Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Wheel studs nuts

2017 Subaru Forester wheel studs and nuts

Technical confirmation: the 2017 Subaru Forester uses wheel studs and lug nuts (not wheel bolts). Subaru’s 2017 Forester Owner’s Manual (Wheels and Tyres), the Subaru Service Manual (Chassis – Wheels and Tyres), and Subaru’s electronic parts catalogue specify a five-stud hub using M12 x 1.25 studs secured by conical-seat nuts on a 5×100 PCD. So wheel studs and nuts are absolutely relevant to this model.

On this Forester, the studs are press-fitted into the hub and the nuts apply the clamping force that holds the wheel and brake rotor securely to the hub. That clamp load is what keeps the wheel located, manages braking forces, and prevents vibration. Because the system relies on correct clamp force, clean threads and proper torque are vital.

For routine servicing, the factory wheel nut torque is 120 N·m. It’s best to snug the nuts by hand, then torque in a star pattern with a calibrated torque wrench. Avoid lubricants on the stud threads or the nut seat, Subaru service information calls for clean, dry threads because lube changes the torque–tension relationship. After any wheel removal, recheck torque after 50–100 km of driving.

When to replace? If a stud’s threads are nicked, flattened, rusty, or stretched (look for a “necked down” appearance), it should be renewed. Likewise, replace any nut with damaged threads, a deformed 60° cone seat, or rounded hex. Mixing seat styles or using the wrong thread pitch is a no-go—stick with M12 × 1.25, 60° cone-seat nuts designed for Subaru hubs.

• Common symptoms: clicking while driving, a wheel that won’t stay torqued, visible stud damage, or a missing/broken stud.
• Good habits: hand-start every nut, use a torque wrench to finish, and keep the hub face and wheel mounting surface free of rust and debris.

Stud replacement typically involves removing the wheel and brake rotor, pressing or drawing the damaged stud out, and seating a new OEM-quality stud fully in the hub flange before refitting the rotor and wheel. If more than one stud is suspect on the same hub, it’s sensible to renew the set. Done right, the Forester’s wheel studs and nuts deliver years of safe, drama-free touring on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions

What size are the wheel studs and what torque do the nuts need on a 2017 Forester?

The 2017 Forester uses M12 × 1.25 studs on a 5×100 PCD with 60° cone-seat nuts (typically 19 mm hex). Torque the nuts to 120 N·m in a star pattern on clean, dry threads, and recheck after 50–100 km.

Is it safe to drive with one broken wheel stud?

It’s not recommended. A missing or broken stud shifts load to the remaining studs, which can fatigue and fail. Replace the damaged stud as soon as possible to keep the wheel properly clamped and stay on the right side of safety and roadworthiness rules.

Should anti-seize be used on Subaru wheel nuts?

No. Subaru service guidance expects dry, clean threads and seats. Anti-seize or oil can significantly change clamp load for a given torque. If corrosion is an issue, a light smear of high-temp anti-seize on the hub face (not on threads or nut seats) can help prevent the wheel sticking to the hub.