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Picking the right brake pads for a 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek affects safety, comfort, and service costs. The Crosstrek sees a mix of city commuting, canyon roads, and occasional light off-road use, so pads need to provide confident stopping, predictable pedal feel, and manageable dust and noise.This guide highlights six shortlisted brake pad options chosen for their balance of stopping performance, durability, and noise control. We explain the key criteria used to evaluate them and what to check before installation so you can match the pads to your driving style and maintenance plans.
Looking for other parts? See all Subaru Crosstrek parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Detroit Axle Front and Rear Brake Kit with Ceramic Pads and Ventilated Rotors |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | PowerStop K6762 Front and Rear Z23 Brake Kit — Drilled & Slotted Rotors with Z23 Carbon‑Fiber Ceramic Pads |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Brake X Front Brake Pads and Rotors Kit for 2013–2017 Crosstrek |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Quality-Built Premium Rear Semi-Metallic Brake Pads (1001-1114M) |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Bendix Premium SBC1539 Ceramic Front Brake Pads |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Detroit Axle Brake Kit with Drilled & Slotted Rotors and Ceramic Pads for Subaru Crosstrek/Forester (Front & Rear) |  |
1. Detroit Axle Front and Rear Brake Kit with Ceramic Pads and Ventilated Rotors
| Fitment rotor sizes | 11.54" front / 10.79" rear |
|---|---|
| Pad type | Ceramic |
| Rotor feature | Ventilated |
| Finish | Zinc plated |
This Detroit Axle kit supplies both front and rear replacement rotors plus matching ceramic pads and hardware for Crosstrek/Forester models that use 11.54 inch front and 10.79 inch rear rotors. The rotors are ventilated for faster cooling and zinc plated to resist visible corrosion and reduce wheel dust. Ceramic pads are quieter than many semi-metallic options and come with the necessary installation hardware. For a routine brake job the kit simplifies parts sourcing by including everything for both axles and is intended as a direct fit without modifications. Expect straightforward highway and daily-driving braking performance with reduced noise and decent longevity from the ceramic compound, though drivers who push hard braking repeatedly may notice more fade than with some performance-oriented metallic pads. This is a practical, value-minded replacement set best for drivers who want a quiet, factory-style feel and complete axle coverage in one purchase.
Best for: Drivers who want a complete, quiet, factory-style brake refresh for everyday driving and value the convenience of a matched front-and-rear kit.
Less Ideal for: Enthusiasts who frequently drive aggressively, go to the track, or need heavy towing braking performance should consider performance-oriented or heavy-duty brake options instead.
- Includes both front and rear rotors plus matching ceramic pads and hardware for a complete axle service
- Ventilated rotors promote faster cooling to help manage heat under normal driving
- Zinc plating reduces visible corrosion and limits wheel-dusting for a cleaner appearance
- Ceramic pads are engineered for lower noise and a smoother, quieter stop
- Ceramic pads may show more fade under repeated heavy or track-style braking compared with high-performance metallic pads
- Kit is specific to vehicles with 11.54" front and 10.79" rear rotors and will not fit other rotor sizes
Verdict: A complete front-and-rear replacement kit that delivers quiet, factory-style braking and easy installation for Crosstrek/Forester models with the specified rotor sizes.
2. PowerStop K6762 Front and Rear Z23 Brake Kit — Drilled & Slotted Rotors with Z23 Carbon‑Fiber Ceramic Pads
| Vehicle fit | 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek (kit lists compatible years) |
|---|---|
| Pad compound | Z23 carbon-fiber ceramic |
| Rotor type | Drilled and slotted |
| Rotor finish | Zinc plated |
This PowerStop K6762 kit replaces both front and rear rotors and pads with Z23 carbon-fiber ceramic pads and drilled-and-slotted rotors engineered for Subaru Crosstrek fitment. Installation is bolt‑on using the included stainless steel hardware and rubberized shims so it is suitable for a knowledgeable DIYer or a shop install. The Z23 pad compound aims to raise stopping power over factory pads while keeping noise and dust low, and the drilled/rounded slots help evacuate gas and heat during spirited driving to reduce fade. Zinc plating on the rotors helps resist surface rust in wet climates. The kit covers all necessary hardware which simplifies a full-axle refresh. Expect stronger pedal bite and better thermal control under repeated hard stops, though drilled rotors can be more prone to cracking than plain rotors under extreme track use and ceramic pads may bed in differently than organic compounds. For daily-driven Crosstreks that see occasional aggressive braking, this kit balances performance, quiet operation, and corrosion protection well.
