🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

SF Series

Engine Code Primary:

EJ25D (2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Key Selling Points:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most trims), practicality, go-anywhere capability, Subaru's reputation for durability and safety.

Primary Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra.

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.

Ground Clearance:

Higher ground clearance compared to typical sedans, aiding in light off-road use and adverse weather.

Boxer Engine:

Subaru's signature horizontally opposed Boxer engine, providing a lower center of gravity for improved handling.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case, Driveshafts, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), ABS, Power Steering, Body & Chassis, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, HVAC System, Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, SRS (Airbag) System, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Maintenance Schedules, Troubleshooting Guides.

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing inspection, timing belt replacement, valve train adjustment.

Engine Performance:

Diagnosis and repair of engine performance issues, fuel injection system operation, emissions control systems, sensor testing and replacement.

Transmission:

Covers both manual (e.g., 5MT) and automatic (e.g., 4EAT) transmissions, including removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and installation. Includes fluid types and capacities.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component inspection and replacement (struts, control arms, bushings), steering system diagnosis, power steering pump and rack repair.

Brakes ABS:

Brake system service including pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake fluid bleeding, ABS system component testing and troubleshooting.

Electrical Wiring:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, component locations, connector pinouts, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, starter, alternator, battery service.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, differential fluid changes.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting trees.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components such as engines, transmissions, and differentials.

Specification Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and other critical data for proper repair.

Depth:

Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostics and wiring.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Searchability:

Typically text-searchable, allowing for quick navigation to specific topics.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder

Engine Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2498 cc)

Engine Code:

EJ25D

Valvetrain:

16 Valves, Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) per bank

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Horsepower Peak:

165 hp @ 5,500 rpm

Torque Peak:

166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular, 87 Octane

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil-Near-Plug configurations.

Oil Capacity With Filter:

4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters)

Oil Type:

API SJ or SL classification, SAE 5W-30 recommended

Coolant Capacity:

7.5 US Quarts (7.1 Liters)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, Subaru genuine coolant or equivalent (blue color)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (5MT)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Electronic Control (4EAT)

All Wheel Drive Integration:

Both transmissions are paired with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

Automatic Transmission Modes:

May include 'Power' and 'Economy' modes on 4EAT models.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil recommended.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Genuine ATF HP or equivalent.

Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 2.3 US Quarts (2.2 Liters)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 3.5 US Quarts (3.3 Liters) for pan drop and fill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.0 inches (4496 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.9 inches (1725 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63.2 inches (1605 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.0 inches (2616 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.5 inches (190 mm)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3130 lbs (1420 kg)

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 3260 lbs (1480 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4500 lbs (2041 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 30.0 cu ft (850 Liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 68.0 cu ft (1925 Liters)

Standard Wheel Size:

15x6.0 inches

Optional Wheel Size:

16x6.5 inches (on higher trims)

Standard Tire Size:

P205/70R15

Optional Tire Size:

P215/60R16

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 100 mm

Center Bore:

56.1 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Driver:

4-star (with potential for 5-star depending on specific configuration and testing nuances for the era).

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Passenger:

4-star (with potential for 5-star).

NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test Front Driver:

4-star

NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test Front Passenger:

4-star

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for its class and time)

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Symmetrical AWD enhances stability and traction.

Anti Lock Brakes ABS:

Standard on most trims, providing steering control during hard braking.

Airbags Front:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front pretensioners.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) may be present on some models/trims.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base models typically featured a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD or Cassette player. Higher trims might have offered a 6-speaker system with a separate amplifier.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with rotary knobs for fan speed, temperature, and air direction. Some higher trims may have offered automatic climate control.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims, offering convenience on longer journeys.

Power Windows Locks:

Available on most trims, power windows and door locks were common features.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Optional on some higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3-4 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes (e.g., every 3,000 miles).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Engine Oil Filter:

Replace with every oil change.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum-tipped spark plugs. Check manual for specific type.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial: Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years, whichever comes first. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Coolant Replacement:

First replacement at 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years, then every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 1 year thereafter.

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Engine Oil Type Spec:

API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30

Transmission Fluid Type Spec Manual:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil

Transmission Fluid Type Spec Automatic:

Subaru Genuine ATF HP or equivalent

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III (check manual for specific recommendation, use high-quality fluid).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Head Gaskets:

While the EJ25D engine in this generation is not as prone to catastrophic head gasket failure as some later EJ variants, it's still a common area of concern. Look for coolant leaks externally or internal coolant contamination (milky oil, white exhaust smoke).

Timing Belt:

As mentioned, the timing belt is a critical maintenance item. A broken belt can cause piston-to-valve contact, leading to expensive engine damage. Regular replacement is paramount.

Automatic Transmission Problems:

Some 4EAT transmissions can experience wear in the valve body or torque converter, leading to delayed shifts or slipping. Regular fluid changes are crucial for longevity.

Cv Axle Boots:

Front CV axle boots are susceptible to tearing, especially with age and exposure to road debris. Damaged boots can lead to CV joint failure.

Rear Main Seal Leaks:

Rear main engine seals can develop leaks over time, requiring transmission removal for replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Identity:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), is renowned for its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive in passenger vehicles and its signature Boxer engine layout.

First Generation Forester:

The first generation Subaru Forester (SF series) debuted in 1997, essentially a raised version of the Subaru Impreza platform, designed to offer the versatility of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a car. The 1999 model year represents the mid-cycle of this initial generation.

Generation Designation:

First Generation (SF Series): 1997-2002

Manufacturing Location:

Ota, Gunma, Japan

Production Years:

1997-2002

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Icam Award:

The 1998-2002 Subaru Forester was recognized by magazines like Motor Trend as a Top Sport/Utility Vehicle.

Value Perception:

Consistently praised for its value proposition, combining AWD capability with SUV practicality at a competitive price point.

Safety Certifications:

Earned good safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA for its time, highlighting its robust construction and standard safety features.