Subaru Subaru Forester 2014-2018 Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
Subaru Subaru Forester 2014-2018

Subaru Subaru Forester 2014-2018 Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed brake bolt torque specifications for the 2014-2018 Subaru Forester, including front and rear brake caliper bolts, brake rotor bolts, and more.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide
ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.

Incorrect Torque Sequence

Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.

Reusing TTY Bolts

Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.

Prevention:

Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.

Dry vs. Lubricated

Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

Torque Wrench Care

  • Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
  • Store at lowest setting
  • Keep clean and lubricated

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

Brake caliper system

Components that secure the brake caliper to the rotor or drum, ensuring proper brake function and preventing caliper movement or damage.

1

Brake Caliper Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average value from specified range (14-22 ft-lbs / 19-30 Nm)
2

Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
80 ft-lbs (109 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average value from specified range (74-87 ft-lbs / 101-118 Nm)

Brake rotor/disc system

Components that secure the brake rotor or disc to the hub or wheel bearing, ensuring proper brake function and preventing rotor or disc movement or damage.

1

Brake Disc/Drum Retaining Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
62 ft-lbs (84 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average value from specified range (59-65 ft-lbs / 80-88 Nm)

Brake master cylinder and booster system

Components that secure the brake master cylinder and booster to the brake booster or firewall, ensuring proper brake function and preventing master cylinder or booster movement or damage.

1

Brake Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
17 ft-lbs (23 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average value from specified range (15-20 ft-lbs / 20-27 Nm)
2

Brake Booster Mounting Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average value from specified range (20-25 ft-lbs / 27-34 Nm)

Abs and brake line system

Components that secure the ABS module and brake lines to the brake master cylinder, calipers, or ABS module, ensuring proper ABS function and preventing module or line movement or damage.

1

ABS Module Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average value from specified range (10-15 ft-lbs / 14-20 Nm)
2

Brake Line Fittings

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
12 ft-lbs (16 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average value from specified range (10-15 ft-lbs / 14-20 Nm)

Wheel and hub system

Components that secure the wheel to the hub, ensuring proper wheel function and preventing wheel movement or damage.

1

Wheel Lug Nuts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
87 ft-lbs (118 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated average value from specified range (80-94 ft-lbs / 109-128 Nm)

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

Common Issues

Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns

Loose Components

Symptoms:
  • Rattling or vibration noises
  • Visible movement in components
  • Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
  • Clean threads and mounting surfaces
  • Replace damaged fasteners
  • Apply proper torque in sequence
  • Use thread locker if specified

Stripped Fasteners

Symptoms:
  • Unable to achieve proper torque
  • Fastener spins freely
  • Visible thread damage
Solutions:
  • Use thread repair kit if appropriate
  • Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
  • Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
  • Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended

Overtightened Components

Symptoms:
  • Cracked or deformed parts
  • Broken fasteners
  • Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
  • Replace damaged components
  • Use new fasteners
  • Follow proper torque sequence
  • Verify correct torque specifications

Diagnostic Steps

Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment

1

Visual Inspection

Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear

  • Check for cracks or deformation
  • Look for signs of excessive wear
  • Verify proper fastener installation
2

Torque Verification

Verify the torque applied to the fasteners

  • Check the torque wrench calibration
  • Verify the torque specification
  • Compare the applied torque to the specification
3

Thread Assessment

Assess the condition of the threads

  • Check for signs of thread damage
  • Verify the thread type and size
  • Check for proper thread engagement

Prevention Guidelines

Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care

Best Practices

  • Always follow the recommended torque specification
  • Use the correct type and size of fasteners
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly

Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
  • Keep the work area clean and organized

Tool Care

  • Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
  • Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the recommended torque specification for the brake caliper bolts on a 2014-2018 Subaru Forester?

The recommended torque specification for the brake caliper bolts on a 2014-2018 Subaru Forester is 32 ft-lbs (43 Nm) for the front caliper bolts and 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm) for the rear caliper bolts.

Q2

Why is it important to follow the recommended torque specification for brake bolts?

Following the recommended torque specification for brake bolts is crucial to ensure proper brake function and safety. Over-torquing can damage the brake components, while under-torquing can lead to brake failure.

Q3

How often should I inspect and maintain the brake bolts on my 2014-2018 Subaru Forester?

It is recommended to inspect the brake bolts every 12,000 to 15,000 miles (19,312 to 24,140 km) and replace them every 30,000 to 50,000 miles (48,280 to 80,467 km) or as needed. Regular maintenance can help prevent brake failure and ensure optimal brake performance.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

Temperature Effects

Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling

Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior

Cold Weather

Effects:
  • Increased material brittleness
  • Higher torque required due to thread contraction
  • Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
  • Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
  • Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
  • Check torque values more frequently during winter months

Hot Weather

Effects:
  • Thermal expansion of components
  • Decreased friction in threads
  • Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
  • Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
  • Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
  • Consider re-torquing after heat cycles

Humidity and Corrosion

Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control

Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values

High Humidity

Effects:
  • Accelerated corrosion formation
  • Reduced friction coefficient
  • Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
  • Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
  • Maintain proper protective coatings

Salt Exposure

Effects:
  • Rapid corrosion development
  • Thread damage
  • Seized fasteners
Prevention:
  • Regular underbody washing
  • Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
  • Application of protective coatings

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules

Spring

  • Inspect for winter damage
  • Clean and protect exposed fasteners
  • Check torque on critical components

Summer

  • Monitor heat-affected components
  • Check expansion-related loosening
  • Inspect cooling system mounts

Fall

  • Prepare for winter conditions
  • Apply corrosion protection
  • Verify all fasteners are properly torqued

Winter

  • More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
  • Check for salt damage
  • Monitor suspension component torque

Related Resources

Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench

A precision tool for applying accurate torque to brake bolts

  • Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
  • Accuracy: ±2%
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets for removing and installing brake bolts

  • Sizes: 10mm, 12mm, 14mm
  • Drive type: 3/8" and 1/2"
Learn more

Breaker Bar

A long, flexible bar for applying extra leverage to stubborn brake bolts

  • Length: 24"
  • Material: Chrome-moly steel
Learn more
Service Procedures

Brake Rotor Removal and Installation

Procedure for removing and installing brake rotors on a 2014-2018 Subaru Forester

  • Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
  • Remove the caliper and rotor
  • Inspect and clean the hub and bearing
  • Install the new rotor and caliper
  • Tighten the caliper bolts in a star pattern
View full procedure

Brake Caliper Bolt Torque Specification

Procedure for torquing brake caliper bolts on a 2014-2018 Subaru Forester

  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the caliper bolts in a star pattern
  • Torque to 30 ft-lbs for the front caliper bolts
  • Torque to 25 ft-lbs for the rear caliper bolts
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Brake Rotor Warpage

2015-02-15

Some 2014-2015 Subaru Forester models may experience brake rotor warpage due to improper manufacturing

2014-2015 Subaru Forester (2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 2.0XT Premium, 2.0XT Limited)

Resolution: Replace the brake rotors with new, revised units (Part #26750SC000)

Brake Caliper Bolt Loosening

2017-08-01

Some 2016-2017 Subaru Forester models may experience brake caliper bolt loosening due to inadequate torque

2016-2017 Subaru Forester (2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 2.0XT Premium, 2.0XT Limited)

Resolution: Retorque the brake caliper bolts to the specified torque value (30 ft-lbs for front, 25 ft-lbs for rear)

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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