🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2012

Chassis Code:

SH Series

Generation Identifier:

Third Generation (Second Facelift)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Key Selling Points:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard, practicality, comfortable ride, good visibility, robust build.

Primary Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape.

Standard AWD:

Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on all trims, providing excellent traction and stability.

Horizontally Opposed Engine:

Features Subaru's Boxer engine design, contributing to a lower center of gravity for improved handling.

Visibility:

Excellent outward visibility due to large windows and a raised seating position.

Cargo Space:

Generous and versatile cargo space, especially with the rear seats folded down.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Estimated Page Count:

Varies based on specific engine and drivetrain options, but typically over 2000 pages for a complete workshop manual.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive coverage of all engine variants, including disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and repair. Specifics on EJ253 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated) and EJ255 (2.5L Turbocharged).

Transmission:

Detailed procedures for both the 5-speed manual transmission and the 4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT), including overhaul, diagnostics, and control systems.

Drivetrain:

Full coverage of the Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, including differentials (front, center, rear), driveshafts, and wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, including struts, springs, control arms, bushings, sway bars, and wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, including master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, rotors, pads, ABS system, and parking brake.

Steering:

Power steering system, including pump, lines, rack and pinion assembly, and steering column.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, component testing, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, power windows, mirrors, and audio system.

Bodywork:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, and chassis repair information.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, including A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant, heater core, blower motor, and control panel.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS control module, and related sensors.

Maintenance:

Detailed scheduled maintenance procedures, including oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt inspection and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Comprehensive troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, and step-by-step diagnostic procedures.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components, from minor adjustments to major overhauls and component replacements.

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including detailed parts lists and assembly sequences.

Installation:

Instructions for the installation and removal of various components, including engine, transmission, suspension parts, and body panels.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, color-coded for clarity.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.

Target Audience:

Professional technicians, experienced DIY mechanics, and automotive enthusiasts seeking in-depth repair knowledge.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printable:

Printable pages, allowing for hard copy reference.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Na:

EJ253

Engine Type Na:

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Boxer 4-Cylinder

Engine Code Turbo:

EJ255 (for Forester 2.5XT models, though less common in 2012 compared to earlier generations)

Engine Type Turbo:

2.5L DOHC Turbocharged Boxer 4-Cylinder

Horsepower Na:

170 hp @ 5,800 rpm

Torque Na:

174 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm

Horsepower Turbo:

224 hp @ 5,200 rpm (for XT models)

Torque Turbo:

226 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm (for XT models)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, 91 octane recommended for Turbo)

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EVAP system.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

Drivetrain Configuration:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all trims)

Automatic Transmission Modes:

Includes 'Grade Logic Control' to prevent hunting on inclines/declines.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.5 inches

Width:

70.1 inches

Height:

65.4 inches

Wheelbase:

103.0 inches

Ground Clearance:

8.1 inches

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 101.9 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 14.7 cubic feet (with sub-woofer if equipped)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 68.3 cubic feet

Curb Weight Minimum:

Approx. 3,310 lbs (manual transmission)

Curb Weight Maximum:

Approx. 3,520 lbs (automatic transmission, higher trims)

Towing Capacity:

1,000 lbs (unbraked), 2,400 lbs (braked - consult manual for specifics)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact:

5 Stars

NHTSA Rollover:

4 Stars

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for 2012 model year)

Traction Control:

Standard

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC)

Antilock Brakes:

Standard

Brake Assist:

Standard

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available touch-screen infotainment system with navigation (optional). Standard audio system includes CD player, auxiliary input, and satellite radio. Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming also available on higher trims.

Display Size:

6.1 or 7-inch touch screen (optional).

Rearview Camera:

Available on some trims.

Keyless Entry:

Standard on most trims, optional smart key system with push-button start on Limited trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard, steering wheel mounted.

Usb Port:

Available.

Bluetooth:

Available for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe duty) or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal duty), using synthetic oil. Consult manual for specific details.

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plugs:

Iridium type: Replace every 105,000 miles. Consult manual for exact type and torque.

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 11 years or 132,000 miles, then every 5 years or 66,000 miles thereafter (Subaru Super Coolant).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Inspect every 30,000 miles. Subaru generally recommends fluid changes based on severe driving conditions, or at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles). Consult manual and actual condition.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Inspect every 30,000 miles. Replace typically around 100,000 miles, or per manual recommendations.

Differential Fluid:

Inspect every 30,000 miles. Replace rear differential fluid at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles), or per manual recommendations.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20, API SN, ILSAC GF-5 certified (Subaru Synthetic Engine Oil recommended).

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) with filter (EJ253).

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent long-life ethylene glycol coolant. Do NOT mix colors.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent. Consult manual for exact spec.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 Gear Oil (Subaru ExtraS Synthetic Gear Oil recommended).

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF. Check manual for specific recommendation.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Head Gaskets:

While improved over earlier generations, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly if maintenance is neglected.

Catalytic Converter:

Can degrade over time, leading to reduced engine performance and check engine lights.

Wheel Bearings:

Can become noisy (humming or grinding) and require replacement, especially after high mileage or exposure to harsh conditions.

Rear Main Seal:

Occasional leaks can occur and require engine removal for replacement.

Automatic Transmission:

While generally reliable, some early 4EAT units can develop issues if fluid is not maintained. Consider occasional fluid changes beyond Subaru's minimal recommendations.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Subaru is renowned for its boxer engines and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, particularly in its SUV and wagon offerings.

Forester Introduction Year:

1997 (First Generation)

Third Gen Introduction:

2008

Third Gen Facelift:

2011 (for the 2011 model year, encompassing the 2012 model year)

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Plant, Japan

Production Years For Series:

2008-2013

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Award:

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick.

Kelley Blue Book:

Often cited by automotive publications like Kelley Blue Book for its value and practicality in its segment.

Consumer Reports:

Generally receives good ratings from consumer organizations for reliability and owner satisfaction, though specific model years can vary.