🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2005

Generation:

Second Generation (SG)

Chassis Code:

SG5

Engine Codes:

EJ25 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2005 Subaru Forester, part of the second generation (SG), continued Subaru's tradition of offering a versatile all-wheel-drive compact SUV/crossover, known for its practicality, capability, and distinct driving characteristics.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Mazda Tribute. Its key differentiators were standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed boxer engines, and a more rugged, car-like driving experience compared to truck-based SUVs.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, available naturally aspirated or turbocharged Boxer engines, increased cargo space and refined interior over previous generation, available power sunroof, and available premium audio systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, and accessories.

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (comprehensive software)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (digital, likely searchable PDF or proprietary viewer)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU/ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Power Transfer Unit (PTU), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (AWD), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS), Climate Control System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays), Body & Interior, Safety Systems (Airbags), HVAC, Emissions Control.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, component removal and installation, repair procedures, overhaul instructions, technical specifications, torque values, wiring harness repair, component testing, system calibration, body panel alignment, interior trim removal.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical troubleshooting with full wiring diagrams, body repair procedures, and diagnostic codes.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software or high-resolution searchable PDF.

Print Quality:

N/A (digital format)

Binding Type:

N/A (digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.5L (2457cc) DOHC 16-valve Flat-4 (EJ25)

Horsepower Na:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm (Naturally Aspirated)

Torque Na:

170 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (Naturally Aspirated)

Horsepower Turbo:

210 hp @ 5600 rpm (Turbocharged - XT models)

Torque Turbo:

235 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (Turbocharged - XT models)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Engine Management:

Subaru Engine Control Module (ECM)

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.3:1 (NA) / 8.4:1 (Turbo)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (with electronic control)

Transmission AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active Torque Split AWD with Automatic, Viscous Coupling AWD with Manual)

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil

Differential Fluid Type:

GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.5 inches

Width:

69.7 inches

Height:

63.0 inches

Wheelbase:

103.1 inches

Ground Clearance:

7.9 inches

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

31.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:

63.0 cubic feet

Curb Weight Base:

3131 lbs

Curb Weight Xt:

3337 lbs

Towing Capacity:

2400 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4/5 stars

IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good

Active Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS - on some models/trims), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC - optional on some models).

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags (optional), three-point seatbelts for all occupants, LATCH child seat anchors, energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Base models featured a standard AM/FM/CD stereo. Higher trims offered an in-dash CD changer, premium speaker systems (e.g., McIntosh audio on some XT models), and optional navigation systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, ABS, EBD, optional traction and stability control.

Connectivity Features:

Standard auxiliary input for audio devices (on some later models of this generation), power outlets.

Lighting Options:

Halogen headlights, available fog lights, rear fog lights (market dependent).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Iridium spark plugs: 100,000 miles.

Timing Belt Replacement:

105,000 miles or 7 years (interference engine).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API Service SG or higher)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Genuine Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Known Issues:

Head gasket leaks (especially on EJ25 engines), front strut mounting issues, potential for front sway bar link wear, catalytic converter failure (less common than later models), oil leaks from valve covers and oil pan.

Preventative Maintenance Focus:

Crucial to monitor and address head gasket health, timely timing belt replacement due to interference engine design, and regular fluid checks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing reliable and capable vehicles, with a strong emphasis on all-wheel-drive technology and boxer engines, stemming from its aviation roots.

Model Evolution:

The 2005 Forester represents the second generation (SG), which debuted for the 2003 model year. It featured a significant redesign with a more car-like appearance, improved aerodynamics, a longer wheelbase, and enhanced interior comfort and amenities compared to the first generation.

Production Years:

Second Generation (SG): 2002-2008

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The 2005 Subaru Forester was frequently praised for its standard AWD system and practicality, often receiving positive mentions in 'best family car' or 'best SUV for winter driving' lists.

Kbb Rating 2005:

Good resale value rating for its class.

Certifications:

Generally met or exceeded all relevant US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).