Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Subaru enthusiasts
Key Competitors 1999:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra
Vehicle Strengths Highlighted:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, boxer engine layout, practical cargo space, go-anywhere capability
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic & manual), drivetrain (AWD system, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints)
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheel alignment
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments, HVAC controls, power accessories, starting and charging system, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, bumpers, structural components, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Recommended maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common issues and their solutions
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring continuity tests, PCM/ECU diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic parameters.
Engine Type:
2.5L (2457cc) Naturally Aspirated SOHC Flat-Four (Boxer)
Horsepower Est:
165 hp @ 5,500 rpm (approx.)
Torque Est:
166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular Unleaded Gasoline
ECU Type:
Subaru Engine Control Unit (ECU)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug or Coil-Near-Plug
Transmission Type Standard:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
AWD System:
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential
Automatic Transmission Mode:
Driver-selectable modes (e.g., Power/Economy)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance Est:
4/5 Star (for 1999 model year)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available on some models
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with standard speaker configuration (upgrades available).
Navigation:
Not available as a factory option for this model year.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Climate Control:
Manual or Automatic Climate Control depending on trim level.
Usb Aux Ports:
Not available as factory standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (typical for the era, consult manual for specific OEM recommendation)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (critical for EJ25 engines)
Engine Oil Type Est:
5W-30 or 10W-30 (API Service SG or higher, consult manual for exact spec)
Coolant Type Est:
Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant
Transmission Fluid 4Eat Est:
Subaru Genuine ATF-HP or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON compatible fluid
Differential Fluid Front Est:
GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil
Differential Fluid Rear Est:
GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil
Head Gaskets:
Susceptibility to head gasket leaks, especially on earlier EJ25 engines (though the EJ251 had improved designs).
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged over time, impacting performance and emissions.
Rear Main Seal:
Potential for oil leaks from the rear main seal.
Suspension Components:
Wear and tear on bushings, ball joints, and struts can occur with mileage.
Subaru Heritage:
Known for its horizontally-opposed Boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems.
First Generation:
The 1999 Forester represents the first generation (SF series) of the Subaru Forester, introduced globally in 1997 and in North America for the 1998 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
