🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Model Years Covered:

2014, 2015

Chassis Code:

SJ Series

Generation:

Fourth Generation (SJ)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Positioning:

Known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practicality, fuel efficiency, and reputation for safety and reliability.

Key Competitors:

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

Standard AWD:

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard across all trims, offering enhanced traction and stability.

Boxer Engine:

Horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine provides a lower center of gravity for improved handling.

Cargo Space:

Spacious interior with ample cargo capacity, often lauded for its utility.

Safety Focus:

Strong emphasis on safety, with high ratings in crash tests and available advanced driver-assistance systems (EyeSight).

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service and Repair

Additional Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications

Estimated Page Count:

Thousands of pages (comprehensive download)

Type:

Professional Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF compatible)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECM/ECU)

Transmission:

Manual transmission (MT), Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - Lineartronic, transmission control systems (TCM)

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front and rear differentials, drive shafts, axles

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD, VDC)

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, gauges and instruments, infotainment system, body control modules (BCM), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), sensors, actuators

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, climate control

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, safety restraint systems (SRS - airbags)

Maintenance:

Routine service intervals, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all major systems, troubleshooting flowcharts

Repair:

Engine component repair and replacement (e.g., head gaskets, pistons, valves), transmission overhaul and replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component repair, electrical component diagnosis and repair

Disassembly Reassembly:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems

Depth:

Full factory-level detail, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages

Quality:

Professional quality, clear diagrams and text

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Compatibility:

PC, MAC, Tablets, Smartphones

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 2.5I:

FB25

Engine Type 2.5I:

2.5-liter naturally aspirated horizontally opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder

Bore X Stroke 2.5I:

94.0 mm x 90.0 mm

Compression Ratio 2.5I:

10.0:1

Valve Train 2.5I:

DOHC, 16 valves with Dual AVCS (Active Valve Control System)

Horsepower 2.5I:

170 hp @ 5,800 rpm

Torque 2.5I:

174 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm

Engine Code 2.0Xt:

FA20DIT

Engine Type 2.0Xt:

2.0-liter turbocharged horizontally opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder with Direct Injection Turbo

Bore X Stroke 2.0Xt:

86.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio 2.0Xt:

10.6:1

Valve Train 2.0Xt:

DOHC, 16 valves with Dual AVCS and Direct Injection

Horsepower 2.0Xt:

250 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque 2.0Xt:

258 lb-ft @ 2,000 - 4,800 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (NA) / Direct Injection (Turbo)

Fuel Recommendation 2.5I:

87 octane (Regular Unleaded)

Fuel Recommendation 2.0Xt:

91 octane (Premium Unleaded) recommended for optimal performance

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 2.5I:

6-speed manual transmission (MT)

Transmission 2.0Xt:

Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with manual mode and paddle shifters

Transmission 2.5I:

Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with manual mode

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active on CVT models, full-time viscous coupling with manual transmission)

Cvt Features:

6-speed manual mode (with paddle shifters on XT models), adaptive control, fuel-saving logic

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Gear Oil (API GL-5, SAE 75W-90)

Cvt Fluid:

Subaru Lineartronic CVT Fluid (WSM-232)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.1 inches (4,549 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1,781 mm)

Height:

66.1 inches (1,679 mm) (without roof rails)

Wheelbase:

103.9 inches (2,640 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.7 inches (221 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 101.9 cubic feet (2,885 L)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 34.4 cubic feet (974 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 68.5 cubic feet (1,940 L)

Curb Weight 2.5I Mt:

Approx. 3,310 lbs (1,501 kg)

Curb Weight 2.5I Cvt:

Approx. 3,340 lbs (1,515 kg)

Curb Weight 2.0Xt Cvt:

Approx. 3,525 lbs (1,599 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (Gvwr):

Approx. 4,650 lbs (2,109 kg) (varies by trim)

Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:

5 x 100 mm

Standard Tire Size 2.5I:

225/60R17

Optional Tire Size 2.5I:

225/55R18 (on Limited trim)

Standard Tire Size 2.0Xt:

225/55R18

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:

5-Star Overall Safety Rating (2014-2015 models)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

IIHS Top Safety Pick (for models equipped with optional EyeSight)

AWD:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Vdc:

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with traction control

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Ebf:

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBF)

Eyesight Driver Assist:

Optional EyeSight system (includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, pre-collision throttle management)

Blind Spot Detection:

Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert

Hsa:

Hill Start Assist

Srs Airbags:

Advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags, curtain side airbags, driver's knee airbag

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system

Crumple Zones:

Reinforced safety structure with front and rear crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit Options:

Available touchscreen infotainment systems with CD player, USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional navigation system.

Audio Systems:

Standard 4-speaker audio, optional 6-speaker audio, and premium harman/kardon audio systems.

Eyesight Suite:

Optional suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and Pre-Collision Throttle Management.

Rearview Camera:

Standard or available rearview camera system.

Bluetooth:

Standard Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Usb Ports:

Front USB ports for audio playback and device charging.

Keyless Entry Ignition:

Available Keyless Access with Push-Button Start.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles if using synthetic oil and driving under favorable conditions (refer to manual for specific details).

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replacement typically every 30,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replacement typically every 15,000-30,000 miles.

Spark Plugs:

Typically every 60,000 miles for standard spark plugs, iridium-tipped plugs may have longer intervals (refer to manual for exact type and interval).

Cvtf Replacement:

Subaru recommends inspection at 30,000 miles and replacement as needed; some sources suggest replacement around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions (consult manual/dealership for definitive guidance).

Engine Oil:

SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (synthetic recommended)

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid (orDexron III compatible)

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent in the FB25 engine compared to earlier EJ series engines, internal coolant leaks can still occur. The manual covers diagnosis and repair procedures.

Cvt Hesitation:

Some owners have reported occasional hesitation or rough operation from the CVT. Software updates and fluid changes can sometimes address this; the manual provides diagnostic steps.

Oil Consumption:

Some instances of oil consumption have been noted in certain FB25 engines. Proper monitoring and adherence to oil specifications are crucial. The manual details checking procedures.

Evap System Leaks:

Potential issues with the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system, leading to Check Engine Lights. The manual includes EVAP system diagnostic procedures and component testing.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Subaru is renowned for its horizontally opposed Boxer engines and its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which have been hallmarks since the 1970s.

Forester Introduction:

The Forester was first introduced in 1997, positioned as a crossover sport utility vehicle based on the Impreza platform.

Fourth Gen Launch:

The fourth generation (SJ series) debuted for the 2014 model year, featuring a complete redesign.

Design Changes Sj:

The SJ Forester adopted a more car-like design compared to its predecessors, with a longer wheelbase and wider track, offering improved interior space and handling. It also saw the introduction of the turbocharged 2.0XT model.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Subaru's main production facility), and also at Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) in Lafayette, Indiana, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Awards:

Consistently recognized by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) with 'Top Safety Pick' or 'Top Safety Pick Plus' designations in relevant years, especially when equipped with EyeSight.

Kbb Awards:

Often featured in Kelley Blue Book's 'Best Resale Value' awards and '10 Best SUVs' lists.

Consumer Reports:

Generally receives above-average reliability ratings from Consumer Reports, highlighting its practicality and durability.

AWD Recognition:

Widely acknowledged for the effectiveness and capability of its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system in various weather and road conditions.