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Replacing the brake pads on a 2009-2013 Subaru Forester is one of the most effective ways to restore safe stopping distance and reduce unwanted noise or dust. Because these model years span a few chassis and usage patterns, picking brake pads that match your driving style and the Foresters brake hardware matters for performance and longevity.This guide presents six shortlisted brake pad options chosen for fitment and real-world usability for the 2009-2013 Forester. We evaluate stopping power, noise and dust control, and pad wear characteristics so you can pick the right pads whether you prioritize daily comfort, towing, or spirited driving. Read on for the criteria we used and practical installation and maintenance notes.
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Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | PowerStop Z17 Rear Ceramic Brake Pads with Hardware (17-1114) |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | ALADICHE Ceramic Front and Rear Brake Pads (fit for select Subaru models) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | OETEX Rear Ceramic Brake Pads (D1114) for Subaru Rear Wheels |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Bendix Priority1 CFC1114 Rear Ceramic Brake Pads (Rear) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Bendix Premium SBC929 Ceramic Front Brake Pads |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | A-Premium Ceramic Front and Rear Brake Pads with Hardware, 8-Pack |  |
1. PowerStop Z17 Rear Ceramic Brake Pads with Hardware (17-1114)
| Material | Ceramic |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Specification Met | OEM |
| Manufacturer | Power Stop |
The PowerStop Z17 rear ceramic brake pads are a vehicle-specific replacement engineered for daily-driven Subaru Foresters in the 2009–2013 range. These pads deliver quiet, consistent stopping power thanks to a low-dust ceramic formulation, chamfered and slotted faces, and thermal scorching for faster break-in. The set includes stainless steel installation hardware and brake lube to make a bolt-on swap straightforward for a DIYer or tech doing a routine brake service. In practice the Z17s reduce wheel dust and cabin noise compared with many semi-metallic options while still providing confident stopping for commuting, errands, and light highway use. They are not aimed at heavy towing, track use, or aggressive performance driving where higher-temperature friction materials would be preferable. Fitment is vehicle-specific so installation requires no modifications, but buyers should confirm the rear rotor and parking brake configuration before purchase.
Best for: Buyers who want a quiet, low-dust, factory-quality rear pad upgrade for routine driving on a 2009–2013 Subaru Forester and prefer an easy bolt-on installation.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who require aggressive track-capable or heavy-load braking performance should choose a high-friction or performance-oriented pad instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit for direct bolt-on installation on listed Subaru rear applications
- Low-dust ceramic formula helps keep wheels cleaner
- Chamfered, slotted, and thermally scorched surfaces for faster break-in and smooth, quiet braking
- Includes stainless steel installation hardware and brake lube for an easier install
- Not formulated for heavy-duty, high-temperature use such as track days or towing
Verdict: A quiet, low-dust, vehicle-specific rear pad that gives Forester daily drivers an easy bolt-on upgrade with reliable factory-plus stopping performance.
2. ALADICHE Ceramic Front and Rear Brake Pads (fit for select Subaru models)
| Material Type | Ceramic |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 8 |
| Included Components | 8pcs front rear brake pads |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
These ALADICHE brake pads are a full front-and-rear 8-piece ceramic kit intended as a direct replacement for compatible Subaru models from 2005–2013. In daily driving they provide quieter stops and reduced brake dust compared with standard semi-metallic pads, which keeps wheels cleaner and cabin noise down. The listing highlights vehicle-specific fitment for Forester, Impreza, Legacy and Outback variants, and includes common replacement part numbers so installers can confirm fit. Ceramic material gives consistent pedal feel and stable performance for routine street use, but ceramic pads typically produce a milder initial bite than performance-oriented compounds. Installation is straightforward for a competent DIYer or an independent shop since these are sold as a matched front/rear set. There is no manufacturer warranty listed, so keep that in mind if you want added coverage. For everyday commuting and light towing these pads offer a balance of quiet operation, low dust, and acceptable stopping power, while drivers who demand aggressive track-level braking may prefer a dedicated performance compound.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a quiet, low-dust replacement for everyday driving on a Subaru and want a full matched front-and-rear kit for straightforward installation.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who do frequent heavy towing, aggressive driving, or track use and need high-friction, performance brake compounds should consider a performance-specific pad instead.
