🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2009

Generation:

Third Generation (SH)

Chassis Code:

SH

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2009 Subaru Forester (SH generation) occupies the compact SUV/crossover segment, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive, practicality, and Subaru's reputation for reliability and all-weather capability. It competes against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Ford Escape.

Competitive Analysis:

The Forester distinguished itself with its standard AWD system, offering superior traction in adverse conditions compared to many front-wheel-drive biased competitors. Its wagon-like profile provided excellent cargo space and a lower center of gravity than some taller SUVs. The availability of the turbocharged XT model offered a performance variant often missing in its class.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engine configuration, Raised ground clearance for light off-roading, Spacious interior and cargo area, Optional turbocharged engine (XT models), Safety features including Subaru's Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain (AWD), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Brakes, Suspension, Steering, HVAC, Electrical System, Body & Chassis, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Emissions Control, Diagnostic Procedures, Bodywork, Interior Trim, Safety Systems (SRS Airbags, ABS), Wiring Diagrams, Specifications, Torque Values, Troubleshooting Guides.

Page Count:

Thousands (estimated from typical comprehensive service manuals)

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download - PDF/Proprietary Format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ253), 2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255 - XT models), Engine Mechanical, Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel Injection, Ignition, Emissions Control (EVAP, EGR, Catalytic Converter), Engine Performance Diagnostics.

Transmission Drivetrain Systems:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (TY757), 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT - TV1B3), Active All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System, Differential Service, Clutch System (Manual), Torque Converter Service (Automatic).

Chassis Suspension Brakes:

Front MacPherson Strut Suspension, Rear Multi-Link Suspension, Power Assisted Rack and Pinion Steering, Hydraulic Disc Brakes (Front and Rear), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Brake Fluid Flush Procedures, Parking Brake System.

Electrical HVAC:

12V Electrical System, Battery, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System (Starter Motor), Lighting Systems (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), Power Windows, Power Locks, Remote Keyless Entry, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) System, Refrigerant Handling, Blower Motor, Climate Control Unit, Radio/Audio System, Instrument Cluster, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and other Control Modules.

General Maintenance:

Oil and Filter Changes, Air Filter Replacement, Cabin Air Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush and Fill, Brake Fluid Flush, Transmission Fluid Change (Auto & Manual), Differential Fluid Change, Power Steering Fluid Flush, Wiper Blade Replacement, Battery Terminal Cleaning.

Engine Repair Rebuild:

Timing Belt Replacement (if applicable, though EJ253 is chain-driven), Head Gasket Replacement, Piston and Ring Service, Valve Adjustment, Cylinder Head Removal and Installation, Engine Mount Replacement, Turbocharger Service (XT models), Fuel Injector Replacement, Fuel Pump Replacement.

Transmission Drivetrain Repair:

Manual Transmission Gearbox Overhaul, Automatic Transmission Overhaul, Clutch Replacement, CV Axle Replacement, Driveshaft Service, Differential Rebuild, AWD System Component Replacement.

Suspension Steering Brakes Repair:

Shock Absorber/Strut Replacement, Coil Spring Replacement, Control Arm Bushing Replacement, Ball Joint Replacement, Tie Rod End Replacement, Wheel Bearing Replacement, Power Steering Pump Replacement, Brake Caliper Rebuild/Replacement, ABS Sensor Replacement, Master Cylinder Replacement.

Electrical Diagnostic Repair:

Troubleshooting Electrical Faults using wiring diagrams, Sensor Diagnostics (MAF, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position), ECU Reprogramming/Replacement, Alternator Testing and Replacement, Starter Motor Testing and Replacement, Power Window/Lock Actuator Replacement, SRS System Diagnosis and Component Replacement.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, component locations, and troubleshooting trees for most systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (Likely a self-extracting archive or a dedicated viewer application with embedded PDF data)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format, but content is printable page-by-page)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L (2457cc) DOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (EJ253), 2.5L (2457cc) DOHC Turbocharged Flat-4 (EJ255 - XT models)

Naturally Aspirated Horsepower:

170 hp @ 5,800 rpm (EJ253)

Naturally Aspirated Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (EJ253)

Turbocharged Horsepower:

224 hp @ 5,200 rpm (EJ255 - XT models)

Turbocharged Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm (EJ255 - XT models)

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane (Regular Unleaded) for Naturally Aspirated, 91 Octane (Premium Unleaded) for Turbocharged (XT models)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (Model TY757)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Model TV1B3)

Drivetrain Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

AWD System Type:

Variable Front/Rear Torque Distribution (awd system depends on transmission type: Manual AWD uses viscous coupling center differential; Automatic AWD uses electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.9 inches (4570 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

65.4 inches (1660 mm) (without roof rails)

Wheelbase:

103.0 inches (2615 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.1 inches (206 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

35.7 cu ft (1011 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

73.6 cu ft (2084 liters)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 3,350 lbs (1519 kg)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 3,400 lbs (1542 kg)

Curb Weight Xt Automatic:

Approx. 3,500 lbs (1588 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Rear Passenger:

5 Stars

IIHS Roof Strength:

Good

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Passive Safety Features:

Front Airbags (Driver and Passenger), Side Curtain Airbags, Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags, Active Head Restraints, Three-Point Seatbelts with Pretensioners, LATCH System for child seats, Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary input. Optional premium audio systems available, some with SiriusXM satellite radio and Bluetooth connectivity on higher trims or as optional packages. Navigation systems were also optional.

Driver Assistance Features:

Standard features include ABS, VSC, and TCS. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and pre-collision braking systems were not commonly available on this model year, focusing more on fundamental safety and AWD capability.

Connectivity Options:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB/iPod connectivity integrated into some premium audio units. Power outlets and auxiliary audio jacks are standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months for severe driving, or 7,500 miles or 12 months for normal driving (check owner's manual for specific conditions).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approximately 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (Iridium recommended).

Coolant Replacement Interval:

Initial change at 60,000 miles or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years thereafter.

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Recommended every 30,000 miles for severe duty, or 60,000 miles for normal duty. Check fluid condition.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Recommended every 30,000 miles for severe duty, or 60,000 miles for normal duty.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 or 0W-30 Synthetic (check specific viscosity recommendation for climate and engine type).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter for 2.5L.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON compatible fluid.

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-5).

Differential Fluid Type:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-5).

Common Issues:

Head Gasket Leaks (though less common in this generation than earlier EJ engines), Oil Leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket), Premature Wheel Bearing Wear, Catalytic Converter Failure, Condensation in Headlights, Rear Hatch Strut Failure, Automatic Transmission Shudder (on older units with service history).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, the automotive division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a history dating back to 1953. The brand is renowned for its boxer engines, All-Wheel Drive systems, and a strong reputation for reliability and safety, particularly in rally racing heritage.

Forester Generation Sh:

The 2009 Forester represents the third generation (SH), a significant redesign from the previous SG generation. It adopted a more conventional SUV-like styling with a longer wheelbase, wider track, and increased interior space. This generation also introduced the Subaru BOXER Diesel engine in some markets (though not typically covered in US market manuals).

Production Period:

2009 Model Year (part of the SH generation, 2008-2013)

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan (Gunma Plant), Taiwan (Tawian Fuji Heavy Industries), and previously in Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) in the United States (though US-market SH models are primarily Japanese built).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

The 2009 Subaru Forester was recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

Kbb Consumer Rating:

Generally high consumer ratings for reliability, practicality, and AWD performance.

Emissions Standards:

Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model year.