🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

SG Series

Market:

Global (specifically North American market implied)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Key Differentiators:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard), boxer engine, Subaru's reputation for reliability and off-road capability in its class

Direct Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail (Rogue), Mazda CX-5 (later models), Ford Escape

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides enhanced traction and stability in various road conditions.

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed (boxer) engine offers a lower center of gravity for improved handling.

Ground Clearance:

Class-leading ground clearance for its segment, aiding in light off-road use and all-weather driving.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

All Models, Engines, Trims, and Transmissions

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanicals (EJ25, EJ251, EJ255, EJ257), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU), automatic transmission (4EAT, 5EAT), manual transmission (5MT, 6MT)

Chassis:

Drivetrain (AWD system, differentials), suspension (front struts, rear multi-link), steering (power rack and pinion), brakes (ABS, EBD, disc/drum configurations), wheels and tires

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, starting system, body electronics, HVAC controls, infotainment system, instrument cluster, SRS airbag system

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, roof, chassis structural components, collision repair procedures

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant service, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid service, differential fluid service, belt inspection and replacement

Repair:

Engine internal component replacement, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair and replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting, engine performance issues, transmission shifting problems

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and wiring diagrams

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content

Printability:

Printable pages

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Na:

EJ251 / EJ253 (Naturally Aspirated)

Engine Code Turbo:

EJ255 / EJ257 (Turbocharged - WRX/STI variants not applicable for standard Forester 2005, but manual likely covers common EJ variants)

Displacement Na:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Horsepower Na:

165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (EJ251/253)

Torque Na:

170 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (EJ251/253)

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1 (EJ251/253)

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended (91+ for turbo variants if applicable)

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition, distributorless (coil-on-plug for some later EJ variants)

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

105,000 miles or 105 months (critical maintenance item)

Recommended Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 (refer to manual for specific climate and usage)

Oil Capacity:

4.8 US quarts (with filter)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Na:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

Transmission Type Mt:

5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)

AWD System Integration:

Electronically controlled AWD system for automatic transmission; mechanically coupled AWD for manual transmission.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent meeting Subaru specifications)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.7 inches

Width:

69.7 inches

Height:

63.4 inches

Wheelbase:

103.0 inches

Ground Clearance:

8.1 inches

Curb Weight Approx:

3,200 - 3,400 lbs (depending on trim and transmission)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

32.1 cubic feet

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

67.0 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

5-star (driver and passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

5-star (front and rear passengers)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for its time)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Ebd:

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (optional on some trims)

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pre-tensioners, rear 3-point seat belts

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio system with subwoofer, CD changer capability.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models/trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Rarely standard, often requires aftermarket modification for modern audio devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months, or 7,500 miles/7.5 months with synthetic oil and filter (consult manual for exact intervals based on driving conditions)

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 30,000 miles)

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 15,000-30,000 miles)

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 30,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter (Subaru Blue Coolant recommended)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (Dexron-III ATF is sometimes used, but specific Subaru fluid is preferred)

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Water and windshield washer fluid additive

Head Gaskets:

While the EJ25 engine is known for potential head gasket failures on earlier models, the SG Forester (post-2005 facelift) generally saw improvements, but it remains a watch item. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Catalytic Converter:

Can be prone to failure due to oil consumption or overheating, leading to performance issues. Manual covers diagnosis.

Clutch Wear:

On manual transmission models, clutch wear can vary; the manual details clutch inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Core Philosophy:

Focus on All-Wheel Drive, safety, and unique engineering (boxer engines, symmetrical AWD).

Forester Introduction:

First generation debuted in 1997, building on Subaru's Outback wagon and Impreza platform.

Second Generation Sg:

Introduced in 2002 (for MY2003), this generation (SG) featured a more SUV-like design, larger dimensions, and improved interior. The 2005 model is a facelifted version of this generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Generally ranked as average to above average for reliability by consumer organizations during its production years. Specific 2005 ratings may vary.

Fuel Economy Ratings:

EPA estimates for 2005 Forester 2.5X (automatic): approx. 20 MPG city / 26 MPG highway. Manual transmission slightly different.

Emissions Certification:

Meets relevant EPA and California emissions standards for the model year.