- Ceramic compound reduces brake dust and keeps wheels cleaner.
- Quieter stopping performance compared with typical semi-metallic pads.
- Sold as a complete 8-piece front and rear kit for matched replacement.
- Vehicle-specific fitment and listed replacement part numbers simplify verification.
- No manufacturer warranty or coverage information provided.
- Ceramic pads offer milder initial bite compared with performance-oriented compounds.
Verdict: A practical, quiet, low-dust ceramic front-and-rear kit that fits the specified Subaru models and is well suited for daily driving maintenance needs.
3. OETEX Rear Ceramic Brake Pads (D1114) for Subaru Rear Wheels
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Ceramic |
| Unit Count | 4 Count |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
These OETEX rear ceramic pads replace factory rear pads for a range of Subaru models and are sold as a four-piece kit ready for installation. They use a ceramic friction compound with multi-layer rubberized shims and precision-chamfered edges to reduce vibration and minimize squeal, while the included metal retaining clips help keep the pads properly seated. In everyday driving and light off-road use the ceramic formula offers consistent stopping power and better thermal stability across wet, dry, and snowy conditions. A notable advantage is lower brake dust, so wheels stay cleaner between washes. Because these are vehicle-specific rear pads, installation is straightforward for a DIYer or tech familiar with Subaru rear brakes. The main compromise is that ceramic pads can wear faster than heavy-duty semi-metallic options under aggressive towing or endurance-heavy use, so they are best for normal commuting and spirited street driving rather than track or severe-duty applications.
Best for: Buyers replacing worn rear pads on compatible Subaru models who prioritize quiet operation, low dust, and a straightforward direct-replacement solution.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need pads for track days, heavy towing, or extended high-heat braking should choose a performance or heavy-duty semi-metallic compound instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Subaru rear applications which simplifies installation
- Ceramic compound produces noticeably less brake dust for cleaner wheels
- Multi-layer rubberized shims and chamfered edges reduce noise and vibration
- Includes metal retaining clips to ensure stable pad positioning
- Not optimized for heavy towing, track use, or sustained high-heat braking compared with semi-metallic performance pads
Verdict: A quiet, low-dust, vehicle-specific rear pad set that gives Subaru drivers an easy, factory-replacement style upgrade for everyday driving.
4. Bendix Priority1 CFC1114 Rear Ceramic Brake Pads (Rear)
| Brand Name | Bendix |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Material Type | Ceramic |
| Included Components | Pad set with installation hardware |
| Specification Met | OEM |
These Bendix Priority1 CFC1114 rear brake pads are a vehicle-specific ceramic replacement designed to match factory fit and braking behavior on compatible Subaru and Scion models. They are typically used as a direct rear pad swap during routine brake maintenance and come with basic installation hardware. The ceramic formulation aims to deliver consistent braking feel with reduced dust and lower noise compared with many semi-metallic pads, and Bendix states the pads are engineered to resist wear and corrosion for longer service life. Included OEM-equivalent numbers and vehicle-specific fit help simplify selecting the correct kit for 2009-2013 Forester applications. Important limitations are that these are replacement pads only, so rotor condition and brake hardware should be inspected and possibly replaced for best results, and ceramic pads can be slightly less aggressive than performance-oriented compounds under sustained track-style use. For daily-driven Forester owners focused on dependable, low-noise stopping this set provides a practical factory-quality option.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize dependable, low-noise daily braking for a 2009–2013 Forester and want a factory-quality, direct-replacement rear pad that simplifies maintenance.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently subject their Forester to heavy track use or aggressive braking demands should consider performance-oriented friction compounds instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit simplifies correct selection for compatible Subaru and Scion models
- Ceramic material reduces brake dust and typically runs quieter than many semi-metallic pads
- Includes installation hardware for a straightforward rear pad swap
- Formulation engineered for wear and corrosion resistance to extend service life
- Kit is pads only so rotors or worn hardware may need separate replacement to restore full braking performance
Verdict: If you want a dependable, low-dust, factory-style rear pad for a 2009–2013 Forester, these Bendix ceramic pads are a practical, reliable choice.
