoid silicone dressings or petroleum solvents that can make them slippery or degrade the rubber.

• Replace pedal pads if they are smooth/shiny, cracked, hard, torn, or loose.
• For manuals, check clutch and brake pads together, for autos, check the brake pad.
• Use the correct Forester SH-specific pads (genuine or quality aftermarket) for a snug, non-slip fit.
• Fitting tips: lever the old pad off, warm the new pad slightly to soften, then work the lip evenly around the pedal plate. Ensure it’s fully seated before driving.

Note: the accelerator pedal on this model doesn’t have a separate pad. If its face is damaged or excessively worn, the proper fix is replacing the accelerator pedal assembly.

Popular questions

Does a 2013 Forester auto have more than one pedal pad?
Automatic models have a rubber brake pedal pad only. Manual models add a clutch pedal pad. The accelerator is an integrated electronic pedal without a separate pad.

How can an owner tell it’s time to replace a pedal pad?
If the pad is shiny-smooth, cracked, hardened, torn, or starts to slip on the metal pedal, it’s due. Reduced grip — especially noticeable with wet shoes — is the clearest sign.

Are metal dress-up pedal covers OK for WOF or roadworthy?
They’re only acceptable if they maintain or improve grip and are securely fixed. If they’re slippery or insecure, they can cause a fail. Rubber-faced, model-specific covers are the safer bet.