🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Generations Covered:

SF Series (First Generation)

Model Years Covered:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002

Chassis Codes:

SF5, SF9

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Key Differentiators:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Subaru's boxer engine, practical utility, excellent visibility.

Primary Competitors 1998-2002:

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

AWD System:

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides superior traction and stability in various conditions.

Boxer Engine Advantage:

Low center of gravity for improved handling and stability.

Cargo Capacity:

Versatile cargo space with folding rear seats.

Ground Clearance:

Higher ground clearance than many competitors, aiding in light off-road capability.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (comprehensive)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing belts/chains, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics, sensors, actuators.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, gear selection, transfer case.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls, ATF specifications.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front and rear), driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front struts, rear shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, master cylinder, ABS system, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, body sealing.

Body Control Modules:

BCM functions, power windows, central locking, wipers, horn.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, ABS diagnostics.

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based problem solving, fault code interpretation.

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Component Testing:

Electrical component testing, sensor readings, actuator verification.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners.

Wheel Alignment:

Front and rear alignment angles, caster, camber, toe.

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement.

Body And Chassis:

Bodywork repair, rust prevention, chassis component replacement.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostics for engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, and body control modules.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, color-coded electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.

Exploded Views:

Detailed exploded views of all major components for clarity during disassembly/reassembly.

Schematics:

Vacuum diagrams, hydraulic schematics, and electrical schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

Resolution Quality:

High (suitable for printing)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Base:

EJ25

Engine Type:

Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder

Displacement Naturally Aspirated:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves

Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (approx.)

Torque Naturally Aspirated:

162 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code Turbo:

EJ255 (for GT/XT models, though less common in early MYs)

Displacement Turbocharged:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Horsepower Turbocharged:

210-220 hp (approx. for turbo models)

Torque Turbocharged:

230-240 lb-ft (approx. for turbo models)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane (91 Octane recommended for turbocharged models)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with AWD)

AWD Transmission Linkage:

Integral part of Symmetrical AWD system.

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 3.166:1 first gear)

Automatic Transmission Type:

Tibronic (with manual shift mode on some trims/later years)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (e.g., Subaru Extra-S or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF-HP or DEXRON-III (check specific vehicle requirements)

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approximately 2.5 Liters

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 Liters (total capacity, pan drop is less)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

175.2 inches (4448 mm)

Width:

67.9 inches (1725 mm)

Height:

63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.0 inches (2616 mm)

Ground Clearance:

7.5 inches (191 mm)

Curb Weight:

3100 - 3400 lbs (approx., depending on trim and transmission)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4400 lbs

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 32.0 cu ft

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 67.0 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

4/5 Star (Estimated/Typical for this era)

IIHS Front Crash Rating:

Good (G) (For models tested)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

AWD Stability:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive contributes to active safety and stability.

Airbags:

Front airbags (driver and passenger)

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, rear seat child anchors (LATCH/ISOFIX).

Child Safety:

Rear door child safety locks.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems available.

Display:

Basic digital clock and radio display. No integrated navigation or large touchscreen.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Traction Control:

Not typically available or a very basic form if present; AWD is the primary stability feature.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Not standard; aftermarket installations possible.

Bluetooth:

Not available from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe driving), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (if equipped).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (platinum-tipped NGK plugs recommended).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 90,000 miles or 7 years. Critical component - failure causes catastrophic engine damage.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent blue type).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30, API SG or higher, ILSAC GF-2 compliant.

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.8 US quarts (with filter change)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, Subaru Blue Super Coolant or equivalent

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Subaru All-Season Synthetic Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (Dexron III compatible)

Head Gaskets:

Susceptible to coolant leaks from head gaskets, especially on naturally aspirated EJ25 engines, requiring costly repair. Manual details repair procedures.

Oil Leaks:

Common oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and oil cooler seals.

Rear Main Seal:

Potential leaks from the rear main crankshaft seal.

Clutch Wear:

Clutches can wear prematurely, particularly with aggressive driving.

Automatic Transmission Performance:

Some early automatic transmissions could experience delayed engagement or harsh shifts; regular fluid changes are crucial.

Suspension Wear:

Worn strut mounts, ball joints, and bushings are common as the vehicle ages.

Wheel Bearings:

Front wheel bearings can be prone to failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Origins:

Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries) has a history dating back to aircraft manufacturing, known for its flat-four engines and AWD technology.

Forester Introduction:

The Subaru Forester was introduced in Japan in 1995 and globally in 1997 as a compact crossover SUV, blending car-like comfort with SUV utility.

Sf Series Design:

The first generation (SF) was based on the Subaru Impreza platform, featuring a wagon-like body with increased ride height and AWD.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Gunma Prefecture)

Production Span Sf:

1997-2002

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition General:

Subaru Forester generally well-regarded for its AWD capability and utility in its segment. Specific awards for this generation are less prominent than later generations, but its reputation for durability and all-weather capability was established.

Fuel Economy Epa Estimated:

Approximately 19-20 MPG City / 23-25 MPG Highway (depending on transmission).

Emissions Standards:

Meets EPA emissions standards for its model year. Manual will cover emission control systems.