🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

SG

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Key Selling Points:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practical cargo space, reliable boxer engines, comfortable ride, good visibility.

Direct Competitors:

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

AWD System:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) across all trims, enhancing traction and stability.

Engine Layout:

Horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine for a lower center of gravity.

Body Style:

5-door compact SUV with a practical wagon-like profile.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All US and Canadian Market 2005 Subaru Forester Models

Estimated Page Count:

2000+

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECU, sensors, actuators), automatic transmission, manual transmission, differential, axles, driveshafts.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments and gauges, audio system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), HVAC controls, airbags, fuse and relay identification, wiring diagrams.

Body:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, glass.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, tune-up procedures, inspections.

Repair:

Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems. Includes diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting guides.

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostic (OBD-II) system interpretation, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) troubleshooting, sensor testing, actuator testing, circuit testing.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter replacements to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick access to specific information and part numbers.

Diagram Quality:

High-resolution, clear diagrams and illustrations for accurate repair guidance.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ253

Engine Type:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated SOHC EJ-Series Flat-4 (Boxer)

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Horsepower Hp:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Lb Ft:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Oil Capacity Quarts:

4.8 quarts (with filter)

Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 (preferred), SAE 10W-30 acceptable

Spark Plug Part Number:

NGK PFR6G-11 (Laser Platinum, Check Manual for Specific Fitment)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (TY755VW5AA)

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

AWD Engagement Manual:

Center differential with viscous coupling LSD (Limited Slip Differential).

AWD Engagement Automatic:

Active All-Wheel Drive System with electronically controlled clutch pack.

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 (Hypoid Gear Oil)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon)

Front Differential Fluid Type:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5

Rear Differential Fluid Type:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5

📐 Dimensions

Length In:

179.9 inches

Width In:

69.7 inches

Height In:

63.0 inches

Wheelbase In:

103.0 inches

Ground Clearance In:

8.0 inches

Cargo Volume Cu Ft Behind Rear Seats:

31.4 cu ft

Cargo Volume Cu Ft With Rear Seats Folded:

65.1 cu ft

Curb Weight Lbs Manual:

3230 lbs

Curb Weight Lbs Automatic:

3310 lbs

Towing Capacity Lbs:

2400 lbs

Standard Tire Size:

215/60R16

Optional Tire Size:

225/55R17

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

Center Bore Mm:

56.1 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

4 Stars

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4 Stars

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Airbags:

Standard front dual-stage airbags. Optional side-curtain airbags for front and rear occupants on select trims.

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters. 3-point rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional premium audio systems may be available on higher trims with more speakers.

Display:

Basic digital display for clock and radio information. No large touchscreen infotainment systems on this model year.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS).

Auxiliary Input:

Optional auxiliary audio input jack on some models/head units.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (under severe driving conditions) OR Every 7,500 miles or 7 months (under normal driving conditions). Consult the manual for detailed definitions of severe vs. normal.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 15,000-30,000 miles depending on environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (OEM specification for Laser Platinum plugs).

Coolant Replacement:

First replacement at 30,000 miles or 3 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years thereafter. Use Subaru Super Coolant.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III compatible fluid

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Water or commercial washer fluid

Head Gaskets:

While the EJ253 engine in this generation is generally more robust than earlier EJ engines regarding head gaskets, it's not entirely immune. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures. Look for coolant leaks or white smoke.

O2 Sensors:

Common failure point leading to check engine lights. The manual provides diagnostic procedures and replacement steps.

Rear Wheel Bearings:

Can develop noise or play over time. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.

Catalytic Converter:

Can degrade over time, leading to performance issues. Manual helps diagnose and provides information on component location.

📚 Vehicle History

Company Origin:

Japan, established 1953

Key Technologies:

Pioneered horizontally opposed (Boxer) engines and symmetrical all-wheel-drive systems in passenger vehicles.

First Generation:

1997-2002 (SF chassis)

Second Generation:

2003-2008 (SG chassis). This manual covers the second generation. Key updates for 2005 included minor styling tweaks and revised option packages.

Manufacturing Plant:

Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Insurance Institute For Highway Safety:

The 2005 Subaru Forester received 'Good' ratings in front and side impact crash tests from the IIHS.

Car And Driver 2005:

Often praised for its standard AWD and practicality in reviews, although specific awards vary by publication year.