🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Generation:

First Generation (SF)

Model Years Covered:

1999, 2000

Chassis Code:

SF5, SF9

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Usp:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most trims), boxer engine, practicality, go-anywhere capability.

Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail (North America), Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute.

AWD Standard:

Yes (typically all models/trims)

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer)

Body Style:

5-door SUV

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Factory Service / Repair / Workshop Manual

Specific Systems:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Interior, Emissions

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific model/engine, but typically 1000+ pages for a complete factory manual.

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF (delivered in Zip archive)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of EJ25 SOHC and DOHC naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines. Includes cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, lubrication system (oil pump, pan), cooling system, fuel system (injectors, pump, filter), ignition system (coils, plugs), and emissions control.

Transmission:

Service and repair for 4-speed automatic (4EAT) and 5-speed manual transmissions. Includes disassembly, inspection, reassembly, hydraulic control systems, clutch system (manual), drivetrain components (axles, differentials, driveshafts).

Brakes:

Diagnosis and repair of hydraulic braking systems, including ABS. Covers brake pads, rotors, calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars), wheel alignment procedures, power steering system (pump, rack and pinion).

Electrical Electronics:

Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis of starting and charging system, lighting, wipers, HVAC controls, power accessories, sensors, engine control unit (ECU) troubleshooting.

Body Interior:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system service (blower motor, evaporator, heater core), body hardware (hinges, latches).

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, evaporative emission control system (EVAP).

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, oxygen sensors.

Climate Control:

Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core, blower motor, climate controls.

Lighting Systems:

Headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, interior lighting, fog lights (if equipped), wiring and relays.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements (engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, tire rotation, brake pad replacement, battery maintenance.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagram interpretation, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meaning.

Repair Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for virtually all vehicle systems. Includes engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for complete engine disassembly, inspection, machining, and reassembly.

Transmission Rebuild:

Step-by-step guides for overhauling both manual and automatic transmissions.

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.

Body Panel Replacement:

Instructions for removing and installing body panels, doors, fenders, hood, tailgate.

Electrical Component Replacement:

Guidance on replacing starters, alternators, ignition coils, sensors, ECUs, etc.

Depth:

Factory-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed specifications, torque values, diagnostic procedures, and internal component repairs.

Component Identification:

Detailed diagrams and part identification for all major components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Extensive charts for diagnosing issues based on symptoms.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Quality:

Factory quality, high-resolution images and diagrams.

Binding:

Digital Download (PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital)

Zoom In Out:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Displacement:

EJ251 (2.5L SOHC NA), EJ25D (2.5L DOHC NA - early), EJ20G/EJ205 (2.0L DOHC Turbo - JDM/specific markets)

Horsepower Na:

Approximately 165-170 hp for 2.5L NA engines.

Torque Na:

Approximately 162-166 lb-ft for 2.5L NA engines.

Horsepower Turbo:

Approximately 210-220 hp for 2.0L Turbo engines (GT models).

Injection:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating may vary by region and engine variant, consult manual for specific recommendations).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant. Specific Subaru recommendations are crucial. Often Subaru Blue or green silicate-free coolant.

🔧 Transmission

Type Manual:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Type Automatic:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) with Lock-up Torque Converter

Drivetrain AWD:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Genuine ATF HP or equivalent DEXRON III-H/MERCON compatible fluid (verify with manual for exact specification).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (verify with manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 175.5 inches (4458 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63.8 inches (1620 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 102.4 inches (2600 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100-3300 lbs (1406-1497 kg), depending on configuration.

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 30.3 cu ft (behind rear seats), expandable with seats folded.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver:

4 Stars (1999 model)

NHTSA Front Passenger:

4 Stars (1999 model)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (1999 model)

ABS:

Available on certain trims/options

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Airbags standard

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory CD player or cassette player with AM/FM radio. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.

Traction Control:

Not commonly found on these models. ABS was an option.

Aux Input:

Rarely standard; aftermarket solutions often required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult the manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Oil Filter:

Subaru part numbers for oil filters commonly include 15208AA031, 15208AA080 (check manual for exact fitment).

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Subaru part numbers typically include 16546AA030, 16546AA050.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on plug type (copper, platinum, iridium). Consult manual for specific plug type and gap. Common NGK part numbers include BKR6E-11.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for EJ series engines. Typically recommended every 60,000-105,000 miles or 5-7 years. Subaru part numbers for timing belt kits often include 13028AA202, 13028AA190. Failure to replace can lead to catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 2.5L engines. Verify with manual.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

Typically 5W-30 or 10W-30. Consult manual for exact recommendation based on climate. Synthetic oils are recommended.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.8 quarts (6.4 liters). Verify with manual.

Head Gaskets:

While not as prevalent as in later generations with the EJ253, some early EJ25 engines (especially DOHC versions) could experience head gasket failures. The manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures.

Crankshaft Thrust Bearing:

A known issue for some EJ25 engines, particularly those with automatic transmissions. The manual details inspection and potential repair strategies.

E Grinding Noise:

Some owners report a 'grinding' noise from the front differential or viscous coupling unit, especially during tight turns. The manual offers diagnostic steps for the AWD system.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets are common wear items that can develop leaks. The manual provides detailed procedures for their replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Specialty:

Subaru is renowned for its Boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, often associated with rally racing and outdoor lifestyles.

First Generation Debut:

1995 (Japan), 1997 (North America). This manual covers the final years of the first generation.

Styling Changes 1999:

Minor facelift for 1999, including revised front and rear styling, updated interior features, and potentially new wheel designs.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver તિહાસ:

Often featured on Car and Driver's Ten Best lists in its category for its practicality and AWD capability.

Edmunds User Reviews:

Generally well-regarded for its reliability, utility, and AWD performance by owners.