🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002

Chassis Codes:

SF (1999-2002)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover

Key Selling Points:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practical cargo space, good visibility, comfortable ride.

Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Mazda Tribute.

All Wheel Drive:

Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive was standard across all trims, enhancing traction and stability.

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed ('boxer') engine, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling.

Interior Versatility:

Spacious interior for its class with foldable rear seats for expanded cargo capacity.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (specifications may vary slightly by region, but core mechanical and electrical information is universal)

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Instant Download PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder heads, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing systems (belt/chain), lubrication system, cooling system.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP).

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition timing, crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, oxygen sensors (O2 sensors).

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox assembly, shift mechanisms, gears, bearings, seals, maintenance and repair procedures.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, valve body, hydraulic controls, transmission fluid, maintenance and repair procedures.

Drivetrain AWD:

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, center differential, rear differential, drive shafts, CV joints, hubs.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, sway bar), rear suspension (multi-link, struts, sway bar), wheel bearings, steering knuckle.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack/gearbox, power steering pump, fluid, column, tie rods, alignment.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, brake pads, brake rotors, brake lines, master cylinder, ABS system (Antilock Braking System), parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting systems, horn.

Engine Control System:

ECU (Engine Control Unit), sensors (MAP, TPS, MAF, O2, Coolant Temp), actuators, emissions control systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Climate Control:

HVAC system, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant system, controls.

Body Interior:

Interior trim panels, seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpets.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, mirrors, weather stripping.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.

Engine Repair:

Engine overhauls, head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, valve adjustments, timing belt/chain replacement, oil pump replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, transmission rebuilds (manual and automatic), seal replacements, torque converter replacement.

Drivetrain Service:

CV joint replacement, drive shaft repair, differential fluid changes.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Strut replacement, control arm replacement, ball joint replacement, power steering pump replacement, steering rack rebuild.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake line flushing and replacement, caliper rebuilding, ABS system troubleshooting.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, wiring harness repair, starter and alternator testing.

Climate Control Service:

A/C system recharge, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), heater core replacement.

Bodywork And Trim Repair:

Panel replacement, door handle repair, window regulator replacement, interior trim panel installation.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting.

Diagnostic Procedures:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) code retrieval and interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing.

Depth:

Comprehensive (covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)

Detail Level:

Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, diagrams, and illustrations.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical systems, including wiring diagrams and component testing.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text (allows for quick finding of specific topics)

Print Readability:

High-resolution scans ensuring clear text and images for printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

EJ251/EJ253 (2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 Boxer)

Displacement:

2457 cc (2.5 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Horsepower:

165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (typical for EJ251/EJ253)

Torque:

166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (typical for EJ251/EJ253)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system

Oil Capacity:

4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 (API SG or higher)

Engine Control Unit:

ECU (Engine Control Unit) with OBD-II diagnostics

🔧 Transmission

Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (with lock-up torque converter)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard with both transmission types)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 175.0 inches (4445 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.9 inches (1725 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.0 inches (2616 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.5 inches (190 mm)

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 32.1 cubic feet (909 liters)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 67.5 cubic feet (1911 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3150 - 3350 lbs (1429 - 1519 kg), varies by trim and transmission

Towing Capacity:

2,400 lbs (1,089 kg) with appropriate equipment

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Standard Tire Size:

215/60R16 (typical)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4/5 stars (driver/passenger) for 1999-2002 models

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models tested, though specific year testing varies)

ABS:

Standard (4-wheel ABS with EBD - Electronic Brake-force Distribution)

Airbags:

Front airbags (driver and passenger) standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front pretensioners.

Body Structure:

Reinforced body structure, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base models typically featured AM/FM radio with CD player or cassette tape. Higher trims offered improved audio systems with more speakers.

Display:

Simple dashboard-mounted display for audio and climate controls.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Auxiliary Input:

Rarely available on this generation; aftermarket solutions are common.

Immobilizer:

Immobilizer system for anti-theft purposes.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (under severe driving conditions), or 7,500 miles or 6 months (under normal conditions) - check owner's manual for specifics.

Engine Oil Filter:

Replace at every oil change. Subaru Part Number: 15208AA080 (or equivalent).

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Subaru Part Number: 16546AA070 (or equivalent).

Spark Plugs:

Replace approximately every 60,000 miles. Use NGK or Denso Iridium plugs for optimal performance. Subaru Part Number: 22401AA610 (or equivalent for Iridium).

Timing Belt:

Crucial: Replace every 90,000 to 105,000 miles or 7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Recommended kit includes belt, tensioner, idlers, and water pump. Subaru Part Number (Kit example): 13028AA109.

Coolant Flush:

Replace coolant every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF.

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than in later EJ25 engines, head gasket leaks (coolant into oil or combustion chambers) can occur. This manual provides detailed procedures for replacement.

Crankshaft Position Sensor:

Failure can lead to no-start or stalling conditions. The manual covers its location and testing.

Automatic Transmission Shifting:

Some models might experience rough shifting; fluid changes and solenoid inspection/replacement are often remedies covered in the manual.

Cv Axle Boots:

Torn CV axle boots can lead to joint failure. The manual details replacement procedures.

Radiator Leaks:

Plastic end tanks can degrade and leak over time. The manual provides instructions for replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Identity:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, is known for its horizontally-opposed boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems.

First Generation Sf:

The first generation Forester (SF chassis) debuted in late 1997 for the 1998 model year in Japan, and 1998 for the 1999 model year in North America. It was positioned as a 'Subaru all-wheel drive sport utility wagon'.

Sf Updates:

The 1999-2002 models represent the initial U.S. market introduction and early iterations of the first-generation Forester. Minor styling updates and feature additions occurred during this period, but the core platform remained consistent.

Production Location:

Japan (primarily Gunma Plant)

Production Period:

1997-2002 (for first generation SF chassis)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports:

Generally received good ratings for reliability and performance for its class during its production run.

Car And Driver:

Often praised for its all-weather capability and practical utility.

Safety Certifications:

Met all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) applicable in North America.