Positioning:
The Subaru Forester 2005, part of the second generation (SG), cemented Subaru's reputation for versatile, all-wheel-drive capable SUVs that blend practicality with light off-road prowess.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail (Rogue), and Ford Escape.
Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, available turbocharged engines, raised ground clearance, comfortable ride, and practical interior space.
Value Proposition:
This comprehensive 3780+ page PDF manual provides DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians with the in-depth information required for accurate diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of the 2005 Subaru Forester, saving time and money.
Instant Download:
Instant PDF download eliminates shipping costs and delays, allowing immediate access to critical service information.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for all engine variants (Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged).
Transmission:
Repair and servicing of both Automatic (4-speed) and Manual (5-speed) transmissions.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system diagnosis, repair, differential servicing, and driveshaft maintenance.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system diagnosis, power steering pump and rack repair.
Brakes:
ABS system, hydraulic circuits, brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuses, relays, charging system, starting system, lighting, power accessories.
Body Exterior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, bumper removal and installation, exterior trim.
Body Interior:
Dashboard removal, seat mechanisms, upholstery, interior trim panels, climate control system.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, blower motor, evaporator and condenser servicing.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter replacement, fuel tank servicing, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipe replacement.
Cooling System:
Radiator, hoses, thermostat, water pump, coolant flush and fill procedures.
Emission Control:
Diagnosis and repair of emission-related components, including O2 sensors and EGR systems.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair across all major vehicle systems.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including torque specifications and clearances.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II code interpretation, sensor testing, actuating component diagnosis.
Specifications Data:
Torque values, tightening sequences, fluid capacities, and critical measurements.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Naturally Aspirated:
2.5L EJ253 SOHC (165 hp @ 5600 rpm, 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm)
Turbocharged:
2.5L EJ255 DOHC Turbo (210 hp @ 5600 rpm, 235 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm - XT models)
Layout:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder
Injection:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition System (DEI) with coil-on-plug on some turbo variants.
Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system
Type:
Forced lubrication with wet sump
Wheelbase:
2625 mm (103.3 in)
Length:
4485 mm (176.6 in)
Height:
1670 mm (65.7 in) (Standard Roof), 1720 mm (67.7 in) (with Roof Rails)
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 33.7 cu ft (rear seats up), 67.7 cu ft (rear seats folded)
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 1470 kg (3240 lbs) (2.5i manual)
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 1580 kg (3485 lbs) (2.5XT automatic)
Towing Capacity:
2400 lbs (1088 kg) with factory-installed hitch and trailer wiring.
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5 Stars (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5 Stars (2005 Model Year)
IIHS Offset Frontal:
Good (2005 Model Year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability:
Available Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on some models/trims.
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Available front side-impact airbags and front and rear side-curtain airbags (on higher trims).
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, 3-point rear seat belts.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with up to 6 speakers. Options for premium audio and in-dash CD changer.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on some trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Aux Input:
N/A (Auxiliary input ports were not standard on this model year).
Features:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and engine temperature. Multi-function display for odometer, trip meters, and warning lights.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions), or 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions). Refer to manual for detailed schedule.
Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Cabin Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on type (refer to manual).
Timing Belt:
Non-interference engine design, but typically recommended replacement every 90,000-105,000 miles or 7 years. (Consult manual for specific engine).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SG, SH, SJ, or SL certified (synthetic blend recommended for turbo models). Check manual for exact specs.
Coolant:
Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 gear oil (API GL-5).
Differential Fluid:
SAE 80W-90 gear oil (API GL-5).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent in the SG generation compared to earlier models, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly on naturally aspirated EJ25 engines. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Turbo Charger Xt:
Turbocharger oil feed line failures can lead to turbo damage. Regular oil changes and monitoring oil pressure are crucial. Manual covers turbo diagnostics.
Rear Main Seal:
Rear main engine seal leaks can develop over time, requiring transmission removal for replacement. Manual provides the procedure.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings and sway bar links are common wear items, impacting ride quality and handling. Manual guides replacement.
Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long-standing reputation for building durable, capable vehicles, particularly known for its boxer engines and All-Wheel Drive systems.
Generation Details:
The 2005 Forester is part of the second generation (SG), introduced for the 2003 model year. It featured updated styling, a wider track, revised suspension, and the introduction of the turbocharged XT model, significantly enhancing performance.
Production Years:
Second Generation: 2003-2008
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Gunma, Japan.