Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Competitors 1999-2002:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was a defining characteristic
Practicality:
Spacious interior for its class, excellent cargo versatility
Durability:
Known for its robust build quality and longevity, particularly the EJ series engines
Regions Covered:
Global (general procedures apply, specific regional variations may exist in factory documentation not detailed here)
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (exact count not provided, but comprehensive workshop manuals typically exceed 1000 pages)
Type:
Complete Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual
Format:
Downloadable (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine electrical, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain (differentials, axles, driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires
Body And Interior:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, climate control (HVAC), safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), body electrical systems (lighting, power accessories), glass and mirrors
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit diagnosis
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, body panel repair
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, electrical schematics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), measurement specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics)
Engine Code 1999-2001:
EJ251 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated SOHC)
Engine Code 2002:
EJ252 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated SOHC - minor updates)
Engine Configuration:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder
Horsepower 1999-2001:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 1999-2001:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 2002:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm (slight revisions)
Torque 2002:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (slight revisions)
Induction:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Sf:
4-star (for models tested)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Sf:
4-star (for models tested)
IIHS Side Impact Sf:
Good (for models tested with side airbags, which were optional/limited)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Available on some higher trims/later models in the range
Airbags:
Dual front airbags standard; side airbags optional on select trims
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts
Audio System Standard:
AM/FM stereo with CD player (single-disc) and 4 speakers (basic models); higher trims may have 6-speaker systems.
Available Upgrades:
Optional premium audio systems with amplifier and additional speakers
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims
Keyless Entry:
Optional on some trims
Oil Change Interval Typical:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty), or 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty), consult manual for specifics
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically 30,000 miles)
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (typically platinum or iridium type)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90
Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (front and rear)
Head Gaskets:
A common issue on EJ series engines, particularly at higher mileage, though less prevalent on naturally aspirated 2.5L SOHC compared to earlier DOHC variants. Symptoms include coolant loss, overheating, white smoke.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Can fail, leading to no-start or stalling issues. The manual will detail diagnostic procedures.
Wheel Bearings:
Can wear out, especially with AWD components. Grinding or humming noise from wheels is indicative.
Evaporative Emission Control System:
EVAP system issues, often related to the charcoal canister or purge valve, can trigger check engine lights.
Manufacturer Origin:
Japan
Core Philosophy:
Symmetrical AWD and horizontally opposed engines
Generation 1:
First Generation (SF Series): 1997-2002
Sf Facelift:
Minor facelift in 2001 (e.g., revised front fascia, headlights, interior updates)
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Automobile Magazine All Stars:
Forester was a nominee/recipient in some years within the compact SUV category during its production run.
Iiihs Safety Pick:
Earned good ratings from IIHS for crashworthiness in relevant categories, contributing to its reputation.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model years. Manual details diagnostic procedures for emission control systems.
