🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

SG Series

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Key Selling Points:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practical cargo space, good visibility, reliable Boxer engines.

Direct Competitors:

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

Distinctive Features:

Subaru's signature Boxer engine layout, Symmetrical AWD, comfortable ride, excellent visibility.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service and Repair

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Comprehensive Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and specifications for EJ253 (2.5L SOHC) and EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbo).

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, EVAP system diagnostics and repair.

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition timing, coil-on-plug system analysis.

Cooling System:

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan operation, coolant specifications, pressure testing.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust manifold, O2 sensors, emissions control components.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox removal, disassembly, inspection, assembly, and troubleshooting.

Transmission Automatic:

AT control system, torque converter, valve body, hydraulic circuits, fluid specifications, diagnostics.

Drivetrain AWD:

All-Wheel Drive system operation, viscous coupling, center differential, rear differential, axle shafts, driveshafts.

Steering:

Power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering column, troubleshooting steering assist issues.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting system, horn, power windows, locks, mirrors.

Body And Frame:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, chassis frame inspection, rust repair.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant, cabin filter replacement.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belts, SRS component diagnostics and replacement.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

OBD-II codes, diagnostic flowcharts, circuit diagrams, common fault finding.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks, belt inspection.

Engine Repair:

Head gasket replacement, piston and ring service, valve adjustments, timing belt/chain replacement (if applicable).

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, transmission overhaul, solenoid testing and replacement.

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper overhaul, ABS sensor replacement.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Strut replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump replacement.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse and relay identification, sensor testing.

Body And Interior Repair:

Door panel removal, interior trim replacement, minor body panel repair.

HVAC Repair:

A/C system recharging, heater core replacement, blower motor replacement.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.

Detail Level:

Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and procedures.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information relevant for using scan tools and multimeters for diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for easy navigation and keyword finding.

Quality:

High-resolution scanned images and text for clear readability.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ253

Engine Type 1:

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (Boxer)

Displacement 1:

2457 cc (149.9 cu in)

Bore X Stroke 1:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm (3.92 in x 3.11 in)

Compression Ratio 1:

9.7:1

Horsepower 1:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 1:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Code 2:

EJ255

Engine Type 2:

2.5L DOHC Turbocharged Flat-4 (Boxer)

Displacement 2:

2457 cc (149.9 cu in)

Horsepower 2:

210 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 2:

235 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

0-60 Mph Est:

7.1 - 8.5 seconds (depending on engine and transmission)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

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

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type 2:

4-Speed Automatic (4EAT)

AWD System:

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

Gear Ratios Manual:

Specific ratios available in manual, typically around 3.45:1 for 1st gear.

Gear Ratios Automatic:

Specific ratios available in automatic, typically around 2.78:1 for 1st gear.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.5 in (4560 mm)

Width:

70.1 in (1780 mm)

Height:

64.8 in (1645 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.1 in (2619 mm)

Ground Clearance:

7.7 in (196 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 97.7 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 27.9 cu ft

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 63.0 cu ft

Curb Weight Est:

3200 - 3500 lbs (1450 - 1590 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4500 - 4600 lbs

Towing Capacity:

2400 lbs (1090 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Crash Test Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

4 Stars

IIHS Head Restraints And Seats:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Available Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, available side curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters in all seating positions.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems with multiple speakers. Aux input may be present on higher trims or aftermarket.

Display:

Basic digital clock and radio display. No advanced touchscreens or navigation on standard models.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Limited Driver Assistance:

No advanced electronic driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist found on modern vehicles.

Bluetooth:

Not standard. May be available as an option or aftermarket installation.

Usb Ports:

Not standard. Typically requires aftermarket modification.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, under severe driving conditions; every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months under normal conditions (refer to manual for specifics).

Engine Oil Filter:

Replace at every oil change.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or sooner if dirty.

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect annually, replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 15,000-24,000 miles (24,000-38,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard platinum plugs; iridium plugs may have longer intervals (refer to manual).

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years, then every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) or 4 years thereafter.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Replace fluid and filter every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on driving conditions. Consult manual.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace if necessary or at higher mileages per manual recommendation.

Differential Fluid Front Rear:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed or per manual recommendations.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30, API certified. Check manual for specific viscosity and API service category recommendations. (e.g., API SN or newer)

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-OAT formulation. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification).

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III equivalent (check manual for compatibility).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Genuine ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent. Avoid generic ATF fluids.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

SAE 75W-90, API GL-5 gear oil. Check manual for specific Subaru recommendations.

Rear Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-90, API GL-5 gear oil. Check manual for specific Subaru recommendations.

Head Gaskets:

While not as prevalent as in earlier generations, some EJ25 engines can still experience head gasket leaks, particularly if overheated or poorly maintained.

Catalytic Converter:

Can degrade over time, leading to reduced performance and check engine lights. O2 sensor failure also common.

Suspension Components:

Wear items like struts, bushings, and ball joints can require replacement due to mileage and road conditions.

Automatic Transmission:

Some models may experience occasional hard shifts or delays, often related to valve body issues or fluid degradation. Regular fluid changes are crucial.

Wheel Bearings:

Front wheel bearings can sometimes wear out, causing humming or grinding noises.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing robust and capable vehicles, particularly known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines.

First Generation:

1997-2002

Second Generation:

2003-2008 (SG Series)

2005 Update:

The 2005 model year falls within the second generation, which saw a significant redesign from the first generation, offering a more refined interior and exterior, and an optional turbocharged engine (XT model).

Manufacturing Locations:

Gunma Plant, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Year Award 1:

2005 Subaru Forester - Named a 'Best Buy' by Consumers Digest.

Year Award 2:

2005 Subaru Forester - Consistently received good safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Generally well-regarded for reliability and practicality, though some powertrain components may require diligent maintenance.