5. Bendix Premium SBC929 Ceramic Front Brake Pads
| Brand | Bendix |
|---|---|
| Material | Ceramic |
| Auto Part Position | Front |
| Specification Met | OEM |
The Bendix Premium SBC929 is a ceramic front brake pad set designed as a direct, vehicle-specific replacement to match factory fit and function. Intended for everyday driving, these pads provide a quiet, smooth stop with reduced dust compared with semi-metallic compounds. Bendix highlights durable materials and resistance to wear and corrosion, which should translate to longer pad life in typical commuting and light-duty use. For a 2009 to 2013 Forester the pads promise consistent braking and reduced fade under normal driving; the ceramic formulation also helps keep wheels cleaner. Installation is straightforward for a routine pad change, though users should confirm exact fitment for their Forester trim and year. The main limitation is that ceramic pads can feel slightly less bitey under heavy repeated hard braking compared with some performance semi-metallic pads, so drivers who tow frequently or drive aggressively may prefer a different compound. For most Forester owners looking for a quiet, low-dust, factory-style replacement these Bendix pads are a practical choice.
Best for: Owners prioritizing a quiet, low-dust, factory-style replacement for daily driving on a 2009–2013 Subaru Forester who value proven parts with strong user feedback.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently tow, carry heavy loads, or do spirited driving and need maximum initial bite and extreme heat resistance.
- Ceramic compound delivers quieter braking and lower pad dust than semi-metallic alternatives
- Designed as vehicle-specific factory-quality replacement for a seamless fit
- Durable, corrosion-resistant construction aimed at longer pad life
- Helps reduce brake fade for consistent performance in everyday driving
- Less aggressive initial bite under heavy, repeated hard braking compared with performance semi-metallic pads
Verdict: A quiet, low-dust ceramic front pad that delivers factory-quality braking for everyday use on 2009–2013 Foresters backed by strong user approval.
6. A-Premium Ceramic Front and Rear Brake Pads with Hardware, 8-Pack
| Material Type | Ceramic |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Number of Items | 8 |
| Specification Met | OEM |
These A-Premium ceramic brake pads are a full 8-piece kit intended as a direct replacement for the front and rear on supported Subaru 2009-2013 models. They are made from a low-dust ceramic formulation and ship with installation hardware and high-temperature brake lubricant so you can replace all pads in one job. In everyday driving the ceramic compound should reduce brake dust and noise compared with older semi-metallic pads, and the included hardware and lubricant simplify installation and help prevent squeal. The listing cites salt-spray testing and a copper content below 5 percent, which suggests corrosion resistance and compliance with recent material limits. This is a value-oriented option from an aftermarket brand with a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee covering the part itself. Expect factory-style braking feel rather than performance racing characteristics, and be prepared to confirm exact fitment for your trim before installing since vehicle-specific fit is required.
Best for: Drivers who prioritize quiet, low-dust daily driving and want a complete, vehicle-specific pad kit that simplifies a single-session brake service.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need track-capable or heavy-duty towing brakes should consider performance or heavy-duty friction compounds instead.
- Complete 8-piece kit includes front and rear pads, hardware, and high-temperature lubricant
- Ceramic compound formulated for lower dust and reduced noise
- Salt spray tested and low copper content for corrosion resistance and compliance
- Vehicle-specific fitment for compatible 2009-2013 Subaru models
- Aftermarket brand may not match long-term durability of higher-end OEM or premium-name pads
Verdict: A practical, vehicle-specific ceramic pad kit that reduces dust and noise while including everything needed to replace front and rear pads on 2009-2013 Subaru models.
Choosing the Right 2009-2013 Subaru Forester Brake Pads: Key Factors to Consider
Material Compound and Performance
The pad compound determines stopping feel, fade resistance, and dust production. Organic or ceramic-style compounds are often quieter and produce less dust for everyday driving, while semi-metallic compounds can offer stronger initial bite and better high-heat performance.
For the 2009-2013 Forester you should match compound choice to how you drive. Daily commuting and light towing favor low-dust ceramic-style formulations that keep wheels cleaner and reduce cabin noise. If you frequently carry heavier loads or make repeated hard stops, a compound with better heat tolerance will resist fade but may increase rotor wear and dust levels.
Noise Control and Anti-Squeal Features
Brake squeal is a common complaint and can come from pad resonance, poor bedding, or missing anti-squeal hardware. Look for pads with factory-style shims, chamfered edges, and high-quality backer plates to reduce vibration and noise.
