Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking all-wheel-drive capability in a practical package.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail (Rogue), Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape.
Drivetrain Philosophy:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, a hallmark of Subaru vehicles.
Practicality:
Spacious interior, versatile cargo capacity, elevated ground clearance for light off-road capability.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Starting and charging system, lighting, instrumentation, body electricals (wipers, horn, power accessories), HVAC controls, engine control module (ECM) wiring, body control module (BCM) wiring, SRS (airbag) system.
Body:
Body exterior, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, roof, bumpers, collision repair information.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake inspection.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures, wiring diagrams for diagnostic tracing.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component repair.
Component Removal And Installation:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and installing nearly every component of the vehicle.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive factory-level diagnostic and repair information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Information Quality:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, wiring schematics, diagnostic flowcharts, and special tool requirements.
Document Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Diagram Quality:
Top quality diagrams as stated in description, likely clear line art and exploded views.
Binding Style:
Likely digital (PDF), if physical, it would be bound for workshop durability.
Paper Quality:
If printed, typically on durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Code:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Horsepower:
173 hp @ 5,800 rpm
Torque:
166 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors (O2), Secondary Air Injection System (on some models).
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Overdrive
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON compatible fluid (check manual for exact specification).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-5 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (check manual for exact specification and capacity).
NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Crash Front Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Crash Front Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Crash Rear Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Crash Rear Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Front Overlap Good:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Good:
Good
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Front side-impact airbags
Airbags Curtain:
Front and rear side-curtain airbags (on some trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player. Higher trims may feature premium audio systems with more speakers. Aftermarket head unit installation guidance may be present.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level. Manual covers HVAC system components and operation.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.
Keyless Entry:
Available keyless entry system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (severe driving conditions) OR 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (normal driving conditions) - consult manual for specifics.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs: 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Consult manual for specific type.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) or 45 months thereafter. Use Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil meeting API SN or ILSAC GF-5 specifications (check owner's manual for precise recommendation).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Head Gasket Concern:
While less prevalent in the 2.5 SOHC EJ253 engine compared to earlier DOHC variants, head gasket leaks can still occur. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Consumption:
Some higher mileage units may exhibit minor oil consumption, typical for naturally aspirated engines. Manual provides oil level checking procedures.
Catalytic Converter Issues:
Like any vehicle, catalytic converters can fail over time due to age or engine performance issues. Manual will cover exhaust system diagnostics.
Subaru Legacy:
Subaru's history is rooted in aerospace engineering, leading to its distinctive horizontally-opposed ('boxer') engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, emphasizing stability and traction.
Forester Generations:
The 2007 Forester is part of the second generation (SG) of the model, which debuted in 2002. This generation received a significant facelift for 2006, bringing updated styling and improved features.
Manufacturing Plant:
Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2007 Forester achieved 'Good' ratings in IIHS crash tests, indicating a strong performance for its class and era.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Often received above-average ratings for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction in its segment, particularly for its AWD system and practicality.