Best for: Enthusiasts who want a direct-fit, bolt-on upgrade for their Crosstrek to improve stopping power and thermal control during spirited driving while keeping daily comfort and low dust.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who plan frequent track days or aggressive endurance use should consider heavy-duty track-specific rotors and pads designed for continuous high-heat conditions instead.
- Complete front and rear kit includes pads, drilled-and-slotted rotors, shims, and stainless hardware for a single convenient upgrade
- Z23 carbon-fiber ceramic pads provide stronger initial bite while remaining low-dust and quiet
- Drilled and slotted rotor design improves heat dissipation and helps clear debris for more consistent performance under repeated stops
- Zinc plating on rotors reduces surface rust and improves longevity in wet or salty conditions
- Drilled rotors can be more susceptible to cracking than plain rotors under extreme, track-level abuse
Verdict: If you want a bolt-on Crosstrek upgrade that boosts braking bite and reduces fade while staying quiet and low-dust, this all-in-one PowerStop Z23 kit is a strong choice.
3. Brake X Front Brake Pads and Rotors Kit for 2013–2017 Crosstrek
| Fitment | 2013-2017 Crosstrek |
|---|---|
| Pad Type | Alpha ceramic |
| Rotor Material | G3000 grade cast iron |
| Kit Contents | 2 front rotors, 4 brake pads |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
This Brake X front brake kit bundles two replacement rotors and four ceramic brake pads matched for 2013–2017 Crosstrek applications. It is intended as a direct replacement to refresh front braking components and is typically used during a front brake service when pads and rotors show wear. The rotors are made from G3000 grade cast iron with mill balancing and double disc smoothing to resist cracking and corrosion, while the Alpha ceramic pads are chamfered, shimmed, and slotted to cut dust and reduce noise. In practice the kit should deliver quieter stops and lower dust than basic semi-metallic pads, and the heavier rotors give confidence for everyday driving and light towing or mountain roads common to Crosstrek owners. Installation is described as bolt-on without modification. Expect solid midrange performance for commuting and spirited driving, but this kit is aimed at street use rather than aggressive track duty where high-temperature resistance and extreme fade control matter more.
Best for: Drivers who want a practical, factory-style brake refresh for a 2013–2017 Crosstrek that reduces dust and noise while restoring reliable everyday stopping power.
Less Ideal for: Enthusiasts who plan frequent track sessions or heavy performance use should choose a high-temp performance brake compound and rotors rated for aggressive driving.
- Complete front kit includes both rotors and four ceramic pads for a single service
- G3000 grade cast iron rotors with mill balancing to reduce vibration and cracking
- Chamfered, shimmed, and slotted ceramic pads for reduced noise and lower brake dust
- Designed to match OEM vane counts and fit 2013–2017 Crosstrek without modifications
- Ceramic pads and cast iron rotors prioritize comfort and longevity over extreme track performance
Verdict: Choose this kit if you want a straightforward, quieter, low-dust front brake replacement that restores reliable everyday stopping for a 2013–2017 Crosstrek.
