Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking a capable all-wheel-drive vehicle
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system known for its traction and stability in various conditions
Ground Clearance:
Higher than many competitors, enhancing off-road and foul-weather capability
Practicality:
Spacious interior, versatile cargo space, good visibility
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel and emissions, cooling, lubrication, ignition, exhaust, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain (all-wheel drive system)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS, hydraulic), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, interior and exterior lighting, instrument cluster, HVAC controls, audio system, power windows, mirrors, locks, starter, alternator, battery, charging system, fuses and relays, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, roof, interior trim, bumpers, mirrors
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter changes, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacements (air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, tire rotation and balancing
Repair Procedures:
Engine component removal and installation (cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft), transmission overhaul and repair, brake system component replacement (calipers, master cylinder), suspension and steering component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and replacement, body panel repair and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II code interpretation, component testing (sensors, actuators), wiring harness testing
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.
NHTSA Front Crash Test Driver:
★★★★★ (5 Stars)
NHTSA Front Crash Test 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:
★★★★★ (5 Stars)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Crash Rating:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
E-Brake:
Mechanical parking brake
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Side curtain airbags (optional/standard on some trims), Front side-impact airbags (optional/standard on some trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, 3-point rear seat belts
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM stereo with CD player, 4 or 6 speaker system depending on trim level.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems available, depending on trim.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Traction Control:
Electronic Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models/trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack available on some audio systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe driving conditions) / Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving conditions), whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific details.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months. Inspect more frequently.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (if original iridium plugs are used).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SN
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-5 Gear Oil SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON compatible fluid
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gasket Leaks:
While less prevalent than in earlier generations, some EJ25 engines can develop head gasket leaks over time, particularly if overheated. The manual provides procedures for inspection and replacement.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ25 engines may exhibit higher oil consumption than ideal, requiring regular checks. The manual covers oil level monitoring and potential causes.
Suspension Wear:
Components like sway bar links and bushings can wear over time, especially with heavy use. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Subaru Philosophy:
Emphasis on reliability, durability, safety, and all-weather capability through Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Boxer engines.
Generation 2:
The 2005 model year represents the second generation (SG) of the Subaru Forester, introduced for the 2003 model year. This generation saw styling updates, improved handling, and increased refinement.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Prefecture, Japan
