Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV / Station Wagon
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking AWD capability and practicality
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra
Differentiators:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), boxer engine configuration, excellent visibility, cargo versatility
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical data and procedures for DIY maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair, reducing reliance on dealership service.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Repair and Maintenance
Diagnostic Focus:
Troubleshooting and problem determination
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, though print versions may exist)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management (ECU), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain (differentials, axles, driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, HVAC system, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspection procedures
Repair:
Component removal and installation, major component overhauls, specific repair instructions for all major systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code diagnosis
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameters
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full component rebuilds and diagnostics)
Diagnostic Tools:
References to Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) or equivalent diagnostic tools and procedures
Digital Format:
PDF (typically optimized for searchability and printability)
Print Quality Considerations:
High-resolution images, clear diagrams, legible text for easy printing of specific sections
Binding Type For Print:
Coil-bound or comb-bound for lay-flat use in workshop environments
Paper Type For Print:
Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to resist shop fluids and wear
Engine Code:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed)
Displacement:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque:
166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point Sequential Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug (COP) or coil packs
ECU Type:
Subaru Engine Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostics
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Drivetrain Layout:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all models
AWD System Type:
Viscous coupling limited-slip center differential (manual) or electronically controlled clutch (automatic)
Length:
Approx. 177.0 inches (4496 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.9 inches (1725 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.6 inches (1615 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.0 inches (2616 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 31.8 cubic feet (0.90 m³)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 67.5 cubic feet (1.91 m³)
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 3,180 lbs (1442 kg)
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 3,360 lbs (1524 kg)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models
Airbags:
Front airbags standard; available front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs (if applicable), or consult manual for specific plug type intervals
Engine Oil Type And Capacity:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher), capacity 4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid, capacity approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 Liters) for fluid change
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
SAE 75W-90 (API GL-5) gear oil, capacity approx. 2.0 US quarts (1.9 Liters)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent P-HOAT coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 7.0 US quarts (6.6 Liters)
Head Gasket Failures:
While less common than on later EJ25 engines, early EJ253 engines can still experience head gasket failures. The manual provides diagnostic procedures.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Oil leaks from the rear main seal can occur. The manual details the procedure for replacement, which is labor-intensive.
Catalytic Converter Issues:
Some models may experience premature catalytic converter failure, often indicated by P0420 codes. The manual aids in diagnosing exhaust system faults.
Automatic Transmission Slipping:
Premature wear in the automatic transmission can lead to slipping. The manual provides diagnostic steps and rebuild information.
Subaru Legacy Relationship:
The Forester was developed from the Subaru Impreza platform, sharing many mechanical components but featuring a taller ride height and SUV-like body style.
First Generation Introduction:
The first generation (SF) Forester debuted in Japan in 1997 and was released in North America for the 1998 model year. The 1999-2002 models represent the later part of this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Car And Driver Best SUV:
Car and Driver magazine often recognized the Forester for its practicality and AWD system in its annual '10Best' lists during this era.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally received good to excellent reliability ratings from Consumer Reports during its production run, though specific model year ratings varied.