4. Quality-Built Premium Rear Semi-Metallic Brake Pads (1001-1114M)
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Semi-Metallic |
| Included Components | Rear Automotive Brake Pads (Hardware Included Where Applicable) |
| Specification Met | OEM |
These Quality-Built premium rear semi-metallic pads are a direct-fit replacement intended for daily-driven Subaru models in the specified fitment range. They use a copper-free semi-metallic compound to deliver confident stopping power and improved heat dissipation compared with basic organic pads, while multi-layer noise-dampening shims and OE-style slots and chamfers help reduce squeal and vibration. Hardware is included where required, making installation straightforward for a competent DIYer or a quick job for a shop. The pads are positioned for everyday use — commuting, light towing, and highway driving — so they prioritize consistent pedal feel, low dust, and wheel appearance over track-level performance. Expect durable, factory-quality braking at a budget-friendly price, though drivers seeking the quietest ceramic option or extreme performance for aggressive driving may prefer a different compound.
Best for: Buyers looking for a reliable, budget-friendly rear pad that restores factory-style braking for everyday driving on a 2013–2017 Crosstrek and who value consistent pedal feel and easier installation.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who plan aggressive track use, heavy-duty towing, or who prioritize the lowest possible dust and noise should consider performance or ceramic-specific options instead.
- Vehicle-specific fitment and OE-style slots and chamfers for straightforward installation and proper bedding
- Semi-metallic, copper-free formula offers strong stopping power and improved heat dissipation
- Noise-dampening shims reduce vibration and audible brake squeal in typical driving
- Includes hardware where required to simplify replacement and reduce parts-sourcing
- Semi-metallic compound is louder and dustier than some ceramic alternatives for drivers prioritizing minimal dust and the quietest operation
Verdict: A cost-conscious, factory-style rear pad choice that delivers dependable stopping power and easy installation for daily-driven 2013–2017 Crosstreks.
5. Bendix Premium SBC1539 Ceramic Front Brake Pads
| Auto Part Position | Front |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Pad set with installation hardware |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Specification Met | OEM |
| Material Type | Copper |
These Bendix Premium SBC1539 ceramic front brake pads are a direct replacement designed to match the factory fit and braking characteristics for compatible Subaru and Toyota models. They come as a complete pad set with basic installation hardware and are intended for daily-driven Crosstrek and similar vehicles where predictable, low-noise stopping is the priority. The ceramic compound and manufacturer specification aim to reduce brake fade and deliver smooth pedal feel in normal driving conditions, while materials resist corrosion for longer service life. Because they follow factory reference numbers, installation is straightforward for a professional or competent DIYer and they work well with factory rotors. Limitations are typical of ceramic pads: they prioritize quiet operation and longevity over maximum high-temperature stopping power, so they are not ideal for aggressive track use or heavy towing where semi-metallic compounds might perform better.
Best for: Drivers who prioritize dependable, quiet, and low-dust braking for daily-driven Crosstrek duty and want a near-factory replacement that lasts without fuss.
Less Ideal for: Enthusiasts who frequently drive on track, perform spirited driving, or need pads optimized for heavy towing should consider performance-oriented or semi-metallic options instead.
- Factory-fit vehicle-specific design simplifies installation and ensures correct fit.
- Ceramic material offers quiet operation and reduced dust compared with many semi-metallic pads.
- Includes installation hardware so the set is ready for replacement without extra parts.
- Materials are treated to resist corrosion which helps longevity in wet climates.
- Ceramic formulation is less suited to high-heat, aggressive driving compared with semi-metallic performance pads.
Verdict: Choose these Bendix Premium ceramic pads if you want a reliable, quiet, factory-style front brake replacement for a 2013–2017 Crosstrek that prioritizes longevity and everyday drivability.
