Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV (often categorized as an All-Wheel Drive wagon).
Unique Selling Proposition:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard on all models, practical cargo space, higher ground clearance than typical cars, robust build quality.
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Mitsubishi Outlander, Mazda Tribute.
Standard AWD:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Ground Clearance:
Relatively high ground clearance for its class (approximately 7.5 inches), allowing for light off-road capability.
Cargo Versatility:
Spacious interior with folding rear seats, offering excellent cargo capacity and flexibility for hauling gear.
Model Years Covered:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Engine Variants Covered:
2.5L EJ25 SOHC (NA), 2.5L EJ25 DOHC (Turbo/GT/STi)
Transmission Variants Covered:
4-speed Automatic (4EAT), 5-speed Manual (5MT)
Market Coverage:
North America, Europe, Japan (specific variations may apply)
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1500 pages (comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Factory Authorized Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, searchable text)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (EJ25 SOHC/DOHC), fuel injection, ignition, cooling, exhaust, turbocharging (for turbo models), engine management systems (ECU), automatic transmission (4EAT), manual transmission (5MT), clutch, driveline (AWD system components, differentials).
Chassis:
Suspension (front struts, rear multi-link), steering (power steering system), brakes (front discs, rear discs, ABS, parking brake), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams for all systems, lighting, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, ignition, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, HVAC controls, audio systems, SRS airbag system.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, seals, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, HVAC ducting, chassis structural components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common symptoms and their causes, step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems, electrical troubleshooting flowcharts.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for engine components (e.g., head gasket replacement, timing belt replacement), transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, steering system repairs, electrical component replacement, body panel repair.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) system operation and code retrieval, sensor testing, actuator testing, use of diagnostic tools and scan equipment.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive rebuild procedures, detailed specifications, torque values, clearances, and diagnostic information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine Code Na:
EJ25 (2.5L SOHC)
Engine Code Turbo:
EJ25 DOHC Turbo (GT, STi variants)
Displacement Na:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Displacement Turbo:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower Na Approx:
165 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque Na Approx:
166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Horsepower Turbo Approx:
210-230 hp @ 5,600 rpm (depending on trim/market)
Torque Turbo Approx:
235-250 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm (depending on trim/market)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, 91+ octane for Turbo)
Layout:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (4EAT) with lock-up torque converter.
AWD System Type:
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active Torque Split AWD for AT, Variable AWD for MT).
4Eat Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent spec)
5Mt Fluid Type:
GL-5 Gear Oil 75W-90 (or equivalent spec)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-star (for 1998-2002 models, variations exist)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-star (for 1998-2002 models, variations exist)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most trims.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced chassis and body structure designed to minimize rollover risk.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD players, typically with 4 or 6 speakers. Optional premium audio systems available.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control system with A/C. Automatic climate control available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Traction Control:
Traction control system (TCS) available on some models, particularly later year turbo variants.
Auxiliary Inputs:
Not typically equipped with factory auxiliary inputs or USB ports; aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal conditions), consult manual for specifics.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 105 months (critical on EJ25 engines, due to head gasket risk).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 30 months.
Transmission Fluid Change At:
Every 30,000 miles for 4EAT, every 60,000 miles for 5MT, consult manual for specific procedures.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG, SH, or SJ certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Head Gaskets:
The EJ25 engine, particularly the SOHC variant, is known for premature head gasket failures. This manual will detail replacement procedures and torque specifications for proper installation.
Oil Leaks:
Common oil leaks can occur from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and crankshaft seals. The manual will guide diagnosis and repair.
Cvt Issues:
Not applicable to this generation (CVTs were introduced later).
Suspension Wear:
Struts and bushings can wear over time, leading to a less comfortable ride and potential alignment issues. Repair procedures are detailed.
Subaru Legacy:
The Forester was developed from Subaru's experience with the Leone and the Legacy wagon, building upon their AWD capabilities and wagon-like utility.
First Generation Launch:
Introduced in Japan in 1997 and globally for the 1998 model year. It was designed to offer a higher driving position and greater utility than traditional station wagons.
Facelift:
Received a significant facelift for the 2001 model year, including updated styling (front fascia, headlights, grille, bumpers), revised interior, and powertrain enhancements.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant).
Car Of The Year:
While not winning major 'Car of the Year' awards, the Forester consistently received praise for its AWD capability and utility from automotive publications.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by year and specific issues like head gaskets affected overall scores. This manual is crucial for proactive maintenance.
Emisiones Standards:
Meets U.S. EPA and California ARB emissions standards for its model years.
