Vehicle Class:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Demographic:
Active individuals, families, outdoor enthusiasts valuing AWD and practicality
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xterra, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute
Drivetrain:
Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on all models
Body Style:
Wagon-like SUV with increased ride height and cargo space
Ground Clearance:
Class-leading for its time, enhancing off-road capability
Countries Of Sale:
North America, Japan, Europe, Australia, etc. (Global)
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels including Base, Premium, L, LS, S, GT, STI (where applicable)
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1500 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Purpose:
Professional diagnostic, repair, and maintenance
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, timing belt, pistons, rings, bearings, seals, cylinder heads, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, emissions control systems, turbocharger system (if applicable)
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch, driveline, differentials, transfer case
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (vented), rear disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), parking brake
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link independent suspension, steering system (power assisted rack and pinion)
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control modules
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, structural components, collision repair procedures
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and repair, seat belt mechanisms
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II), symptom-based diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Component Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for overhauling engines, transmissions, and other major components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)
Diagnostic Tools:
Reference to required special tools and diagnostic equipment
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer 4-Cylinder (EJ25)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (NA models)
Torque:
166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (NA models)
Turbocharged Variants:
Available in certain markets (e.g., GT, STI) with higher horsepower (e.g., 210-230 hp)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 Octane (minimum) / 91 Octane (recommended for performance)
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Electronically Controlled Lock-Up Torque Converter
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Variable torque distribution)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON compatible fluid)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not directly rated under the modern NHTSA system for this era, but generally considered good for its time.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (4-wheel disc brakes)
Traction Control:
Available on select models or as an option.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, optional premium sound system.
Display Technology:
Basic digital clock and radio display. No integrated navigation or advanced screens.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Stability Control:
Not available on this model year.
Phone Integration:
No factory Bluetooth or smartphone integration. Aftermarket solutions typically required.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty) - consult specific manual.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
105,000 miles or 105 months (critical replacement interval for EJ25 engines)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
60,000 miles (typically platinum or iridium type)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gasket Leaks:
Common on EJ25 engines of this era. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Timing Belt Failure:
If not replaced at recommended intervals, catastrophic engine damage can occur. Manual provides procedures.
Oxygen Sensor Failure:
Can lead to poor fuel economy and check engine lights. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Subaru Specialty:
Known for symmetrical AWD, Boxer engines, and a focus on practicality and capability.
Forester Concept:
Introduced as a blend of passenger car comfort and SUV utility, a pioneer in the crossover segment.
Design Philosophy:
Practical, durable, and capable, often with a distinct, functional design.
Production Location:
Japan (Gunma Plant)
First Generation Years:
1997-2002
