🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Years Covered:

1998-2006

Chassis Codes:

SF, SG

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Key Selling Points:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most trims), Boxer Engine, Practicality, Durability

Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra (early models), Mazda Tribute

Manual Features:

Extensive coverage, detailed diagrams, step-by-step procedures, parts cross-referencing, diagnostic information

Target Audience:

DIY Mechanics, Independent Repair Shops, Subaru Enthusiasts

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive Service and Parts Information

Estimated Page Count:

Thousands (Multiple Volumes/Sections)

Type:

Master Service Manual & Parts Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

EJ251, EJ252, EJ253 (Naturally Aspirated), EJ255 (Turbocharged), EJ20 Series (Select Markets), Engine Mechanical, Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel, Ignition, Emissions, ECU/ECM Diagnosis

Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (4EAT), 5-Speed Manual (MT), Transmission Control Systems, Clutch Operation, Drive Axles, Differentials (Front, Center, Rear)

Brakes:

Front Disc, Rear Disc/Drum (Model Dependent), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Parking Brake, Hydraulic System Components, Brake Fluid Specifications

Suspension Steering:

Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-link/Trailing Arm, Coil Springs, Shock Absorbers, Bushings, Wheel Bearings, Power Steering System, Steering Column, Alignment Specifications

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System, Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Wipers/Washers, Horn, Power Windows/Locks, Mirrors, Audio System, HVAC Controls, ECU/ECM Wiring Diagrams, Sensor Locations and Functions, Fuses and Relays

Body Chassis:

Body Construction, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Seating Systems, Chassis Components, Rust Prevention, Body Repair Procedures, Paint Codes

HVAC:

Air Conditioning System (Refrigerant Type R-134a), Heater System, Blower Motor, Controls, Cabin Air Filter Replacement

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Air Filter Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Transmission Fluid Change, Differential Fluid Change, Belt Inspections and Replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Flowcharts for Common Issues, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation

Repair Rebuild:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuilds, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement, HVAC System Servicing

Specifications:

Torque Specifications for all fasteners, Clearance Measurements, Gapping Procedures, Diagnostic Specifications, Alignment Angles

Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes and component replacement to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork. Includes factory-level detail.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely Text-Searchable PDF (depending on original scan quality)

Printability:

Yes

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Operating Systems:

Windows, macOS, Linux

Software:

Adobe PDF Reader

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes:

EJ251, EJ252, EJ253 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated), EJ255 (2.5L Turbocharged - XT models)

Configuration:

Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder

Common Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Hp Na:

Approx. 165-175 hp (Naturally Aspirated)

Hp Turbo:

Approx. 210-230 hp (Turbocharged XT models)

Torque Na:

Approx. 166-175 lb-ft (Naturally Aspirated)

Torque Turbo:

Approx. 235-250 lb-ft (Turbocharged XT models)

Induction:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

ECU:

Subaru Engine Control Unit (ECU) / Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free antifreeze/coolant (50/50 mix)

Oil Type Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions), SAE 10W-30 also acceptable

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) with Electronic Control

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most trims), Variable Transfer Clutch (VTC) for automatic, Viscous Coupling Center Differential for manual

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or Dexron III/Mercon compatible (check specific manual for exact spec)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (check specific manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 3.4 quarts (3.2 liters) for a drain and fill

Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 1.9 quarts (1.8 liters)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Length:

Approx. 177.0 inches (4496 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.5 inches (190 mm)

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 31.1 cubic feet (behind rear seats), 65.7 cubic feet (with rear seats folded)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3200-3500 lbs (1450-1590 kg) depending on trim and drivetrain

Towing Capacity:

Approx. 1500 lbs (680 kg) (check local regulations and specific model)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 100 mm

Standard Tire Size:

215/60R16 (may vary by trim and year)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4/5 Stars (for models tested)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models tested)

AWD:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Available on some models/trims

Airbags:

Dual Frontal Airbags (standard), Optional Side Airbags on later models

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player with 4-6 speakers. Optional premium audio on higher trims.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on later models.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most models.

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically equipped from the factory; aftermarket solutions often required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months (severe conditions), 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (normal conditions)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum/iridium plugs (check specific engine)

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months

Timing Belt Replacement:

NOT APPLICABLE (all engines in this range use a timing chain)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible

Head Gaskets:

Premature failure of head gaskets on EJ251/EJ252/EJ253 engines (especially 1999-2002 models) is a common concern. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Rear Main Seal:

Oil leaks from the rear main crankshaft seal can occur, particularly on manual transmission vehicles.

Wheel Bearings:

Front wheel bearings can wear out prematurely. The manual covers diagnostic and replacement steps.

Evap System:

Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system leaks are sometimes reported, often indicated by a Check Engine Light.

Automatic Transmission:

Older 4EAT transmissions can develop issues if not properly maintained; fluid changes are crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Specialty:

All-Wheel Drive expertise, Boxer engine technology, rally racing heritage

Generation 1 Sf:

1997-2002: Introduced as a compact SUV/wagon with a focus on practicality and AWD. Available with 2.5L naturally aspirated engines.

Generation 2 Sg:

2003-2008: Redesigned with a more conventional SUV look. Introduced the turbocharged XT model. Updated styling and interior.

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Plant, Japan

Global Sales:

Strong sales in North America, Japan, Australia, and Europe, establishing Subaru's SUV credentials.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

SUV Of The Year:

The Subaru Forester has often been praised for its blend of car-like handling and SUV utility, though specific 'SUV of the Year' awards may vary by publication and year.

Safety Awards:

Generally well-regarded for safety, often earning 'Good' ratings from IIHS and decent NHTSA scores for its era.