Forester Brake Dust Shields?

[Goodbuddy2011]

Howdy folks! I’m in the middle of a front end rebuild on my 2011 Forester. I’m curious what the hive mind says on the important of brake dust shields. My originals are rusted to the original knuckle/hub, so I can’t reuse those. Are they essential? I understand their function, and want to know if they’re really a worthwhile part to have. Thank you!!

 

[Ratbag]

Manufacturers never put parts on a car's structure that are "unnecessary".

Three reasons:
1) it costs money; and
2) it's more weight; and
3) it's just one more thing to go wrong.

So, if something is put there, there's a good reason for it. Yes, it's worthwhile.

 

[Goodbuddy2011]

Manufacturers never put parts on a car's structure that are "unnecessary".

Three reasons:
1) it costs money; and
2) it's more weight; and
3) it's just one more thing to go wrong.

So, if something is put there, there's a good reason for it. Yes, it's worthwhile.

Have folks experienced dramatic downsides to removing them?

 

[Kevin]

I've not removed them but I "imagine" it would leave the brakes exposed to more crud especially when offroad.