🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2013

Generation:

Fourth Generation (SJ Series)

Chassis Code:

SJ

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Key Selling Points:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard), practical cargo space, good visibility, comfortable ride, strong safety reputation.

Key Competitors:

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

Distinctive Features:

Standard AWD, Boxer engine layout contributing to a lower center of gravity, excellent outward visibility, X-Mode (on higher trims) for enhanced off-road capability.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair, Specifications, Wiring Diagrams

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific number may vary based on print configuration)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, Engine control systems (ECU), Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Transmission (automatic and manual), Drivetrain (AWD system, differentials)

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Brake system (ABS, EBD, VDC), Wheels and tires

Electrical:

Body electrical systems, Power accessories, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC system, SRS (Airbag) system, Audio system, Navigation system, CAN bus communication

Body:

Exterior body panels, Interior trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Roof systems

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, Fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection/replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, Component testing procedures

Repair:

Engine component removal and installation (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper/rotor replacement, Electrical component repair/replacement, Body panel repair

Special Procedures:

Wheel alignment, Airbag system servicing, Climate control system servicing, AWD system component servicing, Turbocharger (if applicable) servicing

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete component overhaul and diagnostics.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic strategies, wiring diagrams for electrical tracing, and component resistance/voltage specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable for quick information retrieval

Printability:

High-resolution, allowing for clear printing of individual pages or the entire manual.

Digital Binding:

N/A (digital format)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

FB25

Configuration:

2.5-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, Naturally Aspirated Boxer (Horizontally Opposed) 4-cylinder

Horsepower:

170 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque:

174 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm

Induction:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)

ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) with integrated transmission control (ECM/TCM)

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, Oxygen sensors, Evaporative emission control (EVAP) system

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (available on select trims, less common)

Cvt Features:

Paddle shifters (on some trims), simulated gear shifts for sportier feel, Hill Start Assist

Cvt Fluid Type:

Subaru CVT Fluid (e.g., K0521Y0000 or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Gear Oil API GL-5 75W-90 (specific part number may vary)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

180.9 inches (4595 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

68.7 inches (1745 mm) with roof rails

Wheelbase:

103.9 inches (2640 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.7 inches (221 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

34.5 cubic feet (977 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

74.7 cubic feet (2115 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg) depending on trim and equipment.

Towing Capacity:

1,000 lbs (454 kg) (unbraked trailer), 2,400 lbs (1089 kg) (braked trailer, check local regulations and specific model configurations)

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for models equipped with optional EyeSight driver-assist technology)

NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:

5-Star (for 2013 model year, can vary slightly based on specific testing)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard)

Stability Control:

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS)

Braking Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (front and rear), driver knee airbag

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Available touch-screen infotainment system with AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio, Bluetooth connectivity (audio streaming and hands-free calling), USB and auxiliary input jacks.

Navigation:

Optional voice-activated GPS navigation system.

Eyesight System:

Optional Subaru EyeSight suite includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Lane Departure and Sway Warning.

Rear View Camera:

Standard on most trims, or available as an option.

X Mode:

Available feature that optimizes engine output, transmission ratios, AWD torque split, and braking for enhanced performance on slippery surfaces and steep inclines.

Smartphone Integration:

Bluetooth for audio streaming and phone calls. No native Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for this model year.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Iridium type: 100,000 miles (160,000 km)

Coolant Replacement:

Initial: 11 years or 132,000 miles (210,000 km). Subsequent: Every 5 years or 60,000 miles (96,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 API SN, SM, SL, or SJ certified synthetic engine oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent. Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3

Common Complaints:

CVT judder/hesitation (often related to fluid maintenance), oil consumption in some high-mileage engines, potential for worn front sway bar links causing clunking noises.

Maintenance Recommendations:

Regularly inspect and maintain CVT fluid, check for oil consumption, and listen for suspension noises.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Origin:

Japan

Core Philosophy:

Emphasis on All-Wheel Drive technology, horizontally opposed ('Boxer') engines, and safety.

Forester Introduction:

First generation introduced in 1997.

Generation Introduction:

The 2013 model year marked the debut of the fourth generation (SJ series), a significant redesign from the previous SH generation.

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan (Ota, Gunma Prefecture) and United States (Lafayette, Indiana).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Award History:

The 2013 Forester typically achieved high safety ratings, with 'Top Safety Pick' designation often awarded, particularly for models equipped with EyeSight.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally rated well for reliability and owner satisfaction, though specific model year ratings can fluctuate. Known for its practicality and AWD capability.

Fuel Economy Certification:

EPA estimated MPG figures for the 2013 Forester typically range from 22-24 MPG city and 27-32 MPG highway, depending on transmission and engine configuration.