6. Detroit Axle Brake Kit with Drilled & Slotted Rotors and Ceramic Pads for Subaru Crosstrek/Forester (Front & Rear)
| Fitment years/models | 2013-2017 Subaru XV Crosstrek, 2014-2018 Subaru Forester, 2012-2014 Subaru Impreza |
|---|---|
| Rotor type | Drilled & slotted (front and rear) |
| Pad material | 100% ceramic (front and rear) |
| Includes | Brake cleaner spray and brake fluid bottle |
This Detroit Axle kit supplies everything needed to replace both front and rear braking surfaces on compatible Subaru Crosstrek and Forester models. The package includes drilled and slotted rotors for improved heat dissipation and ceramic pads front and rear for quieter operation and reduced dust. It also bundles a small bottle of brake fluid and a brake cleaner spray so you can complete a rotor and pad swap without sourcing extra consumables. The rotors are promoted as meeting or exceeding factory fit and go through impact and fatigue testing, which supports confidence for everyday driving and spirited commutes. Expect noticeably cleaner wheels and a quieter pedal compared with semi-metallic pads, though ceramic pads can feel slightly less aggressive under sustained heavy braking. The kit is a convenient, one-purchase solution for DIY installers or independent shops, but if you need extreme track performance or heavy towing braking you may prefer a dedicated performance or heavy-duty brake option.
Best for: Buyers who want a single, well-tested replacement kit that restores quiet, low-dust braking for daily-driven Crosstreks and Foresters and prefer social proof and documented testing when choosing parts.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who do frequent track days, heavy towing, or need an aggressive performance braking setup should consider purpose-built performance pads and rotors instead.
- Complete kit covers front and rear rotors and pads plus brake cleaner and fluid for a single purchase replacement
- Drilled and slotted rotors help with heat dissipation and reduce fade under repeated stops
- 100% ceramic pads offer low dust and quieter braking compared with metallic formulations
- Rotors and pads are stated to be manufactured and tested to meet factory-quality fit and durability
- Ceramic pads provide less bite under heavy, repeated high-temperature braking compared with performance metallic pads
Verdict: A convenient, test-backed full front-and-rear replacement kit that brings quieter, low-dust ceramic braking and upgraded drilled-and-slotted rotors to compatible Crosstreks and Foresters.
Choosing the Right 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek Brake Pads: Key Factors to Consider
Friction Material and Stopping Power
The compound used in the brake pad determines initial bite, wet and dry stopping power, and fade resistance. Organic and ceramic-oriented compounds tend to prioritize quiet operation and low dust, while semi-metallic formulations usually offer stronger initial bite and higher heat tolerance. For the Crosstrek, which is commonly used in mixed urban and light off-road conditions, choose a compound that provides predictable modulation during both gradual and emergency braking.
Material also affects warm-up behavior. Some compounds require higher temperatures to reach peak friction; that can feel grabby or weak depending on driving. Consider how you drive the Crosstrek day to day and select a material that delivers consistent braking across commuting, highway, and light mountain use.
Wear Life and Replacement Interval
Brake pad longevity changes ownership costs and maintenance frequency. Pads with harder compounds typically last longer but may trade off some initial bite or produce more noise. Softer, quieter compounds wear faster but improve comfort. For the 2013-2017 Crosstrek, estimate replacement intervals based on your mileage and driving style: frequent city stops and hilly terrain accelerate wear compared with steady highway driving.
Also consider backing plate and bonding quality since poor construction can lead to premature delamination or uneven wear. Look for pads with consistent thickness specifications and known wear patterns to avoid unexpected early replacements.
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH)
Brake noise and vibration strongly affect owner satisfaction. Some pads produce squeal at light braking or resonance through the pedal and steering column. Good NVH performance depends on material, backing plate design, and included dampening hardware. For the Crosstrek, which is often driven in residential and commuter settings, low audible noise and minimal vibration are important.
Assess whether pads include shims, anti-rattle clips, or adhesive layers designed to reduce squeal. Even well-made compounds can squeal if installation hardware is missing or shims are not fitted correctly, so plan for proper installation and bedding-in procedures to minimize noise.
