Positioning:
The Subaru Forester, particularly during the SF generation (1997-2002) and its continuation into the early SG generation (2003-2008), established itself as a compact crossover SUV that blended the practicality of a station wagon with the capability of All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and a raised ride height. It appealed to consumers seeking a versatile vehicle for outdoor activities, families, and those living in regions with challenging weather conditions.
Competitors:
Key competitors during this period included the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, and Nissan Xterra. The Forester differentiated itself through its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system across most trims, a boxer engine layout providing a lower center of gravity, and a reputation for durability and off-road capability for its class.
Distinguishing Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine, robust construction, good visibility, practical interior space.
Years Covered:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Trim Levels Covered:
All known trim levels for the specified years (e.g., Base, L, LS, S, Premium, XT where applicable to the generation)
Estimated Pages:
Over 1500 (typical for a comprehensive service manual spanning multiple model years)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Lubrication, Engine Cooling, Engine Fuel & Emissions, Engine Ignition, Engine Performance & Diagnosis, Exhaust System
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic Transmission (4EAT), Manual Transmission (5MT), Drivetrain (Front Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive - Symmetrical AWD), Axles, Driveshafts, Differential
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Power Steering System
Brakes:
Brake System, Front Brakes (Disc), Rear Brakes (Disc or Drum depending on variant), Parking Brake, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Warning Indicators, Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Power Accessories, Body Control Module (BCM), Engine Control Module (ECM) / Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Immobilizer System, Audio System
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System, Manual and Automatic Climate Control
Body Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Mirrors, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Roof System, Frame and Structure
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Belt Inspections and Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Tire Rotation
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Circuit Diagrams, Component Testing Procedures, Scan Tool Usage
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Installation:
Component Installation and Removal (e.g., Alternator, Starter, Water Pump, Radiator, Headlights)
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complex diagnostics and full rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting trees.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer 4-Cylinder
Engine Displacement Liters:
2.5L
Engine Code Common:
EJ25 (various sub-designations depending on year and emissions standards)
Horsepower Approx:
165-170 hp (varies slightly by year and specific engine variant)
Torque Approx:
162-166 lb-ft (varies slightly by year and specific engine variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Length Inches:
Approx. 175.8 - 176.7 inches
Width Inches:
Approx. 69.7 inches
Height Inches:
Approx. 63.7 - 65.0 inches
Wheelbase Inches:
Approx. 103.0 inches
Ground Clearance Inches:
Approx. 7.3 - 8.0 inches (class-leading for its time)
Cargo Volume Cubic Feet Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 30.3 - 32.1 cu ft
Cargo Volume Cubic Feet With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 64.3 - 67.0 cu ft
Curb Weight Lbs Approx:
Approx. 3100 - 3300 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Driver Dl:
5-Star (for models tested)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger Dl:
5-Star (for models tested)
IIHS Front Offset Good:
Yes (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims, or integrated with AWD system behavior
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Frontal Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional Side Airbags on later models of this generation
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, consult owner's manual for exact recommendation)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type - copper vs. platinum/iridium)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Automatic:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (heavy use may require more frequent changes)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SN or SP, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity and API rating for your year)
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 4.5 quarts with filter change
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent Subaru coolant, or a compatible long-life silicate-free antifreeze (e.g., P-HOAT or OAT formulation). Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine 75W-90 Gear Oil (API GL-5)
Head Gasket Leaks:
While the EJ25 engine in this era is generally robust, head gasket failures were a known concern on some Subaru models, particularly earlier versions. This manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ25 engines can be prone to increased oil consumption as they age, often due to worn piston rings or valve stem seals.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cracked exhaust manifolds, leading to exhaust leaks and ticking noises, can occur due to heat cycles.
Subaru Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing vehicles with a focus on All-Wheel Drive and horizontally-opposed engines, stemming from its aircraft manufacturing roots. This engineering philosophy is central to its brand identity.
Forester Launch:
The Subaru Forester was first introduced in Japan in 1995 and globally in 1997. The first generation (SF) ran from 1997 to 2002, with significant updates for the 1999 model year. The manual covers the later part of the SF generation and the initial phase of the second generation (SG) for the 2003-2004 model years, which introduced updated styling and features.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production was in Gunma, Japan. Later models were also assembled in Taiwan and Malaysia.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Subaru Forester has been recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best list in various years for its overall value and capability, though specific mention for these exact model years would need verification of publication archives.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Consumer Reports ratings for this era varied, with some components scoring well and others (like head gaskets) being flagged as potential issues. This manual is crucial for proactive maintenance.
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards:
Adherence to all applicable FMVSS for the United States market is assumed for vehicles sold in that region.