On a Forester, calm, predictable pedal feel is often tied to proper anti-squeal features. Pads that include full-coverage shims or a noise-damping layer reduce the chance of high-frequency vibration. Also consider whether the pad requires additional shims or grease at the caliper contact points during installation to minimize squeal risk.
Pad Thickness and Wear Life
Initial pad thickness and how fast the friction material wears determine service intervals. A thicker pad generally offers longer life, but compound and driving style are equally important factors.
Check published thickness specifications and compare them to the Foresters original equipment dimensions. Pads that wear unevenly or excessively can lead to premature rotor resurfacing. For the 2009-2013 Forester, factor in mileage expectations and whether you plan to keep the vehicle long term when deciding between longer-lasting or higher-performance compounds.
Fitment and Backing Plate Design
Correct fitment is critical to safe operation and simple installation. Backing plate shape, retaining holes, and the position of wear indicators must match the Foresters caliper design to prevent caliper binding or improper caliper piston movement.
Always confirm that the pad set is explicitly listed for 2009-2013 Subaru Forester applications. A pad that requires trimming or altered hardware can cause installation delays and safety risks. Proper backing plate rigidity also helps maintain even pressure and predictable wear across the contact surface.
Rotor Compatibility and Brake Dust
Pad compounds interact with rotor metallurgy. Some aggressive formulations can accelerate rotor wear or cause scoring if the rotor material is softer. Conversely, low-dust ceramic-style pads help preserve rotor surface finish and reduce cleaning time for alloy wheels.
Consider whether the Foresters rotors are original or resurfaced. If rotors are worn or thin, choose a pad that is sympathetic to the rotor material and plan for rotor replacement if necessary. Lower dust output is preferable for owners who want tidy wheels and less maintenance.
Installation Hardware and Ease of Replacement
Ease of installation affects whether you can do the job yourself or need professional help. Pad kits that include new clips, shims, and anti-rattle hardware reduce friction during installation and lower the chance of noise or fitment issues after replacement.
For a 2009-2013 Forester, having the correct hardware on hand avoids repeated disassembly. Some kits require brake grease or specific torque sequences; be prepared with the right tools and service information. Clear instructions and properly matched hardware make post-installation bedding and inspection straightforward.
Understanding Forester Brake System Basics
The 2009-2013 Subaru Forester uses a conventional front-disc, rear-disc or rear-drum arrangement depending on trim and year. Knowing whether your vehicle has ventilated front rotors and the rear brake type is important because it affects pad size and heat management. Verify the axle-specific pad set when shopping to avoid confusion during installation.
Familiarize yourself with the Foresters service points such as caliper slide pins and anti-rattle clips. Proper lubrication of contact points and correct torque on caliper guide bolts helps maintain even wear and prevents noise. Also, note any onboard traction or stability systems that rely on consistent braking behavior; uneven pad performance can alter ABS feel.
- Confirm front versus rear pad kit before purchase
- Check rotor condition during any pad replacement
- Inspect caliper hardware and replace worn clips
Ceramic Versus Semi-Metallic Options
Ceramic-style pads prioritize quiet operation and low dust, making them a strong choice for everyday driving and for owners who value clean wheels and subdued pedal feel. They are typically kinder to rotors but may sacrifice some initial bite under high-load conditions.
Semi-metallic or higher-friction blends offer stronger initial stopping and better resistance to brake fade under heavy use, such as towing or spirited driving. Those benefits can come with increased dust and potential for greater rotor wear, so weigh the tradeoffs against how you use your Forester.
- Ceramic: quieter, lower dust, gentler on rotors
- Semi-metallic: better high-heat performance, more dust
Signs Your Forester Needs New Brake Pads
Common indicators include longer stopping distances, a spongy or low brake pedal, and audible squeal or grinding noises when braking. Visual inspection through the wheel for thin friction material is an easy check.
Pay attention to wear indicators if present. Grinding noise generally indicates the pads are worn to the backing plate and immediate service is required to avoid rotor damage. Also monitor brake dust levels and pedal response during repeated stops to catch progressive wear early.
