Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Brake calipers

Brake Calipers on the 2017 Subaru Forester: What They Do and When to Service Them

The 2017 Subaru Forester is a reliable SUV that comes equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, and that means brake calipers definitely play a vital role in its braking system. Brake calipers are essential components responsible for ensuring the Forester stops safely and efficiently every time the driver presses the brake pedal.

So, what exactly do brake calipers do in a vehicle like the 2017 Subaru Forester? Their primary job is to squeeze the brake pads against the brake rotors (or discs) when the brakes are applied. This action creates the friction required to slow down or stop the vehicle. Without brake calipers, the brake pads wouldn't be able to clamp onto the rotors, and the Forester simply wouldn't be able to brake properly. In a nutshell, brake calipers are the mechanical fingers that grab the rotors and slow things down.

Each caliper houses one or more pistons that use hydraulic pressure from the brake fluid to push the brake pads against the rotors. When the driver presses on the brake pedal, this pressure increases and acts inside the caliper, making the pistons move. This setup is standard for most modern vehicles, including the 2017 Subaru Forester, which uses a four-wheel disc brake system with calipers fitted on both front and rear wheels.

Over time, brake calipers and their related components can wear out or develop problems. Regular checks and maintenance of the brake calipers should be part of any servicing routine for the 2017 Forester to keep it running safely on Australian roads. Faulty or sticky calipers can cause uneven braking, excessive brake pad wear, or even a dragging brake which can reduce fuel efficiency and increase wear on other braking parts.

Knowing when to replace or service brake calipers is crucial. Some signs that the calipers need attention include the vehicle pulling to one side when braking, a spongy or soft brake pedal, unusual noises like grinding or squealing, or brake fluid leaking near the wheel area. If any of these symptoms appear, it's a good idea to have the brake system inspected right away by a qualified mechanic who knows the specifics of the Subaru Forester.

When servicing brake calipers on the 2017 Forester, technicians generally look for piston movement, leaks in the hydraulic system, the condition of brake pads, and the smoothness of caliper slide pins. The slide pins are especially important because they allow the caliper to move properly and apply brake pressure evenly. If these pins get corroded or stuck, the caliper may cause uneven pad wear or brake drag.

Replacing brake calipers may be necessary if they are seized, damaged, or have internal leaks that cannot be repaired. Quality is important when buying replacement parts, so choosing OEM (original equipment manufacturer) calipers or trusted aftermarket options ensures the Forester maintains its reliable stopping power. Installing new calipers must also be done with care, including proper bleeding of the brake fluid to remove air bubbles and maintaining the prescribed torque levels on mounting bolts to keep everything secure and safe.

Brake caliper maintenance does not just extend the life of the calipers themselves but also protects other parts of the braking system including the brake pads and rotors. For example, a sticking caliper can cause a brake pad to stay pressed against the rotor, leading to premature wear and overheating. That extra heat can warp the rotors or degrade the brake fluid, both of which can affect braking performance and safety.

If the owner of a 2017 Subaru Forester wants to keep their ride in good nick, scheduling regular brake inspections - typically during service intervals every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres or as recommended in the owner's manual - is a wise move. This way, any minor issues can be caught early before they turn into costly repairs.

In addition to professional checks, it's good for owners to listen for any changes in the braking feel or sounds when driving daily. Catching caliper problems early means fewer headaches and a safer driving experience all around.

With proper care and timely maintenance, the brake calipers on a 2017 Subaru Forester will continue to deliver dependable and responsive braking performance, helping drivers navigate everything from city streets to rugged outback adventures with confidence.