Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV (C-Segment)
Key Differentiators:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), boxer engine layout, excellent visibility, practical cargo space, reputation for durability and safety.
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra
Powertrain Features:
Horizontally-opposed (boxer) engines provide a lower center of gravity for improved handling. Standard AWD enhances traction in various conditions.
Utility Features:
Raised ground clearance compared to sedans, versatile interior with fold-flat rear seats, optional roof rails for additional cargo capacity.
Covered Years:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Estimated Page Count:
Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, exhaust, engine management (ECM), ignition, starter, charging system
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system (DCCD on select models), differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, hubs
Chassis:
Suspension (front struts, rear multi-link), steering system, brake system (ABS, front disc, rear disc/drum), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instrumentation, HVAC controls, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations
Body And Interior:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seating, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts)
Maintenance Tasks:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, battery maintenance
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), on-board diagnostics (OBD-II), system checks, component testing
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, dimensional data
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid services and component replacement to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic trees and component-level repair instructions.
Engine Code And Displacement:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated), EJ205 (2.0L DOHC turbocharged - for specific markets/GT/STI trims not typically in standard US Forester of this era)
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1 (for 2.5L SOHC)
Horsepower:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm (for 2.5L SOHC)
Torque:
Approx. 175 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for 2.5L SOHC)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded (for naturally aspirated 2.5L)
ECU Type:
Subaru Engine Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostics
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (TY75x series)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
AWD System Type:
Full-time Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential (manual trans), Active All-Wheel Drive (electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch) for automatic trans. DCCD (Driver Controlled Center Differential) optional on specific performance models/years.
Manual Trans Fluid:
Subaru Extra MT Fluid (GL-5 75W-90) or equivalent
Automatic Trans Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (Dexron III compatible equivalent)
Length:
Approx. 4,505 mm (177.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,735 mm (68.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,590 mm (62.6 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,630 mm (103.5 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 195 mm (7.7 in)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 1,020 L (36 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 1,930 L (68 cu ft)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,430 kg - 1,550 kg (3,150 lbs - 3,420 lbs) depending on configuration
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for early models, later models may vary)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for models equipped with optional side airbags and pretensioners)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags. Optional side-impact airbags available on select trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants. LATCH child seat anchor system.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM/CD player with 4 or 6 speakers. Higher trims may have premium audio options.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed GPS navigation system available on some higher trim levels late in the model run.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Keyless Entry:
Optional keyless entry and remote start systems.
OBD Ii:
Fully compliant with OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) standards for emissions and engine management diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (under severe conditions), or 7,500 miles or 6 months (under normal conditions). Refer to manual for specific driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK Platinum or Iridium recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years. Crucial for boxer engines as they are typically non-interference.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter change (for 2.5L SOHC).
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 or 10W-30 API Certified.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in later generations, early Subaru boxer engines can be susceptible to head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Leaking valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets are common as vehicles age. Manual will cover proper torque and sealant application for replacement.
Catalytic Converter:
Early models may experience catalytic converter issues due to age and mileage. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
AWD Component Wear:
Rear differential seals and front CV boots can wear over time, especially with off-road use. Manual covers inspection and replacement.
Subaru Identity:
Subaru has a long history of producing vehicles with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and boxer engines, emphasizing durability, safety, and capability, particularly in adverse weather.
Forester Origins:
The Forester was introduced in 1997 as Subaru's first compact crossover SUV, blending the ride height and capability of an SUV with the driving dynamics and fuel economy of a car. It was built on the Impreza platform.
Generation Differences:
This generation (SF) saw the introduction of the 2.5L engine option, increased wheelbase and interior space compared to the first generation globally. Subsequent revisions (e.g., 2003 refresh) would mark the beginning of the SG generation.
Manufacturing Plant:
Ota City, Gunma, Japan
Production Years Covered:
1998-2004 (covering the latter half of the SF generation and introduction of some MY updates for North America)
