🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Generation Name:

SF

Generation Years:

1997-2002

Chassis Codes:

SF5, SF9

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Usp:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models), boxer engine, cargo versatility, excellent visibility

Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra

Powertrain Layout:

Front-engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Body Styles:

5-door SUV

Driving Dynamics:

Comfortable ride, stable handling, capable in various weather conditions

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004

Regions Covered:

Global (North America, Europe, Asia, etc. specifications may vary slightly)

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typically over 1500 pages for a complete set)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (EJ25, EJ20), Fuel & Emissions, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Turbocharger System (where applicable), Exhaust System, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drivetrain (AWD System, Differentials, Axles, Driveshafts)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear Disc/Drum, ABS), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), SRS Airbag System, Body Control Modules, Instrument Cluster

Body:

Body Exterior (Panels, Doors, Hood, Hatch, Bumpers), Body Interior (Trim, Seats, Headliner), HVAC System (Components, Operation), Glass, Seals

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups), Fluid checks and changes, Belt inspection and replacement, Spark plug replacement, Air filter replacement

Repair Engine:

Engine overhaul, Cylinder head removal/installation, Piston and connecting rod service, Crankshaft service, Timing belt/chain replacement, Turbocharger rebuild/replacement, Engine diagnostics

Repair Transmission:

Transmission disassembly/assembly, Clutch replacement, Torque converter service, Gearbox repairs, Automatic transmission diagnosis and repair

Repair Brakes:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, Brake caliper service, Brake line and hose replacement, ABS system diagnosis and repair

Repair Electrical:

Component testing and replacement (alternator, starter, sensors), Wiring harness repair, Troubleshooting electrical faults using diagrams, Audio system upgrades

Body Repair:

Panel replacement, Door hinge and lock repair, Interior trim panel installation, Glass replacement

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics)

Diagnostic Information:

Troubleshooting flowcharts, Symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meaning, Component testing procedures

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, Clearances and tolerances for engine and transmission components, Fluid capacities and types, Electrical resistance and voltage values

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text (allows for quick finding of specific terms and procedures)

Image Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations

Scalability:

Scalable for printing individual pages or sections at desired size

Binding Type:

Not applicable for digital format; printable on demand

Paper Type:

Not applicable for digital format; intended for digital viewing or printing on standard paper

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ251 (2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated)

Engine Code 2:

EJ25D (2.5L DOHC Naturally Aspirated - earlier models)

Engine Code 3:

EJ205 (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged - GT/GT-B models)

Horsepower Ej251:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ej251:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower Ej205:

210 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ej205:

236 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Cylinders:

4-Cylinder Boxer (Horizontally Opposed)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc) for EJ25 variants; 2.0 Liters (1994 cc) for EJ20 variants

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type 2:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with overdrive)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active on manual, viscous coupling with electronic control on automatic)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

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

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent (check owner's manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length Approx:

175.1 inches (4445 mm)

Width Approx:

67.1 inches (1704 mm)

Height Approx:

63.0 inches (1600 mm) (without roof rails)

Wheelbase Approx:

103.0 inches (2616 mm)

Cargo Behind Rear Seat:

30.0 cubic feet (850 liters) (approximate)

Cargo With Rear Seat Folded:

68.5 cubic feet (1940 liters) (approximate)

Curb Weight Approx:

3100-3400 lbs (1406-1542 kg) depending on trim and transmission

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

4-Star (for models equipped with front airbags)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

4-Star (for models equipped with front airbags)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models tested)

Traction Control:

Standard on most AWD models

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (standard on most trims)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags on some later models

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM/CD player with 4 or 6 speakers. Available premium audio systems.

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC controls with optional automatic climate control on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Visibility:

Excellent outward visibility due to large greenhouse and raised seating position.

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically standard on base models; aftermarket solutions available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months for severe driving; 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months for normal driving (consult manual for specifics)

Oil Filter Part Number:

Subaru 15208AA100 (example, verify for specific model year)

Air Filter Part Number:

Subaru 16546AA100 (example, verify for specific model year)

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years (crucial for EJ engines to prevent catastrophic failure)

Engine Oil Specification:

API SM/SN, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for exact viscosity and API rating)

Coolant Specification:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant. Capacity: ~7.1 qts (6.7 L)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Head Gaskets:

Susceptibility to head gasket leaks, especially on earlier EJ25D engines. The EJ251 and later variants are generally more robust, but vigilance is still recommended.

Timing Belt Tensioner:

Failure of the timing belt tensioner can lead to belt slippage or breakage, causing severe engine damage.

Rear Main Seal:

Potential for rear main crankshaft seal leaks over time.

Suspension Components:

Wear on ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can occur with mileage, affecting ride and handling.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Focus:

Known for Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed boxer engines, and rally racing heritage

Forester Launch:

First generation (SF) launched in 1997, bridging the gap between a wagon and an SUV.

Mid Cycle Refresh:

Minor styling updates and feature enhancements occurred throughout the SF generation, including the facelift around 2001.

Manufacturing Plant:

Gunma Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best:

Car and Driver's '10Best Trucks' multiple times during its early production years.

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Earned good ratings in IIHS crash tests, contributing to its reputation for safety.