Dust Production and Wheel Cleanliness
Pad dust affects wheel appearance and cleaning frequency. Some compounds, especially traditional semi-metallic pads, produce substantial dark dust that adheres to alloy wheels. Ceramic and low-metallic mixes tend to emit finer, lighter-colored dust that cleans more easily. For owners who value wheel appearance or have light-colored wheels, dust characteristics matter.
Also consider how dust buildup can interact with caliper components over time. Excessive abrasive dust may accelerate rotor wear or require more frequent wheel and brake component cleaning on the Crosstrek to maintain braking system health.
Fitment and Hardware Compatibility
Correct fitment to the Crosstrek's calipers prevents installation headaches and safety issues. Pads should match the exact pad profile, backing plate dimensions, and wear sensor or clip locations used on 2013-2017 Crosstreks. Some aftermarket pads require additional shims or different clip layouts; verify that included hardware matches what the vehicle needs.
Improper fitment can cause uneven wear, increased noise, or caliper binding. Confirm the pad set comes with the needed anti-rattle clips, retaining hardware, or a clear fitment guarantee for the Crosstrek model years covered.
Rotor Compatibility and Heat Tolerance
Pad selection must account for the condition and type of your rotors. Aggressive compounds combined with thin or glazed rotors can cause scoring or accelerated wear. Likewise, if you frequently descend steep grades or carry loads, choose pads with higher heat tolerance to resist fade and preserve performance under sustained braking.
Consider whether your rotors are resurfaced or replaced when fitting new pads. Matching pad aggressiveness to rotor condition helps prevent vibration and reduces the chance of rotor damage, extending the life of the entire braking system on the Crosstrek.
Front Versus Rear Brake Pad Considerations
The Crosstrek's front and rear braking duties differ, with the front pads typically doing the bulk of the work. That means front pads often require higher friction levels and can wear faster. When selecting pads, you can opt for a more aggressive compound upfront and a quieter compound in the rear to balance performance and NVH.
If you only replace one axle at a time for budget or convenience reasons, prioritize matching pad compound characteristics to maintain balanced braking feel. Installing mismatched friction materials front to rear can change pedal feel and ABS modulation, so keep compatibility in mind.
- Front pads usually need higher initial bite for emergency stops.
- Rear pads can focus more on stability and quiet operation.
- If replacing one axle, choose a compound that complements the remaining pads.
Ceramic Versus Semi-Metallic Tradeoffs
Ceramic-style pads typically deliver quieter operation and lower dust, making them attractive for daily-driven Crosstreks focused on comfort. They usually produce consistent performance at normal operating temperatures and are kinder to rotors in low-to-moderate heat scenarios.
Semi-metallic pads offer better heat management and stronger bite under heavy braking or repeated stops, but they can be noisier and produce more dust. Decide based on your driving: frequent steep descents or spirited driving favor semi-metallics, while mostly city and highway commuting favors ceramic blends.
- Ceramic: quieter, less dust, gentler on rotors at normal temps.
- Semi-metallic: stronger bite, better fade resistance, more dust/noise.
Installation, Bedding-In, and Break-In Tips
Correct installation is essential. Clean rotor surfaces, inspect caliper hardware, and replace any worn clips or shims. Ensure pads sit flush and that any wear indicators are oriented correctly. Tighten hardware to manufacturer torque values to prevent movement that can cause noise.
Bedding-in new pads and rotors improves friction contact and reduces the likelihood of glazing or uneven transfer layers. Perform a series of progressive decelerations from moderate speeds as recommended by the pad manufacturer to seat the pads without overheating the system.
- Clean rotors and caliper contact points before fitting new pads.
- Replace anti-rattle clips or shims if worn.
- Follow progressive bedding procedures to establish a stable transfer layer.
Signs You Need Brake Pad Replacement on a Crosstrek
Familiarize yourself with common wear indicators. A thin pad thickness, worsening stopping distances, or persistent brake squeal are typical cues that pads need attention. The Crosstrek may also show vibration through the pedal or steering if pads or rotors are unevenly worn.