- Squeal indicates early wear or vibration
- Grinding implies immediate replacement needed
- Reduced pedal firmness can show fluid or pad issues
Bedding-In New Brake Pads on a Forester
Proper bedding helps transfer a thin uniform layer of friction material to the rotor and reduces glazing. A typical procedure involves a series of moderate stops from progressively higher speeds without coming to a complete stop, followed by a cool-down period. Follow manufacturer recommendations if provided with the pad set.
After bedding, recheck torque on wheel lug nuts and inspect for any unusual noise or uneven wear. Proper bedding contributes to consistent pedal feel and longer pad life on the Forester.
- Perform gradual stops to transfer friction material
- Avoid hard, repeated stops during initial 100 miles
- Reinspect pads and rotors after bedding-in
Routine Inspection and When To Service
Establish a visual inspection routine every oil change or tire rotation to check pad thickness and rotor condition. Measure remaining pad friction material and compare to the Foresters service limits before deciding to replace.
If you notice increased dust, noise, or a change in pedal feel between inspections, move up the replacement interval. Addressing pads at the right time prevents more costly rotor machining or replacement and maintains predictable braking performance.
- Inspect pads at regular service intervals
- Measure pad thickness rather than guessing
- Address abnormal noise immediately to avoid rotor damage
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Subaru Forester configuration to see the most relevant Brake Pads recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2009-2013 Subaru Forester Brake Pads
We prioritized candidates that meet the specific brake system requirements for 2009-2013 Subaru Forester vehicles and that deliver reliable on-vehicle performance across common driving conditions. Evaluation criteria included braking performance under normal and emergency stops, pad formulation and compound behavior for noise and dust control, and measured wear rates or thickness retention to estimate service life. We also considered material compatibility with the Foresters rotors to reduce glazing and scoring, and the availability of correct fitment hardware or backing-plate geometry to avoid installation issues.Technical criteria included pad thickness and contact surface area relative to stock, backing plate durability, and presence of anti-squeal features such as chamfers or shims. We reviewed reported installation fit, ease of bedding-in, and any user-reported tendencies toward rotor wear. Exclusions included pads that require caliper or rotor modifications, pads intended solely for racing use, and any options without documented fitment for the 2009-2013 Forester. The resulting list favors dependable, vehicle-specific choices that balance stopping power, noise control, and service life.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How often should I replace brake pads on a 2009-2013 Forester?
It depends on driving style and conditions. Many drivers replace pads between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, but frequent towing or aggressive braking shortens that interval. Inspect pad thickness regularly and follow the measurements rather than mileage alone.
Can I replace just front or rear pads at a time on the Forester?
Yes, you can replace one axle at a time, but matching friction characteristics left-to-right is important. If only one side shows uneven wear, inspect caliper hardware. Replacing both pads on the same axle helps maintain balanced braking.
What causes brake pad noise on my Forester and how do I fix it?
Noise can come from high-frequency vibration, worn shims, glazing, or loose hardware. Use pads with quality anti-squeal shims, ensure proper bedding, and replace worn clips or guides. If noise persists, check rotor condition and caliper operation.
Are ceramic brake pads a good choice for a 2009-2013 Forester?
Ceramic-style pads are a good option for daily driving because they tend to be quieter and produce less dust, which keeps wheels cleaner. For heavy use or towing, consider a compound with better heat tolerance while acknowledging the tradeoff in dust and potential rotor wear.
How do I check brake pad thickness on the Forester?
Visually inspect through the wheel spokes or remove the wheel for a clear view. Measure the friction material from backing plate to surface; if it is near your vehicles service limit or under about 3 millimeters, plan replacement. Also heed any wear indicators if present.
Will new pads require rotor replacement on my Forester?
Not always. If rotors are within thickness specs and have an even surface, new pads can be used after proper bedding. If rotors are heavily scored, warped, or below the thickness specification, machining or replacement is recommended to ensure effective contact and prevent vibration.
Final Verdict
When replacing brake pads on a 2009-2013 Subaru Forester, prioritize a compound and design that match your driving demands while ensuring correct fitment and hardware. Balance quieter, low-dust options against higher-friction compounds if you need stronger initial bite or better fade resistance.Focus on pad thickness, anti-squeal features, and rotor condition when deciding. Addressing those tradeoffs will deliver safer, more consistent braking and reduce follow-up maintenance, helping you select the right pads with confidence.
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