Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Selling Points:
Standard AWD, excellent visibility, practical cargo space, good safety ratings
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5
Powertrain:
Horizontally-opposed Boxer engines, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Design Philosophy:
Utility, all-weather capability, driver engagement
Primary Coverage:
Complete service and repair for 2011 Subaru Forester
Engine Coverage:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ253), 2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255)
Transmission Coverage:
5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic (4EAT)
Drivetrain Coverage:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive System
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 2500+
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Content Focus:
Repair, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Wiring Diagrams
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication, cooling systems
Engine Management:
ECM, fuel injection, ignition system, emission control systems, sensors, actuators
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox, drive shafts, differentials
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control, TCM
Drivetrain:
Front differential, rear differential, center differential, viscous coupling (AWD components)
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS, EBD, parking brake, caliper, rotor, pad replacement
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, bushings, wheel bearings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, alignment
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, horn, wipers, power accessories
Body Interior:
Door panels, dashboard, seats, headliner, exterior trim, glass replacement
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, tailgate, body panel alignment
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, heater core, blower motor
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, SRS components, seat belts
Diagnostics:
OBD-II codes, diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage, troubleshooting flowcharts
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush
Repair:
Component removal and installation, internal engine repairs, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic symptom analysis, fault code interpretation, systematic problem solving
Adjustments:
Valve clearance adjustment (NA engines), parking brake adjustment, wheel alignment procedures
Specifications:
Torque specifications, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system schematics for all major circuits
Depth:
Full mechanical and electrical repair, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics including sensor data interpretation and component testing
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 Stars
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Vsc:
Standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
TCS:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front, side-curtain, and front-seat side airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners
Latch Anchors:
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system in rear seats
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe conditions), 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal conditions)
Recommended Oil Type Na:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (API SN or ILSAC GF-5)
Recommended Oil Type Turbo:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SN or ILSAC GF-5)
Oil Filter Part Number:
Subaru Part # 15208AA100 or aftermarket equivalent
Service Intervals Filters
Engine Air Filter Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) (Part # K0661Y0000) - 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap)
Spark Plug Replacement Na:
Every 60,000 miles (NA Engine)
Spark Plug Replacement Turbo:
Every 30,000 miles (Turbo Engine - Special Spark Plugs)
Timing Belt Interval:
Not Applicable (uses timing chain)
Differential Fluid Interval:
Front/Rear: Every 30,000 miles (under severe conditions)
Common Complaints:
Head gasket leaks (less common on EJ253 than older generations, but still a possibility), oil consumption, automatic transmission shifting issues, starter motor failure, wheel bearing wear.
Head Gasket Repair:
Detailed procedures for diagnosing and replacing head gaskets.