🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2007

Chassis Code:

SG

Engine Codes Covered:

EJ253 (2.5L SOHC), EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbo)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2007 Subaru Forester (SG generation facelift) continued Subaru's tradition of offering a practical, capable, and often fun-to-drive compact SUV with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, appealing to individuals and families seeking versatility and all-weather confidence.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail, and Mazda CX-5, differentiating itself with its standard AWD, boxer engine, and often sportier driving dynamics, particularly in turbocharged variants.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, available turbocharged engine, wagon-like driving dynamics, good visibility, practical cargo space, reputation for durability and safety.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All trims and engine variants for the 2007 Subaru Forester

Page Count:

Est. 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, intake system, transmission (manual and automatic), driveline, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS, VDC), electrical system (lighting, starting, charging, body electrical, infotainment), climate control, body and frame, interior components, safety systems (SRS airbag), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Procedures Included:

Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, disassembly and assembly of all major components, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, repair techniques, component replacement, technical specifications, wiring diagrams, torque specifications, fluid capacities, special tool requirements, body repair procedures, climate control servicing, wheel alignment specifications

Technical Depth:

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

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable for professional use

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated SOHC EJ253 Boxer-4

Engine Variants:

2.5L Turbocharged DOHC EJ255 (XT models)

Horsepower Na:

173 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque Na:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower Turbo:

224 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque Turbo:

235 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual ignition coils

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR (where applicable)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all models)

AWD Type Manual:

Viscous coupling center differential with RWD bias

AWD Type Auto:

Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch center coupling with front bias

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (Genuine Subaru)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

4,505 mm (177.4 in)

Exterior Width:

1,780 mm (70.1 in)

Exterior Height:

1,670 mm (65.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2,630 mm (103.5 in)

Ground Clearance:

200 mm (7.9 in)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

32.0 cu ft (906 L)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:

67.1 cu ft (1,899 L)

Curb Weight Approx:

1,490 kg (3,285 lbs) for base models

Standard Tire Size:

215/60R16

Optional Tire Size:

215/55R17 (XT models)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Standard Wheel Size:

16x6.5 inches

Optional Wheel Size:

17x7 inches

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

5 Stars

IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Crash Rating:

Good

Active Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on most models, Traction Control System (TCS)

Passive Features:

Front-seat airbags, front side-impact airbags, curtain airbags (optional or standard on higher trims), active front head restraints, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory audio systems typically featured AM/FM radio, CD player, and optionally SiriusXM satellite radio. Auxiliary input jacks became more common in this era.

Driver Assistance Features:

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system, which integrates ABS, traction control, and stability control for enhanced active safety.

Connectivity Options:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system on some higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months for severe driving, 7,500 miles or 7.5 months for normal driving.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 15 months

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 15 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (Platinum/Iridium)

Engine Oil Type:

API SN or higher, SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)

Engine Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free long-life coolant

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Genuine Subaru Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid

Engine Oil Capacity W Filter:

4.5 US quarts (4.3 L)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.9 US quarts (6.5 L)

Known Issues Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than in earlier generations, Subaru boxer engines, particularly the EJ25, can be susceptible to head gasket leaks over time. This manual details inspection and replacement procedures.

Known Issues Oil Leaks:

Occasional oil leaks from front crank seals, rear main seals, and valve cover gaskets can occur. The manual provides guidance for diagnosis and repair.

Known Issues Suspension:

Wear on suspension components like ball joints, bushings, and sway bar links is common with mileage. The manual covers inspection and replacement.

Known Issues Turbo Lines:

On XT models, checking the integrity of turbocharger oil and coolant lines is crucial to prevent catastrophic failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of engineering robust and reliable vehicles, with a particular emphasis on their signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and horizontally-opposed boxer engines, establishing a strong following among enthusiasts and those in inclement climates.

Model Evolution 2007:

The 2007 model year represents a facelift of the second-generation (SG) Subaru Forester, which was initially introduced for the 2003 model year. This update brought revised exterior styling (new grille, headlights, bumpers), interior enhancements, and minor mechanical updates.

Production Years Sg Generation:

2003-2008

Production Location:

Gunma Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions Safety:

Consistently received high safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA for its crashworthiness and occupant protection, contributing to its reputation as a safe family vehicle.

Recognitions General:

The Subaru Forester has frequently been recognized for its practicality, all-weather capability, and value in various automotive reviews and consumer satisfaction surveys.