Market Position:
The Subaru Forester (first generation) was positioned as a compact SUV/crossover that combined the practicality and versatility of an SUV with the driving dynamics and all-wheel-drive capability of Subaru's sedans. It appealed to consumers seeking a capable vehicle for light off-roading, inclement weather, and everyday utility.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Nissan Xterra. Its key differentiators were standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a more car-like driving experience compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs.
Key Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines, raised ride height, practical wagon-like body style, comfortable ride quality for its class.
Coverage Areas:
All repair procedures, maintenance, diagnostics, electrical systems, engine, transmission, chassis, body.
Page Count:
Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for full factory service manuals of this era).
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)
Format:
Digital (PDF/Instant Download)
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System, Emission Control System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission (AT), Manual Transmission (MT), Driveline Components (including AWD system), Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (including ABS), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Climate Control System, Body and Chassis, Interior Trim, Exterior Components, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Suspension And Steering:
Detailed procedures for front strut replacement, rear shock absorber replacement, control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, power steering pump and rack inspection/repair, wheel alignment specifications.
Brake System:
Covers disc brake pad replacement, rotor inspection and replacement, caliper service, brake line inspection and bleeding, ABS component testing and repair, parking brake adjustment.
Climate Control:
Covers A/C system diagnosis, refrigerant recharge procedures, blower motor and resistor replacement, heater core service, and control panel operation.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Inspection and Testing, Troubleshooting, Component Removal and Installation, Component Disassembly and Assembly, Component Adjustment and Calibration, Diagnostic Procedures, Electrical Component Repair, Wiring Harness Repair, Body Panel Repair, Glass Replacement.
Body And Chassis Repair:
Includes procedures for body panel removal/installation, door repair, glass replacement, interior trim removal, and frame straightening data if applicable.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Provides comprehensive lists of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for the engine and transmission control modules, along with step-by-step diagnostic procedures to pinpoint the cause of malfunctions.
Electrical System Diagnostics:
Extensive wiring diagrams for all major systems, component testing procedures, fuse and relay identification, troubleshooting common electrical faults like lighting, power windows, and instrument panel issues.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic oil changes and inspections to complete engine and transmission overhauls, driveline diagnostics, and detailed electrical system troubleshooting. Includes diagnostic flowcharts and specifications for professional technicians.
Torque Specifications:
Includes precise torque specifications for all critical fasteners, including engine components, suspension parts, wheel nuts, and interior trim.
Tolerances:
Provides critical measurement tolerances for engine components, brake systems, and other wear items to ensure proper function and longevity after repair.
Primary Engine:
2.5L EJ25 SOHC/DOHC Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 165-170 HP (depending on SOHC/DOHC and specific year)
Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 162-166 lb-ft (depending on SOHC/DOHC and specific year)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Codes:
EJ253 (SOHC), EJ25 (DOHC - less common in early models but possible)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 9.7:1 (varies slightly)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves
Length:
Approx. 179.7 inches (4565 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.5 inches (2630 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.5 inches (190 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3100 - 3400 lbs (1400 - 1550 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 31.0 cu ft (878 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 65.3 cu ft (1849 L)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months (for severe service), 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (for normal service), depending on manual recommendation and oil type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depends on spark plug type, typically platinum or iridium recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 105 months. Crucial for EJ series engines as it drives the camshafts.
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 (API SG or higher) or 10W-30 for colder climates.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues:
Head gasket leaks (common in EJ series engines, though typically less severe than later generations), timing belt replacement is critical, potential for catalytic converter failure, rear wheel bearing noise, automatic transmission behavior can be rough if not maintained.
Oil Filter Part Number:
e.g., Subaru 15208AA031, Fram PH7317, Bosch 3323
Air Filter Part Number:
e.g., Subaru 16546AA020, Fram CA8570
Brand Heritage:
Subaru, the automotive division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing reliable vehicles, particularly known for their horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines and standard All-Wheel Drive systems, originating from their aerospace background.
Model Evolution:
The first-generation Forester (SF series) debuted in 1997 (for the 1998 model year) and continued through 2002. It was developed as a 'different kind of SUV' combining Subaru's AWD expertise with a wagon platform.
Production Years:
1997-2002 (Globally), 1998-2002 (North America)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Gunma Plant)
