Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Individuals and families seeking an AWD-capable, practical, and versatile vehicle for various conditions.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra.
All Wheel Drive:
Standard symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a signature Subaru feature.
Ground Clearance:
Higher ground clearance than typical sedans, enhancing off-road and adverse weather capability.
Versatility:
Spacious interior, folding rear seats, and roof rails contribute to cargo versatility.
Engine Service:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, starting, charging.
Transmission Service:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, maintenance, and repair.
Drivetrain Service:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, axles, driveshafts.
Suspension Steering Service:
Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system.
Brake Service:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS system, parking brake.
Electrical Service:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power distribution, comfort systems.
Body Chassis Service:
Body panels, interior trim, glass, doors, latches, chassis components.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement, and reassembly.
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete overhaul procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams and detailed troubleshooting for electrical faults.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete component rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Details on required special tools and diagnostic equipment (e.g., OBD-II scanner).
Digital Format:
If PDF, expect high-resolution scans or digitally generated content, searchable text preferred.
Print Quality:
High-quality paper and printing for clarity of diagrams and text (if printed).
Binding Type:
Likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment (if printed).
Paper Type:
Durable, matte finish paper to reduce glare and withstand workshop conditions (if printed).
Engine Code Ej25:
2.5L EJ253 SOHC (Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Code Ej25 Turbo:
2.5L EJ255 DOHC Turbocharged (Forester XT models)
Horsepower Na:
Approximately 165 hp @ 5600 rpm (EJ253)
Torque Na:
Approximately 170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (EJ253)
Horsepower Turbo:
Approximately 210-230 hp @ 5600 rpm (EJ255)
Torque Turbo:
Approximately 235-250 lb-ft @ 3500-4500 rpm (EJ255)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, premium may be recommended for Turbo models)
Head Gasket Concern:
Early models (especially EJ25 SOHC) are known for potential head gasket failures. The manual will cover inspection and replacement procedures.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (with AWD modes)
AWD System Type:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, mechanically biased for different transmission types.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil specification (e.g., Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil or equivalent).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid (check specific year/model).
Length:
Approx. 175.5 - 176.0 inches
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches
Height:
Approx. 63.4 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.0 inches
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.7 - 8.0 inches
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 31.5 - 38.0 cu ft (varies by configuration)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 63.0 - 70.0 cu ft
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3200 - 3500 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (1999-2002 models, some variations)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (1999-2002 models, some variations)
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good (for some models/years, check specific test results)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models/trims.
Airbags:
Front airbags. Side airbags available on later models or as options.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, often with 4 or 6 speakers. Some higher trims may have premium audio options.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Keyless Entry:
Available keyless entry and remote start on some trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Rarely present on factory units of this era; aftermarket solutions would be required.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty) to 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty), consult manual for specific guidance.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Approximately every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For EJ25 SOHC engines (interference engine), typically every 105,000 miles or 7 years. **Crucial to verify this in the manual.**
Spark Plug Replacement:
NGK Platinum or Iridium plugs typically last 60,000-100,000 miles. Refer to manual for exact type and interval.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH certified oil (check manual for specific viscosity and API rating).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (with filter) for 2.5L engines.
Coolant Specification:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant.
Head Gasket Leaks:
Common on EJ25 SOHC engines, characterized by coolant loss or white smoke from exhaust. Manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure can lead to starting issues or stalling. Manual covers testing and replacement.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can develop noise and wear over time. Manual provides replacement instructions.
Subaru AWD Legacy:
Subaru's long history and reputation for producing vehicles with standard All-Wheel Drive.
Generation Introduction:
First generation Forester (SF series) debuted in 1997, this manual covers the latter half of its production life (transition to SG series for 2003).
Mid-Cycle Refresh:
Significant styling and feature updates occurred for the 2003 model year, introducing the SG generation. This manual should cover both the SF and early SG phases.
Manufacturing Plant:
Mainly manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant).
