Vehicle Type:
Compact Crossover SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle
Key Selling Points:
All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD) standard, practical utility, good visibility, robust build quality.
Competitors 1999 2002:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level repair information, empowering owners and independent mechanics to perform complex diagnostics and repairs, saving on labor costs.
Primary Coverage:
North America, Global Markets
Market Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (exact count not specified, but implies comprehensive coverage)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual (Factory Official)
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic)
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System, Differentials, Drive Shafts, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Audio System, Power Accessories, Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Roof Rack
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Changes, Tune-Ups, Belt Replacement
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair/Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Component Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair, Bodywork Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing Procedures
Installation:
Component Installation & Removal, Accessory Installation
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.
Digital Format:
Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing.
Printability:
Designed for printing, allowing users to create a physical copy of sections or the entire manual.
Physical Binding Suggestion:
Spiral-bound or three-ring binder recommended for ease of use during repairs.
Suggested Paper For Printing:
Durable, uncoated paper (e.g., 24 lb bond) for workshop environments.
Engine Code Usdm:
EJ25 SOHC (2.5L Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Description:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) Four-Cylinder, SOHC, Naturally Aspirated
Horsepower Usdm:
165 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque Usdm:
166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Codes Other Markets
Ej20 Turbo Availability:
Some international markets may have offered turbocharged EJ20 engines (e.g., GT trims).
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Lock-up Torque Converter
AWD System Integration:
Both transmissions are coupled to Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, featuring viscous coupling center differentials.
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4-star (driver and front passenger, 1999-2002 models)
Standard Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for enhanced traction and stability.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on higher trims.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point height-adjustable seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player and/or cassette tape, typically 4 or 6 speaker system. Upgrades possible.
ABS Availability:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select trims, particularly for the rear wheels, later models may have 4-wheel ABS.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims, electronic cruise control system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,750 miles or 6 months (check manual for specific oil type and conditions).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (refer to manual for conditions).
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (platinum/iridium tipped plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
100,000 miles (Non-interference engine, but replacement is crucial for reliability).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 recommended (check manual for ambient temperature range).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (with filter) for 2.5L SOHC.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, Subaru blue).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Subaru Extra S (GL-5 75W-90) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid (check manual for specifics).
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90.
Head Gaskets:
While later generations are more prone, early EJ25 engines can exhibit head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Radiator Leaks:
Plastic end tanks on radiators can become brittle and leak over time. Manual covers replacement.
Cv Axle Boots:
Front CV axle boots can split, leading to grease loss and eventual joint failure. Manual provides replacement guides.
Consumer Reports Rating:
Forester generally received good ratings for reliability and safety in its class during its production run, though specific annual ratings vary.
Edmunds Rating:
Praised for its practicality, AWD system, and refined ride for the era.
Safety Certifications:
Compliant with US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
