Positioning:
The 2004 Subaru Forester represented a second-generation model, building upon the success of its predecessor by offering a blend of SUV utility, car-like handling, and Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, and Nissan Xterra.
Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, boxer engine, elevated ride height, comfortable interior, good visibility, practical cargo space.
Coverage:
All repair procedures, maintenance, diagnostics, electrical systems, bodywork, troubleshooting, specifications.
Page Count:
Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, turbocharger (if applicable).
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive system (Symmetrical AWD), differentials, driveshafts, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, discs, pads, lines).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, climate control, infotainment.
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, sunroof, seats, safety restraints.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections/replacement.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance values, engine timing data, dimensional tolerances.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Type:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2498 cc)
Horsepower Na:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm (EJ251/EJ253)
Torque Na:
Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (EJ251/EJ253)
Horsepower Turbo:
Approx. 210 hp @ 5600 rpm (EJ255 - XT models)
Torque Turbo:
Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm (EJ255 - XT models)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (91+ recommended for turbocharged models)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first (critical maintenance item for interference engines).
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all models)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP or equivalent (check manual for exact type)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific Subaru fluid)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
5-star (driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
4-star (front and rear passengers)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
E Brake Force Distribution:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Front airbags, available side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD audio system. Higher trims may feature premium audio systems with more speakers and a subwoofer.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed GPS navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Traction Control:
Available traction control system on some models.
Auxiliary Input:
Likely no standard auxiliary audio input on base models; aftermarket solutions or specific radio units may exist.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions) with synthetic oil. Check manual for specifics.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or at 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or at 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified (synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent OAT type coolant, pre-diluted 50/50.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF.
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent in the 2.5L naturally aspirated engines of this generation compared to earlier models, head gasket leaks can still occur, especially with the EJ25 SOHC and DOHC engines.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be prone to premature wear and noise.
Cv Axle Boots:
Torn CV axle boots can lead to grease leakage and eventual joint failure.
Catalytic Converter:
Over time, the catalytic converter can become clogged or fail, affecting engine performance and emissions.
Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history rooted in aviation and has become renowned for its commitment to safety, durability, and its distinctive Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Generation:
Second Generation (2003-2008). The 2004 model falls into this generation, representing an update from the first generation with revised styling, a larger interior, and improved features.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan.
Safet Award Consumer Reports:
Subaru vehicles, including the Forester, have historically received high marks from consumer organizations for safety and reliability.
Model Reputation:
The Forester has built a reputation for being a practical, capable, and safe all-weather vehicle, particularly favored by those who live in areas with challenging driving conditions.
