🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

SF

Generation Name:

Second Generation (SG)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance, repairs, and modifications, as well as professional automotive technicians

Key Competitors 2002:

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

Vehicle Distinguishing Features:

Standard All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD), comfortable ride, practical cargo space, reliable Boxer engines

Manual Benefit Statement:

Empowers owners with the knowledge and procedures to maintain their Subaru Forester's performance, longevity, and safety, saving time and money on dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service, repair, maintenance, and restoration

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Format Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language Type:

English

Manual Delivery Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine System Coverage:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions, performance tuning, turbocharger systems

Transmission System Coverage:

Manual and automatic transmission repair, rebuilding, diagnostics, fluid specifications

Drivetrain System Coverage:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, transfer case

Suspension System Coverage:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment procedures

Braking System Coverage:

Disc brakes, ABS system, parking brake, hydraulic system, component replacement, bleeding procedures

Steering System Coverage:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column

Electrical System Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body control modules, sensors, ECUs

Body And Chassis Coverage:

Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, chassis frame, rust prevention and repair

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical diagnostics and repair, bodywork

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, error code interpretation

Diagnostic Procedures:

OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, component testing, circuit tracing

Rebuilding Procedures:

Detailed steps for rebuilding engines, transmissions, differentials, and other major components

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting for all major systems

Repair Complexity:

Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, covering basic to in-depth repairs

Component Rebuild Detail:

Explicit instructions for complete component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear text and legible diagrams

Diagram Clarity:

Detailed schematics, wiring diagrams, and exploded views with high clarity

Digital Format Accessibility:

Accessible on any device capable of viewing PDF files (computers, tablets, smartphones)

Digital Content Type:

Fully text-searchable content for quick information retrieval

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

EJ253 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated SOHC Boxer-4) and EJ255 (2.5L Turbocharged DOHC Boxer-4 - optional for XT trims)

Displacement Na:

2457 cc (150 cubic inches)

Displacement Turbo:

2457 cc (150 cubic inches)

Horsepower Na:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Na:

170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower Turbo:

210 hp @ 5600 rpm (approximate for XT)

Torque Turbo:

235 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approximate for XT)

Fuel Delivery System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel Octane:

87 Octane (91 Octane recommended for Turbocharged models)

Engine Control Unit:

ECU with OBD-II diagnostic capabilities

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (with electronically controlled AWD)

AWD System Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Center Differential with viscous coupling for manual, electronically controlled for automatic)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (e.g., Subaru Extra-S or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (Highly Recommended) or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent (check specific VIN)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

176.0 inches (4470 mm)

Width:

69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Height:

63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.0 inches (2615 mm)

Ground Clearance:

7.5 inches (190 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 96.4 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 32.0 cubic feet

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 63.0 cubic feet

Curb Weight Na Manual:

Approx. 3265 lbs (1481 kg)

Curb Weight Na Auto:

Approx. 3330 lbs (1510 kg)

Curb Weight Turbo Xt Auto:

Approx. 3460 lbs (1569 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4-Star (Driver & Passenger) for 2002 Model Year

IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:

Good (for similar models tested in the generation)

Active Safety Systems Available:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS - often standard)

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional on some trims), crumple zones, reinforced safety cage

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Base:

Base models typically featured a Subaru ETR/AM/FM stereo with CD player. Higher trims might have a premium audio system.

Driver Assistance Features Available:

Limited for 2002; primary focus was on ABS and AWD. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.

Connectivity Options:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports. Auxiliary input may be present on some aftermarket or upgraded head units.

AWD System Description:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides consistent power distribution to all four wheels for enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal service), check owner's manual for specifics.

Engine Coolant Replacement Interval:

Initial: 105,000 miles (7.5 years). Subsequent: every 52,500 miles (3.75 years).

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

105,000 miles or 105 months (for vehicles equipped with timing belts; many EJ engines use timing chains, verify specific engine model)

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

105,000 miles (for Iridium type spark plugs)

Engine Oil Specification:

5W-30 API SG or SH (check owner's manual for specific API rating and viscosity)

Engine Coolant Specification:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid

Common Forester 2002 Issues:

Head gasket leaks (especially on early EJ25 engines), catalytic converter failure, front strut bearing wear, rear differential pinion seal leaks, A/C system failures, exhaust manifold cracks.

Manual Coverage Of Known Issues:

Provides diagnostic procedures and repair instructions for common issues like head gasket replacement, clutch system diagnostics, and suspension wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Brand Focus:

Known for its horizontally-opposed Boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, emphasizing capability and durability.

Forester Development Goal:

To combine the utility of a station wagon with the ride height and traction of an SUV, creating a versatile CUV.

Second Generation Launch:

Introduced for the 2003 model year, but the 2002 model is the final year of the first generation (SF). The manual likely covers the end of the SF and potentially early SG transition details.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Gunma Prefecture)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Awards General:

While specific awards for the 2002 model year are scarce, Subaru Foresters consistently received praise for their practicality, safety, and all-weather capability from automotive journalists and consumer reports during this era.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Variable; some model years and specific components (e.g., head gaskets) were noted for potential issues, while overall reliability was generally considered decent to good.