Standard/OE$17.87
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GeoBrakes carries OEM-grade drum brake wheel cylinders confirmed to fit the Subaru Forester, the hydraulic actuators at the top of each drum brake assembly that convert brake fluid pressure into the mechanical force that pushes the Forester shoes against the drum. Available in new and remanufactured options for your Forester, every cylinder is bored to OEM specifications
Standard/OE$17.87
10 items in stock
Select your vehicle to see compatible products and accurate pricing
The drum brake wheel cylinder on the Subaru Forester is the hydraulic component that actuates your Forester drum brake shoes every time you press the brake pedal. Brake fluid pressure from the master cylinder enters the Forester wheel cylinder and acts equally on two opposed pistons, pushing them outward simultaneously toward each shoe on the Subaru Forester. A leaking Forester wheel cylinder actively bleeds hydraulic pressure from the brake circuit and contaminates the brake shoes with fluid, both of which directly compromise your ability to stop the Subaru Forester.
Subaru Forester drum brake wheel cylinders are particularly vulnerable to corrosion in American road salt conditions. Salt water penetrates the dust boots over time on the Forester, attacking the cylinder bore surface. Once the Subaru Forester bore is pitted, new piston cup seals cannot maintain a leak-free seal. Internally corroded Forester cylinders must be replaced, not rebuilt. Vehicles in high-salt urban environments often require Forester wheel cylinder replacement on the same service interval as brake shoes.
GeoBrakes stocks both new OEM-specification wheel cylinders and quality remanufactured units for the Subaru Forester. New cylinders are the stronger choice for Forester vehicles in high-corrosion environments. Remanufactured units offer excellent value for Subaru Forester vehicles in moderate conditions where the original bore was sound. Our vehicle selector confirms the correct Forester cylinder, right bore diameter, port location, and mounting configuration, for your Forester drum brake assembly before purchase.
Can I drive my Subaru Forester with a leaking wheel cylinder?
No. A leaking Forester cylinder actively loses hydraulic pressure from the brake circuit, reducing stopping force on your Subaru Forester over time. Brake fluid that reaches the Forester shoes renders the friction material ineffective. A leaking Subaru Forester wheel cylinder is an immediate safety concern that requires urgent attention.
Should I replace both wheel cylinders on my Subaru Forester at the same time?
Yes. If one Forester cylinder has leaked or seized due to age and corrosion, the cylinder on the opposite side of the Subaru Forester has experienced identical conditions and is at a similar stage of deterioration. Replacing both ensures balanced hydraulic pressure on your Forester and avoids a second service call within months.
Do I need to bleed the brakes on my Subaru Forester after replacing a wheel cylinder?
Yes. Replacing a Forester wheel cylinder opens the hydraulic circuit, allowing air to enter. After installation on the Subaru Forester, the entire rear brake circuit must be bled to remove all air and restore a firm, consistent brake pedal on your Forester.