Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Pedal pads

2017 Subaru Forester pedal pads: what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources including Subaru’s SJ (MY2017) Forester service information and genuine parts catalogues list replaceable rubber pedal pads for the brake pedal, and for the clutch pedal on manual models. The accelerator on most 2017 Forester variants is a moulded pedal without a separate rubber pad. So yes—pedal pads are relevant and fitted to the 2017 Subaru Forester.

On this model, pedal pads serve a simple but critical job: they provide grippy, compliant contact underfoot so the driver’s shoes don’t slip when braking or clutching, especially in wet conditions. The pads also help dampen vibration and protect the pedal plates from wear. Subaru’s service guidance treats pedal pad condition as a safety item—if the rubber goes smooth, hard, cracked or loose, braking feel and control can suffer, and it may threaten WoF/roadworthy compliance in NZ and Australia.

As part of regular servicing, workshops should visually check the brake (and clutch, if fitted) pedal pads and feel for secure seating at the edges. Cleaning with mild soapy water keeps the tread pattern working as intended. Silicone dressings or greasy cleaners are a no-go, as they can make the surface slippery. Floor mats must be correctly hooked and not crowd the pedals.

• Signs it’s time to replace: surface worn smooth, glazing/hardening, cracks or splits, pad lifting at a corner, or noticeable foot slip in the wet.
• Typical service touchpoint: inspect every service or 10,000–15,000 km/12 months, replace on condition.
• Manual vs CVT: manual models have both brake and clutch pads, autos have the single brake pad. The accelerator is usually an integrated pedal.

Replacement is quick and inexpensive. A technician will pop off the old pad, clean the metal pedal face, then warm and flex a new genuine-spec rubber pad over the pedal until the lip fully seats all the way around. It’s a 10–20 minute job in most cases, and sticking with OEM-spec parts ensures correct fit and grip. Dress-up metal covers are best avoided unless they’re designed for the SJ Forester and can be positively secured, anything that slips can fail inspection and compromise safety.

Popular questions

Does a 2017 Subaru Forester have pedal pads?
Yes. The brake pedal uses a replaceable rubber pad, and manual models also have a clutch pedal pad. The accelerator pedal is generally a one-piece moulded unit without a separate pad.

How often should pedal pads be replaced?
There’s no fixed kilometre interval—replace on condition. If the rubber is smooth, hard, cracked or lifting, swap it out. A quick check at each service keeps things safe and roadworthy.

Are aftermarket metal pedal covers OK?
Only if they’re purpose-made for the 2017 Forester and mount securely without reducing grip. Slippery or loose covers can risk WoF/roadworthy failure and compromise pedal control.