🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2005

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (SG)

Chassis Code:

SG

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, those seeking AWD capability in a practical package

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail (Rogue), Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5

Standard AWD:

Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system as standard on all trims

Ground Clearance:

Higher than average ground clearance for its class, enhancing off-road capability

Horizontally Opposed Engine:

Horizontally-opposed ('boxer') engine design for a lower center of gravity

Practicality Versatility:

Spacious interior, ample cargo room, folding rear seats for utility

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive mechanical and electrical repair and maintenance

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for a full service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), Print-on-Demand

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

2.5L EJ25 SOHC & DOHC variants, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged (XT) models, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions control

Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (TY754), 4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT, TZ1A), including AWD system (Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive) operation and maintenance

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), parking brake system

Suspension:

Front independent MacPherson struts, rear independent multi-link suspension, steering system (power steering)

Electrical:

12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, mirrors, audio system, HVAC controls, instrument cluster, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) / airbags

Body:

Exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, body sealing

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, climate control

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common fault finding and troubleshooting procedures

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, timing belt replacement (if applicable to specific engine variant), transmission overhaul/replacement, brake caliper/rotor/pad replacement, suspension component replacement (struts, control arms, bushings)

Electrical Repairs:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, sensor diagnosis, starter/alternator testing, fuse/relay identification and replacement

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and HVAC malfunctions

Component Removal Installation:

Detailed instructions for removing and installing major and minor components across all vehicle systems

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for fasteners, clearance measurements, diagnostic data values

Depth Level:

Detailed technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics, covering diagnostics, repair, and component overhaul

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Searchable text, hyperlinked sections, printable pages, high-resolution diagrams

Print Quality Description:

Clear, legible text and high-resolution, detailed diagrams and illustrations

Binding Type Description:

If printed: Spiral-bound for lay-flat use, durable cover

Paper Type Description:

If printed: Heavy-duty, gloss-coated paper for durability in workshop environments

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Na:

EJ251 (2.5L SOHC NA)

Engine Code Turbo:

EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbocharged - Forester XT)

Horsepower Na:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)

Torque Na:

166 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approx.)

Horsepower Turbo:

210 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx. for XT models)

Torque Turbo:

235 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx. for XT models)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, 91 octane recommended for XT)

Cylinder Configuration:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual (TY754)

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed automatic with OD (TZ1A)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate clutch (automatic)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil API GL-5 75W-90 or equivalent

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid (check specific owner's manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.7 inches (4565 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

65.9 inches (1675 mm) (typical)

Wheelbase:

103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.1 inches (206 mm)

Curb Weight Manual:

3344 lbs (1517 kg) (approx.)

Curb Weight Automatic:

3439 lbs (1560 kg) (approx.)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

30.0 cubic feet (approx.)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

63.0 cubic feet (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5-Star

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5-Star

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

5-Star

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

4-Star

IIHS Frontal Offset Score:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Score:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Available Electronic Stability Control (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, available side curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seat belts

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio with subwoofer, optional in-dash CD changer

Display:

Digital clock and trip computer display in dashboard

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available remote keyless entry system

All Weather Capability:

Enhanced by standard Symmetrical AWD and higher ground clearance

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service) - check owner's manual for exact recommendation

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or annually

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., iridium)

Timing Belt Replacement:

NA (EJ25 engines in this generation use a timing chain, not a belt, which is generally maintenance-free, but the chain tensioners and guides may require inspection)

Engine Oil Capacity With Filter:

4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) for EJ25 SOHC/DOHC NA models (check specific engine)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30, API SN/SM/SL certified (check owner's manual for exact specification and viscosity for your climate)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life antifreeze/coolant

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible

Head Gaskets:

While less common than in earlier generations, some EJ25 engines can still experience head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Catalytic Converter:

Can become inefficient over time, leading to check engine lights and reduced performance. Manual covers diagnosis.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ25 engines may exhibit higher than normal oil consumption, particularly with age. Manual covers diagnostics for blow-by and piston ring issues.

Automatic Transmission Behavior:

Occasional reports of hesitant shifting or transmission fluid issues. Manual provides troubleshooting for the 4EAT system.

Rear Differential Pinion Seal:

Leakage can occur at the rear differential pinion seal. Manual details replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Philosophy:

Known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, boxer engines, and reputation for durability and capability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

First Generation:

Introduced in 1997, based on the Subaru Impreza platform, initially offered as a compact wagon/SUV.

Second Generation Sg Introduction:

Launched in late 2002 for the 2003 model year, featuring a completely redesigned body and platform, increased size and capability. The 2005 model falls within this second generation.

Third Generation Sh Introduction:

Introduced for the 2008 model year, featuring a more car-like platform (based on the Impreza) and a different design direction.

Manufacturing Plant:

Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Consistently awarded 'Top Safety Pick' by IIHS during its generation due to strong crash test performance.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally received good reliability ratings from publications like Consumer Reports, praised for its AWD system and practicality.

Emissions Compliance:

Meets prevailing emissions standards for the model year.