Model Generation:
First Generation
Model Code:
SF Series (1997-2002), SG Series (2003-2008)
Covered Years:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Chassis Codes:
SF5, SF9 (1998-2002), SG5, SG9 (2003-2004)
Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Differentiators:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Boxer engine, reputation for durability and off-road capability relative to peers.
Primary Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Mitsubishi Outlander.
Powertrain Philosophy:
Emphasis on naturally aspirated Boxer engines for a lower center of gravity and improved handling, coupled with robust AWD systems.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides Subaru dealership-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling DIYers and independent shops to perform complex repairs and maintenance accurately.
Regions Covered:
North America (primarily), with potential for global applicability due to factory origin.
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific model year and engine, but typically 1500+ pages for a complete factory service manual set.
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (EJ251, EJ252, EJ253, EJ255, EJ257, EJ205, EJ20G), Engine control systems (ECM), Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Drivetrain (All-Wheel Drive system, differentials), Transmission (4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (front and rear disc, ABS components), Wheel bearings, Driveshafts, Axles.
Body And Electrical:
Body structure, Interior trim, Exterior trim, Lighting systems, HVAC system, Audio systems, Power windows/locks, SRS airbag system, Wiring diagrams for all systems, Body control modules (BCM).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid), belt inspections and replacement.
Component Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul (piston replacement, ring replacement, gasket replacement, head gasket repair, timing belt service), transmission repair, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic flowcharts, component testing procedures (resistance, voltage, continuity).
Special Tools And Equipment:
Identification of Subaru-specific tools required for certain procedures, torque specifications for all fasteners, diagnostic equipment usage.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Engine 1:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated SOHC EJ253 Boxer-4
Engine 2:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated DOHC EJ251/EJ252 Boxer-4 (Early models)
Engine 3:
2.0L Turbocharged DOHC EJ205 Boxer-4 (GT/GT-B models, some international markets)
Engine 4:
2.5L Turbocharged DOHC EJ255/EJ257 Boxer-4 (XT models)
Horsepower (Ej253):
Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque (Ej253):
Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower (Ej255/Ej257 Turbo):
Approx. 210-250 hp (depending on model year and specific turbo)
Torque (Ej255/Ej257 Turbo):
Approx. 235-260 lb-ft (depending on model year and specific turbo)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane typical for NA, higher for turbo models)
Common Issues Addressed:
Head gasket failures (especially on earlier EJ25 DOHC engines), oil leaks, timing belt service recommendations, turbocharger maintenance (for XT models).
Transmission Type Na:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Lock-up Torque Converter)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate clutch (automatic).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible)
Wheelbase Sf:
103.5 inches (2629 mm)
Wheelbase Sg:
103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Length Sf:
177.0 inches (4496 mm)
Length Sg:
179.3 inches (4554 mm)
Width Sf:
69.7 inches (1770 mm)
Width Sg:
70.1 inches (1781 mm)
Height Sf:
63.2 inches (1605 mm)
Height Sg:
63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 31.5 - 32.4 cubic feet (varies by year/trim)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 68.0 - 69.2 cubic feet (varies by year/trim)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3200 - 3500 lbs (depending on engine and drivetrain)
Towing Capacity:
Typically rated at 2000 lbs (with appropriate equipment)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x100mm
Lug Nut Torque:
80-90 lb-ft (108-122 Nm)
NHTSA Front Driver Side Crash:
Good (for models tested)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Crash:
Good (for models tested)
IIHS Side Impact Crash:
Acceptable/Good (depending on year and specific testing)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims in early years.
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims, particularly later SG models.
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional on some later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system introduced on later models.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, often with 4 or 6 speakers. Higher trims may have premium audio or CD changer.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on some higher trims in later model years (SG series).
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Keyless Entry:
Optional on many trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically available on factory head units of this era; aftermarket solutions common.
Bluetooth:
Not factory-equipped on these model years.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type used, refer to manual for exact specs).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 90,000 - 105,000 miles or 7-10 years (critical interval, especially for interference engines).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, similar for manual based on driving.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 24,000 - 30,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 4.8 quarts (4.3 - 4.5 Liters) with filter (refer to specific engine).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (typical, consult manual for exact specification and climate recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (or equivalent P-HOAT, typically blue color).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF (or Dexron III/Mercon compatible)
Head Gasket Failure:
Common on early EJ25 DOHC engines (1998-2004), manifesting as coolant leaks, overheating, or milky oil. Manual provides repair procedures.
Rear Main Seal Leak:
Can occur with age and mileage, requiring transmission removal for replacement.
Clutch Wear:
Normal wear item on manual transmission models.
Cv Axle Boots:
Prone to tearing, leading to joint damage if not addressed promptly.
Subaru Identity:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation, has a strong heritage in aviation and automotive engineering, known for its Boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Forester Introduction:
The Subaru Forester was first introduced in Japan in 1995 and debuted in North America for the 1998 model year. It was designed to bridge the gap between station wagons and SUVs.
Generation Transition:
The first generation (SF series) ran from 1998-2002, followed by the redesigned second generation (SG series) for 2003-2008. This manual covers the end of the SF and the beginning of the SG.
Manufacturing Location:
Primary production for North American market was Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
Car And Driver 10Best:
Subaru Forester was recognized as a Car and Driver 10Best Trucks/Vans in 2001 and 2002 for its practicality and performance.
Edmunds Best Used Cars:
Forester is frequently cited as a good value and reliable used car, often appearing on 'best used' lists.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as average to above-average reliability, with specific model years and engine variants having known issues (e.g., head gaskets) that the manual addresses.
