🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

SF

Engine Code Primary:

EJ253

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Key Selling Points:

Standard All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD), Practicality, Reliability, Boxer Engine Configuration

Key Competitors 2004:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra

AWD System:

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS)

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians and Enthusiasts

Estimated Page Count:

~1500-2000 pages (typical for full factory service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (AWD System, Differentials, Axles)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, Parking Brake)

Electrical:

Starting System, Charging System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, HVAC System, Audio System, Body Control Modules, Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

Body:

Body Exterior, Body Interior, Doors, Windows, Roof, Seats, Restraints (Airbags)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and top-offs, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspections and replacement

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Symptom-based troubleshooting, Electrical circuit testing, Component testing

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper/rotor replacement, Electrical component replacement

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, Clearances, Wiring diagrams, Vacuum diagrams, Diagnostic procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive (covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (enabling quick finding of specific information)

Resolution:

High-resolution scans, suitable for printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated, SOHC, 16-valve Boxer-4

Engine Code:

EJ253

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Horsepower Peak:

165 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque Peak:

166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type Recommendation:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

AWD Integration:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive integrated with both transmission types

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,450 mm (175.2 in)

Width:

1,735 mm (68.3 in)

Height:

1,590 mm (62.6 in)

Wheelbase:

2,630 mm (103.5 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

1,450 - 1,550 kg (3,197 - 3,417 lbs)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

33.5 cu ft

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

67.7 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

★★★★★ (5-star)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

★★★★★ (5-star)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:

Good

Vehicle Dynamics Control:

Standard

Traction Control System:

Standard

Antilock Braking System:

Standard

Airbags Front:

Dual Frontal Airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional Side Curtain Airbags (availability dependent on trim)

Seatbelts:

Pretensioner front seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player; Optional premium audio with subwoofer; Auxiliary input (on some models/trims)

Cruise Control:

Standard

Bluetooth Handsfree:

Not available from the factory; aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Engine Oil:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal driving) - Consult Owner's Manual for specifics

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, Replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 100,000 miles (platinum tipped)

Engine Oil Type:

5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API SN or higher)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 US quarts (with filter)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Subaru ATF HP or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than on earlier EJ25 engines, head gasket leaks can still occur on the EJ253. This manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures.

Catalytic Converter:

Premature failure can occur, often related to engine misfires or oil consumption. The manual covers diagnosis and replacement.

Wheel Bearings:

Can be prone to wear, especially with off-road use or if AWD system is neglected. Manual details replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Subaru's long history in rally racing and its specialization in All-Wheel Drive technology

Forester Generations:

This 2004 model belongs to the first generation (SF, 1997-2002) facelifted version or the early part of the second generation (SG, 2003-2008). The 2004 model year marks the transition or is firmly within the second generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Generally rated as average to above-average reliability by automotive publications, with AWD system being a strong point.

Fuel Economy Mpg City:

19-20 MPG (approximate, depending on transmission)

Fuel Economy Mpg Highway:

23-26 MPG (approximate, depending on transmission)