🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Model Generation:

SF Series (First Generation)

Product Name:

Subaru Forester 1999-2004 Service & Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Positioning:

Known for its standard All-Wheel Drive, practicality, and wagon-like versatility. Positioned as a capable vehicle for outdoor enthusiasts and families, offering better off-road capability than many competitors of its era.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra

Standard AWD:

Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system was standard across all trims, a significant differentiator.

Ground Clearance:

Higher ground clearance than many rivals, enhancing off-road and adverse weather capability.

Practicality:

Spacious interior for its size, good cargo capacity, and versatile seating configurations.

Engine Character:

Subaru's boxer engine provided a lower center of gravity, contributing to stable handling.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004

Engine Variants Covered:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ251/EJ253), 2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255 - XT models)

Transmission Variants Covered:

4-Speed Automatic (4EAT), 5-Speed Manual

Estimated Page Count:

1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, overhaul, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, emission control systems, engine mechanical (cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts), timing belt replacement

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (4EAT) diagnostics, overhaul, fluid changes, hydraulic controls; Manual Transmission diagnostics, overhaul, fluid changes

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front strut suspension, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, pump, fluid specifications

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (some models), ABS system diagnostics and repair, brake fluid specifications, parking brake system

Electrical:

Full wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, ignition system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, mirrors, central locking, fuse and relay locations

Body:

Exterior panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass replacement, body repair procedures

HVAC:

Air conditioning system servicing, heater core replacement, blower motor, climate controls

Exhaust:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, pipe replacement

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, fluid checks and replacements, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, timing belt replacement (critical), brake pad and rotor replacement

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair

Installation:

Installation procedures for replacement parts and major components

Diagnostics:

Advanced diagnostic techniques, use of diagnostic scan tools, electrical circuit testing

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork. Intended for professional mechanics and skilled DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for quick access to information

Print Quality Consideration:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections as needed.

Binding Type Digital Equivalent:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type Digital Equivalent:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Naturally Aspirated:

EJ251 / EJ253

Engine Type Naturally Aspirated:

2.5L (2457cc) Naturally Aspirated SOHC or DOHC Flat-4 (Boxer)

Bore Stroke Naturally Aspirated:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio Naturally Aspirated:

9.7:1

Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (approx., varies slightly by year/trim)

Torque Naturally Aspirated:

166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx., varies slightly by year/trim)

Engine Code Turbocharged:

EJ255 (XT models)

Engine Type Turbocharged:

2.5L (2457cc) Turbocharged DOHC Flat-4 (Boxer)

Horsepower Turbocharged:

210-230 hp (approx., varies by year/trim)

Torque Turbocharged:

235-250 lb-ft (approx., varies by year/trim)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane (non-turbo), 91 Octane (turbo)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) with AWD control

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all models). Manual transmission typically features a viscous coupling center differential and open front/rear differentials. Automatic transmission features electronically controlled active torque split AWD.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF HP (or Dexron III equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (Subaru Extra-S recommended)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 3.0 Quarts (7.2 Liters) for change, 7.5 Quarts (7.1 Liters) total

Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 2.1 Quarts (2.0 Liters)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Length:

175.2 - 176.0 inches (4450 - 4470 mm) depending on year/trim

Width:

69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

63.4 - 64.8 inches (1610 - 1646 mm) depending on year/trim

Ground Clearance:

7.7 - 8.1 inches (195 - 205 mm)

Curb Weight:

3200 - 3500 lbs (1451 - 1588 kg) depending on trim and transmission

Towing Capacity:

2,000 lbs (907 kg) (typically without trailer brakes)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Four Stars (1999 model)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Four Stars (1999 model)

IIHS Front Seat Crashworthiness:

Good (1999 model)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models and years

Airbags:

Dual front airbags standard. Side airbags available on some later models/trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM/CD or cassette players, with optional premium audio systems available. Manual will cover basic diagnostics and speaker replacement.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on many trims. Manual will cover system operation and troubleshooting.

All Wheel Drive System Tech:

Symmetrical AWD is the core technology, providing enhanced traction and stability. The manual details its operation and maintenance.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving) using synthetic oil, as per owner's manual recommendations. Check manual for specific recommendations.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Every 60,000 miles or 60 months. **CRITICAL MAINTENANCE ITEM.** Failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage.

Coolant Change Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (platinum/iridium recommended).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API Service SG, SH, SJ, or ILSAC GF-2 or higher)

Engine Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Head Gaskets:

While less common than in earlier EJ engines, head gasket leaks can occur, especially on higher mileage vehicles. The manual will detail diagnosis and replacement procedures.

Cvt Issues:

Note: This generation primarily uses conventional automatic (4EAT) and manual transmissions, not CVTs. The manual will cover the robust 4EAT.

Wheel Bearings:

Front wheel bearings can wear out over time, especially with exposure to harsh conditions. The manual covers diagnosis and replacement.

Oil Leaks:

Common areas for oil leaks include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and crankshaft seals. The manual provides detailed procedures for addressing these.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Subaru has a long history in rally racing and is known for its engineering prowess in all-wheel-drive systems and boxer engines.

First Generation Introduction:

Introduced in 1997 (as a 1998 model in North America), the SF series Forester was Subaru's first dedicated compact SUV/crossover, building on the Outback's rugged wagon appeal.

Facelift:

Received a significant facelift for the 2003 model year, with updated styling, interior improvements, and a revised chassis.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Gunma Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver તિહાસિક:

Subaru Foresters often appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists for their category in various years due to their blend of practicality and capability.

Other Recognitions:

Frequently lauded for its safety, practicality, and all-wheel-drive performance in various automotive publications.