Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Selling Points:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practical cargo space, good visibility, reputation for durability
Primary Competitors 2003-2004:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra
Subaru Brand Philosophy:
Focus on safety, durability, and all-weather capability through AWD
Engine Variants Covered:
2.5L EJ25 SOHC (X, XS, XS Premium), 2.5L EJ25 DOHC Turbo (XT, XT Premium)
Transmission Variants Covered:
4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual
Drivetrain Variants Covered:
All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD)
Estimated Page Count:
~2000+
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, component diagnosis, timing belt replacement, cylinder head service, oil and cooling system maintenance
Transmission:
Automatic and manual transmission repair, clutch service, torque converter diagnosis, fluid specifications and replacement
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive system maintenance, differential service, driveshaft and CV joint repair
Brakes:
ABS system diagnosis and repair, brake pad and rotor replacement, hydraulic system bleeding, parking brake adjustment
Suspension Steering:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, ball joint and tie rod end service, power steering system diagnosis and repair, wheel alignment specifications
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, ECU diagnosis, starter, alternator, battery service, lighting system repair, interior and exterior electrical component troubleshooting
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, chassis component torque specifications
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, heater core replacement, climate control module diagnosis
Fuel Emissions:
Fuel injector cleaning and replacement, EVAP system diagnosis, catalytic converter information
Maintenance:
Routine service (oil changes, filter replacements), fluid level checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair Rebuild:
Component-level repair, full engine and transmission rebuild procedures, bodywork repairs
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines for all major systems, use of Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) tool (for dealerships, but principles apply)
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full component overhaul and diagnostics
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Printability:
Printable for physical use in workshop environments
Binding Type Physical Equivalent:
Spiral or Perfect Binding (for printed version equivalent)
Paper Type Physical Equivalent:
Durable, coated paper for workshop conditions
Engine Code Naturally Aspirated:
EJ251 (2.5L SOHC)
Engine Code Turbocharged:
EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbo)
Performance Naturally Aspirated
Horsepower Ej251:
165 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque Ej251:
166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Horsepower Ej255 Xt:
210 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque Ej255 Xt:
235 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Octane Rating Naturally Aspirated:
87-89 AKI (Unleaded)
Octane Rating Turbocharged:
91+ AKI (Unleaded Premium)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
4-Speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission
AWD System:
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active Torque Split AWD with automatic transmission, Variable Transfer Clutch AWD with manual transmission)
Fluid Specification Automatic
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (Dexron III compatible alternative for older models, but HP is preferred)
Fluid Specification Manual
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (for driver and passenger)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
Standard Safety Features:
ABS, EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), Traction Control (available on some trims), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) (standard on XT, available on others)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, available front and rear side curtain airbags
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions), consult manual for specifics
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
105,000 miles (critical for EJ engines)
Engine Oil Type Naturally Aspirated:
SAE 5W-30 (API SN or newer)
Engine Oil Type Turbocharged:
SAE 5W-30 (API SN or newer, synthetic recommended)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent P-HOAT coolant
Head Gasket Leaks:
While more prevalent in earlier EJ engines, monitor for coolant loss or milky oil; later models and the XT are generally more robust but still require attention.
Timing Belt Wear:
Crucial to adhere to replacement intervals; catastrophic engine damage if belt breaks.
Catalytic Converter Issues:
Can become clogged or fail over time, especially if engine oil consumption is high.
Subaru Founding Year:
1953
Subaru Core Technologies:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer engine
Forester First Generation Debut:
1997
Forester Second Generation Debut:
2003
Major Updates 2003-2004:
Complete redesign, introduction of turbocharged XT model, increased interior space and refinement
Manufacturing Plant:
Ota City, Gunma, Japan
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Awarded for good performance in crash tests in prior years, reflecting the Forester's strong safety foundation.
Car And Driver 10Best Lists:
While specific years might vary, the Forester has been a frequent mention in enthusiast publications for its utility and AWD capability.