Regular visual inspections through the wheel openings can reveal pad thickness and dust buildup. If you drive in hilly areas or tow lightly, check pads more frequently. Addressing wear early helps avoid rotor damage and more costly repairs.
- Pad thickness approaching manufacturer minimums.
- Increased stopping distance or spongy pedal feel.
- Persistent squeal or grinding noises during braking.
Maintaining Brake Performance Over Time
Routine maintenance keeps braking predictable. Clean caliper slides, lubricate contact points with appropriate high-temperature lubricant, and inspect hardware at each pad change. Also monitor rotor condition and consider resurfacing lightly scored rotors when fitting new pads to ensure even contact.
Documenting service intervals helps anticipate replacement needs. Track mileage between pad changes and note driving conditions to better estimate future replacement timing for your Crosstrek.
- Inspect and clean caliper hardware during pad service.
- Resurface or replace rotors as needed to match pad aggressiveness.
- Keep a maintenance log to track pad wear rates by driving type.
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Subaru Crosstrek configuration to see the most relevant Brake Pads recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek Brake Pads
We evaluated candidates against performance and ownership criteria relevant to the 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek. Primary evaluation factors included stopping power under mixed driving conditions, measured by reported friction characteristics and consistent pedal feel; wear life and material durability to estimate replacement intervals for typical Crosstrek use; and noise and dust management to reflect owner comfort during daily driving.We also considered fitment accuracy and hardware compatibility for the Crosstrek braking system, along with heat tolerance for drivers who encounter steep descents or towing scenarios. Ease of installation and availability of necessary shims, clips, and wear indicators were factored in as practical ownership concerns. Finally, we reviewed reported failure modes and common complaints to filter out pads with repeat reliability issues.Exclusions: we excluded pads that lack clear fitment data for the 2013-2017 Crosstrek, products with frequent fitment complaints, and those designed exclusively for track use where street drivability is compromised. The result is a shortlist focused on street-legal pads that balance performance, longevity, and quiet operation for this vehicle.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How often should I replace brake pads on a 2013-2017 Crosstrek?
It depends on driving habits. Typical replacement intervals range widely, often between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. City driving and hilly terrain accelerate wear, while steady highway driving extends pad life.
Can I mix different pad compounds front and rear on my Crosstrek?
Mixing compounds is possible but requires care. Keeping functionally similar friction characteristics front and rear preserves pedal feel and ABS behavior. If you must mix, avoid pairing an extremely aggressive front pad with very soft rear pads.
What are common brake pad wear symptoms to watch for?
Common symptoms include reduced braking performance, a high-pitched squeal at light braking, grinding noises indicating metal contact, and increased brake dust. Any sudden change in pedal feel or noise warrants inspection.
Are ceramic pads a good choice for the Crosstrek?
Ceramic pads are often a good match for owners prioritizing low noise and minimal dust in daily driving. They perform well at normal operating temperatures but may not offer the same fade resistance as more aggressive compounds during sustained heavy braking.
How do I know if my pad thickness is too low?
Measure pad material thickness not including the backing plate. If thickness approaches the vehicle manufacturer minimums or is visibly thin compared with new pads, plan replacement. Regular visual checks through the wheel help catch low thickness early.
Why do my new pads squeal after installation?
Squeal can result from improper bedding-in, missing or damaged shims, contaminated pad surfaces, or incorrect installation torque. Cleaning contact points and following a proper bedding procedure often reduces or eliminates squeal.
Final Verdict
When choosing brake pads for a 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek, prioritize a balance between stopping performance and daily driving comfort. Match pad material to your driving habits: choose compounds with stronger heat tolerance if you do frequent hill driving, or quieter ceramic blends for mostly urban and highway use.Also confirm fitment and included hardware to avoid installation issues, and plan for proper bedding and routine inspections to get the most life from your pads. Focusing on these tradeoffs will help you select pads that deliver predictable braking and manageable ownership for your Crosstrek.
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