🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Years Covered:

2013, 2014

Chassis Code:

SJ Series (2014-2018), SH Series (2009-2013), but manual covers transition models

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, those seeking AWD capability and practicality

Key Competitors:

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

Differentiators:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Subaru's boxer engine, excellent visibility, practical interior, reputation for safety and durability

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely PDF or digital format, though physical availability may vary

Estimated Page Count:

1000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive service manual of this era)

File Format:

Likely searchable PDF, potentially with bookmark navigation

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing specific sections

Binding Type:

N/A for digital, but printed versions would typically be spiral-bound or perfect-bound

Paper Type:

N/A for digital, but printed manuals use durable paper stock

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, engine management

Engine Performance:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for performance issues, tuning specifications

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission assembly, disassembly, clutch, gear shifting mechanisms, maintenance

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission (CVT or conventional depending on engine) assembly, disassembly, hydraulic control, torque converter, maintenance, troubleshooting

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differential (front, rear, center), driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, sway bar), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms, struts, sway bar), alignment specifications, shock absorber replacement

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, steering rack, tie rods, alignment

Brakes:

Brake system hydraulics, ABS, EBD, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, parking brake, bleeding procedures

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting systems, power windows, door locks, wipers, horn, interior/exterior lighting

Engine Control Module ECM:

ECM diagnosis, sensor readings, actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Body Electrical:

Body Control Module (BCM), body wiring harnesses, power distribution, control units

Climate Control:

HVAC system, air conditioning (AC) system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant, troubleshooting

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belt pre-tensioners, SRS module, sensor diagnosis

Infotainment:

Audio system, navigation system (if equipped), display units, Bluetooth connectivity (troubleshooting)

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, DTC interpretations, electrical system diagnostics

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing major components like engines, transmissions, brakes, suspension parts, body panels

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems

Specifications Torque:

Torque specifications for all critical fasteners

Diagnostics Scans:

Information on using OBD-II scanners, reading live data, and performing active tests

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including waveform analysis and component testing

Rebuild Scope:

Comprehensive engine and transmission rebuild procedures

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on required special tools and diagnostic equipment

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 2.5I:

EJ253 (2.5L SOHC) or EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbo - less common in base models)

Engine Displacement 2.5I:

2457 cc (2.5 Liters)

Engine Type 2.5I:

Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (Boxer)

Horsepower 2.5I:

Approx. 170 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque 2.5I:

Approx. 174 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm

Engine Code 2.0Xt:

EJ205 (2.0L DOHC Turbo - for XT models)

Engine Displacement 2.0Xt:

1994 cc (2.0 Liters)

Engine Type 2.0Xt:

Turbocharged Flat-4 (Boxer)

Horsepower 2.0Xt:

Approx. 224 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque 2.0Xt:

Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type Required:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum for naturally aspirated, premium recommended for turbo)

Emissions Control:

Catalytic converters, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation), evaporative emission control system

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Optional Transmission:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - Lineartronic

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (for MT) or electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (for CVT)

Transmission Fluid Mt:

Subaru Extra-S GL-5 75W-90 or equivalent

Transmission Fluid Cvt:

Subaru CVT Fluid (K0521Y0000 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4595 mm (181.0 in)

Width:

Approx. 1795 mm (70.7 in)

Height:

Approx. 1695 mm (66.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2640 mm (103.9 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 220 mm (8.7 in)

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 34.4 cu ft (974 liters)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 70.9 cu ft (2008 liters)

Curb Weight 2.5I Mt:

Approx. 1515 kg (3340 lbs)

Curb Weight 2.5I Cvt:

Approx. 1540 kg (3395 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 2,400 lbs (1089 kg) with optional dealer-installed trailer brake controller

Wheel Size:

17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels

Tire Size Base:

225/60R17

Tire Size Premium:

225/55R18

Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

2013 & 2014 models were often recognized as IIHS Top Safety Picks (depending on specific equipment and testing)

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Likely achieved a 5-Star overall safety rating from NHTSA

Active Safety Standard:

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist

Active Safety Optional:

Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning - introduced on some trims for 2014)

Passive Safety Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear)

Passive Safety Structure:

Advanced front and side impact protection, front crumple zone, Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system in rear seats

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Base:

Standard audio system with CD player, USB port, auxiliary input, Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming.

Infotainment System Optional:

Optional touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, satellite radio, and enhanced smartphone integration.

Driver Assistance Features:

Keyless access with push-button start, rearview camera (standard on most trims), optional EyeSight system (for 2014+ models).

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth, USB connectivity, available satellite radio. No native Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on this generation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil). Check owner's manual for specific severe driving conditions.

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with oil change (Subaru Part Number 15208AA15A is common for 2.5L engines).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles). Subaru Part Number 16546AA12A.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life antifreeze/coolant. Capacity: Approx. 7.7 quarts (7.3 liters).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.5I:

Iridium spark plugs typically have a replacement interval of 105,000 miles (169,000 km). Subaru Part Number 22401AA780.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Subaru Boxer engines of this era utilize a timing *belt*. Replacement interval is typically around 105,000 miles (169,000 km). Crucial to replace if maintenance history is unknown. Kit includes belt, tensioner, idlers. Subaru Part Number 13028AA202 (belt only).

Common Issues Head Gaskets:

While Subaru improved head gasket design in later generations, some EJ series engines can still experience leaks. The 2013 models are generally less prone than earlier generations.

Common Issues Oil Consumption:

Some EJ engines can exhibit oil consumption; regular checks are recommended.

Common Issues Cvt Issues:

Early CVT transmissions can sometimes experience issues if not properly maintained; adherence to fluid change intervals is critical.

Common Issues Suspension Wear:

As with many SUVs, suspension components like control arm bushings and sway bar links may wear over time, leading to noise or handling issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Subaru, the automotive division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), is known for its horizontally-opposed ('boxer') engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, often associated with rally racing and outdoor lifestyles.

Third Gen Forester Sh:

The 2013 model year marks the end of the third generation (SH series, 2009-2013), which saw a move towards a more conventional SUV styling and a longer wheelbase than its predecessors.

Fourth Gen Forester Sj:

The 2014 model year is the debut of the fourth generation (SJ series, 2014-2018). Key changes included a more refined interior, updated styling, increased interior volume, and the introduction of Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system on higher trims.

Manufacturing Location:

Primary manufacturing plant is Gunma Prefecture, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Awards 2013:

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick for 2013.

IIHS Awards 2014:

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick for 2014.

Kbb Consumer Rating:

Consistently received high consumer ratings for reliability, practicality, and AWD capability.