🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2007

Market Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Type:

Compact crossover SUV, known for its all-wheel-drive capability and practicality.

Target Audience:

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals seeking a reliable and capable vehicle for varied conditions.

Key Competitors 2007:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape.

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD) is a hallmark feature, providing excellent traction and stability.

Practicality:

Spacious interior, good cargo capacity, and versatile seating arrangements.

Durability Reliability:

Reputation for robust engineering and long-term reliability, particularly with the boxer engine and AWD system.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system (belts/chains), lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EGR), turbocharger (if applicable).

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (MT) and automatic transmission (AT) repair, clutch system, transfer case, all-wheel drive (AWD) system, drive shafts, differentials.

Brakes:

Brake system components, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, power booster, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), parking brake.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, springs, control arms), power steering system, steering rack, wheel alignment.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights), interior and exterior lighting, wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, relays.

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats, chassis frame, rust prevention, corrosion protection.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant, climate control operation, blower motor, evaporator, condenser.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, occupant protection, safety restraint system.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for various systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault codes and their meanings.

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostics:

Information on using diagnostic tools (OBD-II scanners), interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and performing specific system tests.

Specifications Tolerances:

Torque specifications for fasteners, clearances, wear limits, and critical measurement points for accurate repairs.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams, component locations, and connector pinouts.

Level Of Detail:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Typically text-searchable, allowing for quick keyword lookup.

Printability:

Designed to be printable for users who prefer physical copies.

Binding For Physical Copy:

Not applicable for digital download, but factory originals are typically bound with comb or perfect binding.

Paper Type For Physical Copy:

Not applicable for digital download, but factory originals use durable, high-quality paper stock.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ253

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Boxer (Flat-Four)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower:

173 hp @ 5,800 rpm

Torque:

166 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Emission Controls:

California emissions standards compliant (may vary by region), includes catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EGR.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (5MT)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD) with Active Torque Split (ATS) for automatic, and Viscous Center Differential (VCD) for manual.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) for optimal shift points.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,505 mm (177.4 in)

Width:

1,780 mm (70.1 in)

Height:

1,670 mm (65.7 in) (without roof rails)

Wheelbase:

2,630 mm (103.5 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 200 mm (7.9 in)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 31.1 cu ft (881 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 63.1 cu ft (1,787 L)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,520 kg (3,350 lbs) for automatic transmission models

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 2,000 kg (4,400 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

5 Stars (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

5 Stars (Front and Rear Seat Occupants)

IIHS Front Crashworthiness:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Available Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on some trims/packages.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, and front and rear side-curtain airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, three-point rear seat belts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in rear seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional premium audio systems and in-dash 6-disc CD changers were available.

Navigation:

Optional in-dash GPS navigation system was available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Rear View Camera:

Not available as a factory option for this model year.

Auxiliary Input:

Optional auxiliary audio input jack was sometimes integrated into higher trim audio systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (severe driving conditions) or 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving conditions). Refer to manual for specific details.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 30 months, or sooner if driving in dusty conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 15 months, or sooner if air flow is reduced.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (for iridium-tipped spark plugs).

Timing Belt Replacement:

This model uses a timing belt. Replacement interval is typically 105,000 miles or 7 years. The manual will provide precise guidance.

Engine Oil Type Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30, API SG or higher (or ILSAC GF-3 or higher).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or Dexron III compatible fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Subaru Extra S or equivalent GL-5, 75W-90 gear oil.

Differential Fluid Front Rear:

Subaru Gear Oil (API GL-5) or equivalent SAE 75W-90.

Head Gasket Leaks:

While less prevalent than in earlier generations, early signs of coolant loss or oil in coolant can indicate potential head gasket issues, especially on higher mileage vehicles. The manual provides diagnostic procedures.

Wheel Bearing Wear:

Front wheel bearings can wear over time, leading to humming or grinding noises. The manual details bearing replacement procedures.

Cv Axle Boots:

Torn CV axle boots can lead to premature wear of the joints. The manual covers CV axle inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Brand Philosophy:

Focus on Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally-opposed (boxer) engines, safety, and durability.

Forester Generation Second Gen:

The 2007 Forester is part of the second generation (SG) of the Subaru Forester, produced from 2002 to 2008. It received a significant facelift in 2005.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Subaru's primary manufacturing base).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

While specific 'Top Safety Pick' designations may not have been standardized in the same way as today, the Forester consistently received good ratings for safety from IIHS and NHTSA.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Generally rated as average to above-average in reliability by organizations like Consumer Reports during this period, though some model years/engine variants could have specific issues highlighted.