Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Attributes:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard, boxer engine, good visibility, practical cargo space, comfortable ride.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail (Rogue in some markets), Mazda Tribute, Ford Escape.
AWD System:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (some models may have Active AWD or VDC depending on specific options).
Engine Layout:
Horizontally-opposed ('Boxer') engine for a lower center of gravity.
Target User:
Enthusiast DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Subaru owners seeking comprehensive technical data.
General Coverage:
Complete factory service and repair information for all systems and components.
Regional Applicability:
Global (based on factory service manual content, may vary slightly by market).
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (typically 1500-3000+ pages for full factory manuals, exact count not specified but described as 'Complete').
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF or similar, compatible with computer, tablet, smartphone)
Licensing Terms:
No expiry dates, unlimited use on personal devices.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for all engine components (e.g., cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts).
Engine Management:
Engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor data, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharger system (if applicable).
Transmission Manual:
Complete overhaul and repair procedures for manual transmissions.
Transmission Automatic:
Complete overhaul and repair procedures for automatic transmissions, including valve body, torque converter, and electronic controls.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, AWD system operation and repair.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Brakes:
Disc brake systems (front/rear), ABS system diagnostics and repair, parking brake, hydraulic system.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering rack/gearbox, tie rod ends.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system, lighting, horn, power windows, locks, wipers.
Climate Control:
HVAC system (heater, air conditioning), refrigerant charging, component testing.
Body Exterior:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass replacement, trim.
Body Interior:
Dashboard, seats, headliner, door panels, carpet, trim removal and installation.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics and repair, seat belts.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage, wiring diagrams.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, timing belt replacement (if applicable), spark plugs, etc.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, special tool requirements, and diagrams for all repairs.
Overhaul Rebuild:
Comprehensive procedures for engine and transmission overhauls and rebuilds.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, including component locations.
Technical Data Tables:
Tables containing specifications, capacities, clearances, and tolerances for all components.
Depth Level:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair capabilities, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Code:
EJ253 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Type:
2.5L SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) Boxer-4 Cylinder
Displacement:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower Hp:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Lb Ft:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum recommendation)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.7 Liters (6.4 US Quarts)
Spark Plugs:
NGK BKR6E-11 (Platinum) or equivalent.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.7 US Quarts) with filter change.
ECM Identification:
ECM (Engine Control Module) with specific part numbers found in manual.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (4EAT)
Transmission Type Manual:
5-speed Manual Transmission
AWD Coupling Auto:
Viscous coupling center differential with torque split (e.g., 60/40 F/R).
AWD Coupling Manual:
Viscous coupling center differential with torque split (e.g., 50/50 F/R).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP (Highly Recommended) or DEXRON-III compatible (check for updates).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 (GL-5) gear oil.
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 3.4 Liters (3.6 US Quarts) for drain and fill.
Manual Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 1.9 Liters (2.0 US Quarts).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-star (2003 model year tested)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-star (2003 model year tested)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5-star (2003 model year tested)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5-star (2003 model year tested)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
5-star (2003 model year tested)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5-star (2003 model year tested)
IIHS Front Offset G:
Good (2003 model year tested)
IIHS Side Impact G:
Good (2003 model year tested)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Vehicle Dynamics Control:
Available Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on higher trims.
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side airbags (optional on some trims).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe duty may require shorter intervals.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! The EJ253 engine uses a timing belt. Replace every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years. Failure to replace can cause catastrophic engine damage. Manual will detail replacement procedure.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check cap or manual for specific recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru All-Season Synthetic Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF Dexron-III compatible fluid.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Head Gaskets:
While the 2003-2004 models are generally better than earlier generations regarding head gasket issues, they can still occur, particularly in high-mileage vehicles. The manual will detail testing and replacement procedures.
Rear Main Seal:
Oil leaks from the rear main seal are a known potential issue over time. The manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Evaporative Emissions Control:
Canister purge valve issues may arise, leading to check engine lights. Manual will include diagnostic steps.
Brand Focus:
Subaru has a long history of producing reliable vehicles with a focus on All-Wheel Drive and horizontally-opposed engines.
First Generation:
The Forester was first introduced in 1997 in Japan, globally in 1998.
Second Generation Launch:
The second generation (SG) was launched for the 2003 model year, with a complete redesign.
Updates 2003 2004:
The 2003 model year represented a significant update from the first generation, featuring a larger body, revised styling, and updated powertrain options. Minor updates typically occur between model years.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan