🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Product Name:

Subaru Forester 1998-2004 Service Repair Manual

Covered Years:

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

Chassis Codes:

SF, SG (early SG models)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Subaru Forester of this generation established itself as a capable and practical compact SUV, blending car-like handling with all-wheel-drive capability. It appealed to a demographic seeking versatility for everyday use and light off-road adventures.

Competitors:

Key competitors during this period included the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra, and Ford Escape. The Forester differentiated itself with its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and Subaru's horizontally-opposed 'boxer' engine.

Value Proposition:

Offers robust all-wheel-drive performance, a comfortable ride, good visibility, and practical cargo space, making it a compelling choice for individuals and families.

Diy Benefit:

This manual empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper upkeep of their vehicle.

Completeness:

The description 'Cover everythings, the best bang for the buck everywhere!!!' suggests a highly comprehensive manual, aiming to cover all aspects of vehicle servicing and repair for the specified years.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Mechanical, Electrical, Body

Secondary Coverage:

Diagnostics, Maintenance, Repair, Troubleshooting

Estimated Page Count:

Likely exceeds 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

2.5L EJ25 SOHC/DOHC Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged variants, including intercooler system for turbo models.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS, parking brake, brake fluid service.

Exhaust:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, oxygen sensors.

Transmission:

Manual (5-speed) and Automatic (4-speed) transmissions, clutch system, torque converter.

Drivetrain:

Center differential (All-Wheel Drive system), front and rear differentials, CV joints, driveshafts.

Suspension:

Front struts, rear struts, control arms, sway bars, bushings, wheel bearings.

Steering:

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

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, power accessories, fuses, relays.

Body:

Body panels, doors, interior trim, glass, bumpers, fuel system, cooling system.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, belt replacement, tune-ups.

Repair:

Engine component replacement (e.g., head gaskets, timing belt), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, braking issues, and drivability concerns, often including symptom-based troubleshooting charts.

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic scheduled maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced electrical troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if originally created from digital source or properly OCR'd.

Quality:

Dependent on original source, but generally expected to be clear and legible for technical information.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Naturally Aspirated:

EJ25D (SOHC) and EJ253 (SOHC)

Engine Code Turbocharged:

EJ255 (DOHC, often referred to as WRX-based engine in later models of this range)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2498cc)

Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

Approximately 165-170 hp (varies by year and specific engine variant)

Torque Naturally Aspirated:

Approximately 162-166 lb-ft (varies by year and specific engine variant)

Horsepower Turbocharged:

Approximately 210-227 hp (varies by year and specific engine variant, e.g., GT models)

Torque Turbocharged:

Approximately 235-270 lb-ft (varies by year and specific engine variant)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, higher for Turbo models)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free long-life coolant.

Spark Plugs:

NGK PFR5B or similar platinum-tipped plugs (check specific application for best results).

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Recommended every 105,000 miles or 7 years (whichever comes first) for EJ25 engines. Critical component.

🔧 Transmission

Type Naturally Aspirated:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (with viscous center differential)

Type Automatic:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Active All-Wheel Drive system or viscous coupling)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard across all models).

Atf Type:

Subaru Genuine ATF or Dexron III compatible fluid.

Mtf Type:

Subaru Genuine Manual Transmission Fluid or equivalent GL-5 75W-90 gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.0 inches (2616 mm)

Length:

Approx. 177.0 - 179.5 inches (4496 - 4560 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63.2 inches (1605 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.7 inches (196 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100 - 3400 lbs (1406 - 1542 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 4500 lbs (2041 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 35.4 cubic feet (1002 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 68.5 cubic feet (1940 liters)

Wheel Size:

15-inch or 16-inch alloy or steel wheels.

Tire Sizes:

Commonly 205/70R15, 215/60R16, or 225/55R17 depending on trim and year.

Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Received 4-star ratings for driver and front passenger in frontal crash tests.

IIHS Ratings:

Generally performed well for its class, though specific ratings can vary by year.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) on later models.

Airbags:

Dual front airbags; optional side airbags on some later models.

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory installed AM/FM/CD player, with optional cassette player on earlier models. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control system.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were available on higher trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specific recommendations).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Replace as needed, typically every 15,000-30,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 or 10W-30 (consult manual based on temperature range).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5-5.0 US quarts (4.3-4.7 liters) with filter, depending on engine variant.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.7-7.2 US quarts (6.3-6.8 liters), depending on engine and radiator.

Head Gaskets:

A common and well-documented issue on EJ25 engines, particularly SOHC variants from this era. Leaks can occur externally or internally (coolant into oil or combustion chambers).

Timing Belt Tensioner:

The automatic tensioner for the timing belt can fail, leading to belt slippage or failure. It's often recommended to replace the tensioner, idler pulleys, and water pump when replacing the timing belt.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front crank seals can develop leaks over time.

Catalytic Converter:

Can become clogged or fail, affecting engine performance and emissions.

Suspension Wear:

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

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Philosophy:

Subaru is known for its engineering prowess, particularly its development of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and horizontally-opposed boxer engines, contributing to a reputation for durability and capability in adverse conditions.

Generation 1 Sf:

The first generation (SF) Subaru Forester debuted in 1997 (for the 1998 model year) as a unique crossover. It combined the ride height and AWD of an SUV with the driving dynamics and comfort of a wagon.

Generation 2 Sg:

The second generation (SG) was introduced for the 2003 model year. While the manual covers up to 2004, these are the early models of the SG generation, which featured styling updates and mechanical refinements.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car Of The Year Nominations:

Subaru vehicles often receive positive reviews for their practicality and AWD capabilities, contributing to brand loyalty.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings can vary by specific year and engine type; the manual helps in addressing common issues.

Emissions Standards:

Vehicles conform to EPA and CARB emissions standards for their respective model years.