Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Description:
The Subaru Forester defined the compact crossover segment by blending the practicality of an SUV with the driving dynamics and all-wheel-drive capabilities of Subaru's renowned sedans.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute
Signature Features:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard, boxer engine, elevated ride height, good visibility, practical interior space
Coverage Years:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Electronic Download (PDF)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel, emissions control, ignition, exhaust, turbocharger (if applicable)
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (4EAT, etc.), transfer case, front/rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), disc/drum brakes, parking brake
Steering Suspension:
Power steering, steering gear, suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), alignment specifications
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, wipers, horn, audio system, ECU (Engine Control Unit), body control modules
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system operation and repair
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, roof, exterior trim
Chassis Frame:
Frame construction, body mounting, corrosion protection
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes, tune-ups, belt replacement, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and clearing
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair
Overhaul Rebuild:
Engine and transmission overhaul specifications and procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive - covers basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics
Engine Code:
EJ253 (Naturally Aspirated), EJ255 (Turbocharged - GT/STI variants)
Engine Type:
2.5L Flat-4 (Boxer) DOHC
Horsepower Na:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Na:
Approx. 162 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Horsepower Turbo:
Approx. 210-230 hp (varies by specific model/year)
Torque Turbo:
Approx. 230-250 lb-ft (varies by specific model/year)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for turbo models)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1 (NA), 8.4:1 (Turbo)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active AWD for manual, Variable AWD for automatic)
Gear Ratios Manual:
Refer to manual for specific ratios per gear and final drive
Gear Ratios Automatic:
Refer to manual for specific ratios and final drive
Manual Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Hypoid)
Automatic Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III compatible)
Length:
175.0 in (4445 mm)
Height:
63.0 in (1600 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.0 in (2616 mm)
Ground Clearance:
7.5 in (190 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3100-3300 lbs (1406-1497 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4400 lbs (1996 kg)
Towing Capacity:
1500 lbs (680 kg) (unbraked), 2000 lbs (907 kg) (braked) - check local regulations
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 33.5 cu ft (948 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 67.0 cu ft (1897 L)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (1998 model)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (1998-2002 models, with varying performance)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on some base trims
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners, load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard on these early models; ISOFIX points may be present, consult manual for specifics.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player with optional CD changer. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Keyless Entry:
Optional on higher trim levels.
Wiring Harnesses:
The manual includes detailed wiring schematics for factory audio, alarm, and accessory systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months (whichever comes first) under severe driving conditions; 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months under normal conditions (verify with manual for specific oil type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (Iridium type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years (CRITICAL: Non-interference engine design means belt failure won't cause internal damage, but engine will stop)
Engine Oil:
API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity and capacity: approx. 4.5 qts with filter)
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with Subaru anti-corrosion additives. Capacity: approx. 7.5 qts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual)
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Power Steering Fluid (or ATF Dexron II/III compatible)
Head Gaskets:
While the EJ25 boxer engine is generally robust, head gasket leaks can occur, particularly on earlier naturally aspirated models. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Automatic Transmission:
Early 4EAT transmissions can experience wear in the torque converter and valve body. Regular fluid changes are crucial. The manual provides diagnostic steps.
Cv Joints:
Front CV joint boots can tear, leading to premature wear. The manual covers inspection and replacement.
Rear Main Seal:
Leaking rear main crankshaft seals are a known issue on some Subaru models of this era. The manual provides guidance for diagnosis and repair.
Subaru Legacy:
Forester shares many components and its AWD platform with the Subaru Legacy sedan.
First Generation:
Introduced in 1997 for the 1998 model year as Subaru's first purpose-built compact crossover SUV.
Facelift:
Received a facelift for the 2001 model year, including updated styling and available features.
Assembly Location:
Gunma Prefecture, Japan
Production Period:
1997-2002 (for the first generation)
