🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Model Generation:

Second Generation (SG)

Model Years Covered:

2003, 2004

Chassis Codes:

SG5, SG9

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover

Usp:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most trims), practicality, SUV utility with car-like handling.

Competitors:

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

AWD System:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides superior traction and stability in various driving conditions.

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed Boxer engine, contributing to a lower center of gravity.

Body Style:

Wagon-like SUV profile offering ample cargo space and comfortable seating.

📋 Manual Details

Market Coverage:

North America (USA, Canada, Mexico)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500 (Varies by specific edition, comprehensive nature)

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, exhaust systems

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission repair, clutch, driveshaft, differentials

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS, standard), wheels, tires

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging, instrument cluster, HVAC controls, power accessories, body electronics, ECU troubleshooting

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, HVAC system, exterior components

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and replacements

Repair:

Component removal and installation, component overhaul, sub-assembly repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), system testing procedures

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Text-searchable for quick information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clear diagrams, illustrations, and photographs.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ251 (Naturally Aspirated), EJ255 (Turbocharged)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2498 cc)

Configuration:

2.5L Flat-4 (Boxer)

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves

Horsepower Na:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm (EJ251)

Torque Na:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (EJ251)

Horsepower Turbo:

210 hp @ 5600 rpm (EJ255 - Forester XT)

Torque Turbo:

235 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (EJ255 - Forester XT)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane (91 Octane recommended for XT models)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant.

Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 (preferred) or 5W-30 API Service Category SG or higher.

Oil Capacity:

4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (TY756 V-Series or similar)

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT - Electronic Automatic Transmission)

AWD Integration:

Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive for automatic, viscous coupling center differential for manual. (Specific system varies by transmission type and trim).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or Dexron III equivalent.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 Gear Oil.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 179.7 inches (4565 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm) (without roof rails)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.7 inches (196 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 97.5 cubic feet (2760 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 31.4 cubic feet (889 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 67.1 cubic feet (1900 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3200 - 3500 lbs (1450 - 1590 kg) (Varies by trim and transmission)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4500 - 4700 lbs (2040 - 2130 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5 Stars (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

4 Stars (Front and Rear Passengers)

IIHS Crash Test Results:

Good (Head Restraints and Seats, Roof Strength) - Primarily refers to the later part of the SG generation's testing.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (Standard on most trims)

Traction Control:

Available on some models, especially XT trims.

Electronic Stability Control:

Not commonly equipped on these model years.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side curtain airbags (available on higher trims).

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM/CD player, with optional premium audio systems and CD changer on some trims.

Display:

Digital clock, exterior temperature display, and odometer/trip meter in instrument cluster. Larger integrated displays were not common for this era.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Keyless Entry:

Available on higher trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically standard; aftermarket solutions often required.

Power Windows And Locks:

Standard on most models.

Heated Seats:

Available on higher trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe conditions), or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months (normal conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Not applicable; these models use timing chains.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF.

Head Gaskets:

While not as prevalent as in earlier EJ engines, some EJ251/EJ255 engines can develop coolant leaks from the head gaskets. The manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures for this.

Catalytic Converter Failure:

Can occur due to misfires or rich fuel conditions. The manual covers exhaust system diagnostics.

Automatic Transmission Issues:

Early 4EAT transmissions can sometimes exhibit wear. Regular fluid changes are critical. The manual details transmission maintenance and repair.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ engines may exhibit increased oil consumption over time, particularly if not maintained with correct oil type and change intervals.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Foundation:

Subaru Corporation, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, established in 1953, known for its horizontally-opposed engines and All-Wheel Drive systems.

First Generation:

First generation Forester (SF) introduced in 1997 (for the 1998 model year).

Second Generation:

Second generation (SG) launched for the 2003 model year, featuring a significant redesign with a larger body, improved interior, and updated powertrains. The XT model with the turbocharged engine was introduced during this generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Gunma Prefecture) and other global Subaru assembly plants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best SUVs:

Forester frequently appeared on Car and Driver's Ten Best SUVs lists in its early years, highlighting its balance of utility, handling, and AWD capability.

Kbb Best Resale Value:

Subaru vehicles, including the Forester, are generally recognized for strong resale value, reflecting their durability and AWD reputation.

Icam Awards:

The Forester has often been lauded for its safety features and AWD system by various automotive organizations.