🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Model Years Covered:

2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013

Chassis Code:

SH Series

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape.

SUV Strengths:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practical cargo space, good visibility, comfortable ride.

Diy Advantage:

Essential resource for DIY enthusiasts to accurately identify and source replacement parts for maintenance and repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain (AWD), Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical, HVAC, Body, Interior, Safety Restraints, Emissions

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Parts Catalog / Parts List

Language:

English

File Format:

Searchable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Components:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, intake and exhaust systems.

Drivetrain Components:

Front axle, rear axle, drive shafts, differential, transfer case, Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive components.

Transmission Components:

Automatic transmission (4-speed or 5-speed depending on engine), manual transmission (5-speed or 6-speed depending on engine), clutch system, gear selectors.

Brake Components:

Brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, master cylinder, ABS components, parking brake.

Suspension Components:

Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, sway bars, bushings, springs, wheel bearings.

Steering Components:

Steering rack, power steering pump, steering column, tie rods, ball joints.

Electrical Components:

Wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, sensors, ECUs, infotainment system wiring.

HVAC Components:

Air conditioning compressor, evaporator, condenser, heater core, blower motor, climate controls.

Body Components:

Body panels (hood, fenders, doors, quarter panels), bumpers, grille, glass, trim, weatherstripping.

Interior Components:

Seats, dashboard, center console, door panels, carpeting, headliner, interior trim pieces.

Safety Restraint Components:

Airbags (driver, passenger, side, curtain), seat belts, pretensioners.

Emissions Components:

Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR valve, EVAP system components.

Part Identification:

Component illustrations with clear numbering for part identification and verification.

Part Number Retrieval:

Direct listing of OEM part numbers for accurate ordering.

Labor Information:

Includes estimated labor times and information for common repair procedures, aiding in DIY cost estimation and professional service assessment.

Depth:

Comprehensive parts identification for nearly every component, facilitating detailed repairs and restoration projects.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Fully searchable PDF allows for quick access to specific parts by keyword or part number.

Linking:

Linked bookmarks for easy navigation between major sections and components.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-the-go reference or for creating a physical copy.

Binding Suggestion:

Ideal for digital use or printing and binding into a ring binder for durability.

Paper Type Recommendation:

For printed versions, consider durable, thicker paper stock for frequent handling.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L EJ253 Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4, 2.5L EJ255 Turbocharged Boxer-4 (GT models).

Ej253 Hp:

170 hp @ 5800 rpm

Ej253 Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Ej255 Gt Hp:

224 hp @ 5200 rpm

Ej255 Gt Torque:

226 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SMPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Variant Identification:

Crucial to identify the specific engine (e.g., EJ253 vs. EJ255 Turbo) for correct part selection.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (available on base and premium trims, typically with the NA engine).

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (available on most trims), 5-speed Automatic Transmission (available on some turbo models).

AWD System:

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system integrated with transmission.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

Dexron III/Mercon (check specific manual for exact type, some may use Subaru ATF-HP).

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.0 inches (2616 mm)

Length:

180.0 inches (4572 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1781 mm)

Height:

65.7 inches (1669 mm) (with roof rails: 66.7 inches / 1694 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.1 inches (206 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

31.4 cu ft (889 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

68.3 cu ft (1934 liters)

Curb Weight:

3300-3600 lbs (approx. depending on trim and drivetrain)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 2400 lbs (check owner's manual for specific load limits and trailer brake requirements)

Wheel Size:

16-inch (base models), 17-inch (premium/GT models)

Tire Size:

215/70R16 (16-inch wheels), 225/60R17 (17-inch wheels)

Bolt Pattern:

5x100

Center Bore:

56.1 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

5 Stars (2009-2013 models generally performed well)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Many models in this generation received IIHS Top Safety Pick awards.

Standard AWD:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced traction and stability.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Electronic Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Electronic Stability Control (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)

Airbags:

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

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters for front seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary input. Optional upgraded systems with satellite radio and Bluetooth connectivity were available on higher trims.

Navigation:

Optional GPS navigation system was available on select models.

Rearview Camera:

Optional rearview camera integrated into the infotainment display on some trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Bluetooth:

Available Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal conditions).

Engine Air Filter Interval:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).

Cabin Air Filter Interval:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Iridium spark plugs: 60,000 miles (NA engines), 30,000 miles (turbo engines).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Super Coolant: Replace at 11 years or 137,500 miles, then every 4.5 years or 55,000 miles.

Timing Belt Interval:

This generation (SH) uses a timing CHAIN, not a belt, eliminating a major maintenance item.

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 0W-20 (preferred for fuel economy and emissions) or SAE 5W-30. Check dipstick for exact type.

Coolant Spec:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent long-life ethylene glycol-based coolant.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.

Head Gasket Concern:

While less common in this generation than earlier models, early signs of coolant loss or white smoke can indicate potential head gasket seepage, especially in high-mileage turbocharged engines. The parts catalog will help identify specific gasket part numbers.

Catalytic Converter Wear:

Premature failure can occur due to engine misfires or oil consumption. The parts catalog is essential for sourcing replacement catalytic converters.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, leading to knocking noises or uneven tire wear. This catalog will provide part numbers for all suspension arms, bushings, and links.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ25 engines, particularly turbocharged ones, can exhibit oil consumption. This parts catalog aids in identifying components related to the oil control system, such as piston rings and valve stem seals.

Wheel Bearing Noise:

Front wheel bearings are a common wear item. The catalog will list individual wheel bearings and hub assemblies.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Philosophy:

Known for its horizontally-opposed ('boxer') engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems.

Third Generation:

The SH series Forester marked the third generation, introducing a more aerodynamic and car-like design compared to its predecessors.

Design Changes:

Smoother lines, larger greenhouse for better visibility, and a more refined interior.

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan (Gunma Prefecture) and Taiwan.

Production Period:

2008-2013 (for the SH generation).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Awards:

Multiple Subaru Forester models from this generation earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) 'Top Safety Pick' award, reflecting strong performance in crash tests.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally received good reliability ratings from consumer publications, though specific model years and engine types could vary.