Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Niche:
Known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, practicality, and robust build quality, appealing to outdoors enthusiasts and families.
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xterra, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute (during the covered model years)
Features:
Standard AWD, boxer engine configuration, high ground clearance for its class, spacious interior, good visibility, durable construction.
Covered Years:
1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (precise number varies by specific year/engine variant within the range)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Online (printable)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control system (ECU/ECM), manual transmission, automatic transmission, differentials, drivetrain components (driveshafts, CV joints)
Chassis:
Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Power distribution, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, gauges, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control modules, comfort and convenience systems (power windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof), audio system, HVAC controls
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, glass, doors, bumpers, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts), chassis body construction, noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) reduction
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement (where applicable), brake fluid flush, coolant flush
Repair:
Engine repair (top-end, bottom-end, component replacement), transmission overhaul and repair, brake system repair (calipers, rotors, lines, master cylinder), steering system repair (rack and pinion, power steering pump), suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings, ball joints), electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair and replacement, interior trim repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting guides for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, electrical circuit tracing, component testing procedures, scan tool data interpretation
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and detailed body repair procedures.
Engine Options Covered:
EJ25 SOHC (2.5L Flat-4 naturally aspirated), EJ25 DOHC (2.5L Flat-4 naturally aspirated and turbocharged 'GT'/'WRX' variants where applicable for specific markets/years within the range)
Typical Horsepower Range:
122-165 hp (naturally aspirated), 210-250 hp (turbocharged variants)
Typical Torque Range:
145-177 lb-ft (naturally aspirated), 236-250 lb-ft (turbocharged variants)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Configuration:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), SOHC and DOHC configurations
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
AWD Engagement:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system integrated with both manual and automatic transmissions. Manual transmission models often featured a viscous coupling limited-slip center differential; automatic transmission models utilized an electronically controlled transfer clutch for variable torque distribution.
Length Overall:
Approximately 176.0 - 177.0 inches (varies slightly by year/trim)
Width Body:
Approximately 67.5 - 69.5 inches (varies slightly by year/trim)
Height Overall:
Approximately 63.0 - 66.5 inches (varies slightly by year/trim)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 103.0 inches
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 7.3 - 8.0 inches (class-leading for its time)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,000 - 3,400 lbs (varies by trim and transmission)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approximately 31.5 - 38.0 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approximately 67.5 - 71.0 cubic feet
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
Generally good for the era, with the manual detailing structural integrity and safety systems. Specific ratings vary by model year and testing protocols of the time.
IIHS Rating:
Similar to NHTSA, ratings are model year dependent. The manual covers the systems that contribute to these ratings.
ABS:
Available on most trims, specified in the manual for diagnosis and repair.
Traction Control:
Available on some higher trims, particularly later models in the range.
Airbags:
Front airbags standard on most models. Side airbags and curtain airbags became available on later models within the range. Manual covers deployment and sensor systems.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants. Manual covers adjustment and repair of seatbelt systems.
Audio Systems:
Factory-installed AM/FM/CD players, optional premium audio systems with more speakers. Manual details wiring and integration for repairs.
ABS Operation:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) functionality and diagnostics. The manual includes ABS component locations, testing, and troubleshooting.
Electrical Connectors:
Extensive detail on all electrical connectors, pinouts, and their functions, crucial for diagnosing any electrical issues or aftermarket installations.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. The manual provides detailed recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For EJ25 engines, the timing belt is a critical maintenance item, typically recommended for replacement every 90,000-105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. The manual details the procedure and necessary components.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 30,000 miles or 2 years. The manual specifies the correct coolant type and capacity.
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic, depending on climate and specific engine variant. Refer to the manual for precise specifications and capacities.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual specifies exact type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid. Manual provides precise specifications and capacities.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or a high-quality Asian vehicle compatible silicate-free long-life coolant.
Head Gaskets:
Certain EJ series engines (particularly earlier models) were known for potential head gasket failures. The manual covers the inspection and replacement procedure for these engines.
Catastrophic Engine Failure:
Related to timing belt maintenance; failure to replace the timing belt at recommended intervals can lead to interference engine damage. The manual emphasizes the importance of this service.
Oil Leaks:
Common areas for oil leaks can include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and crankshaft seals. The manual provides detailed procedures for replacing these seals.
Subaru Origins:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a history rooted in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its horizontally-opposed boxer engines and innovative Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Forester Introduction:
The Subaru Forester was first introduced in 1997 (for the 1998 model year in North America) as a compact crossover SUV. It bridged the gap between traditional sedans and larger SUVs.
Generations Covered:
First Generation (SF Series, 1997-2002) and early Second Generation (SG Series, 2003-2008). The manual covers the transition between these generations, highlighting key updates.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Gunma, Japan.
