🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Model Years Covered:

2014, 2015, 2016

Chassis Codes:

SJ

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking reliable all-wheel-drive capability and practicality.

Key Competitors:

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

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system across most trims.

Horizontally Opposed Engine:

Unique Boxer engine layout for lower center of gravity and improved balance.

Practicality And Space:

Generous cargo volume, comfortable seating, and good visibility.

Safety Systems:

Availability of Subaru's EyeSight driver assistance technology.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Spare parts catalog for DIY repairs and part number verification.

Secondary Coverage:

Component illustrations, part pricing, and labor information.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies significantly by specific trim and option packages. Typically several hundred pages.

Type:

Parts Catalog / Parts List

Language:

English

Format:

Searchable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Drivetrain:

Engine components (blocks, pistons, valves, timing systems), fuel system (injectors, pumps, lines), cooling system, exhaust system, transmission components (automatic and manual), differentials, driveshafts, CV joints.

Chassis And Suspension:

Suspension components (struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings), steering system components (rack and pinion, power steering pump), braking system components (discs, calipers, pads, lines, ABS components), wheel bearings, hubs.

Electrical And Electronics:

Wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, lighting components (headlights, taillights), sensors (engine, ABS, O2), starter, alternator, battery components, infotainment system components, power window/lock mechanisms.

Body And Interior:

Body panels (doors, fenders, hood, trunk), bumpers, grilles, glass, trim pieces, interior panels, seating components, airbags, seat belts, climate control system components (HVAC unit, actuators, condensers), dashboard components.

Part Identification:

Locating and verifying correct part numbers using detailed illustrations and descriptions.

Pricing And Labor:

Provides part prices and estimated labor times for various repair and replacement procedures.

Depth:

Detailed component breakdowns and part number identification for all major systems. Suitable for DIY mechanics and professional parts advisors. Does not provide repair procedures but aids in sourcing the correct parts for them.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content.

Bookmark Functionality:

Linked bookmarks for easy navigation.

Printability:

Printable pages for physical reference.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Base:

FB25

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated 2.5L Flat-4 (Boxer)

Displacement:

2498 cc

Bore X Stroke:

94.0 mm x 90.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower Base:

170 hp @ 5,800 rpm

Torque Base:

174 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Code Optional:

FA20DIT (for XT models)

Engine Type Optional:

Turbocharged 2.0L Flat-4 (Boxer)

Horsepower Optional:

250 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque Optional:

258 lb-ft @ 2,000-4,800 rpm

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Base:

Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

Transmission Type Optional:

6-Speed Manual (typically for 2.5i Premium and Limited trims, rare)

Cvt Features:

Includes manual mode with paddle shifters, simulated gear steps.

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Active Torque Split (for CVT models).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

181.3 inches

Width:

70.5 inches

Height:

63.9 inches

Wheelbase:

103.9 inches

Ground Clearance:

8.7 inches

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

34.5 cu ft

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

70.9 cu ft

Curb Weight Base:

approx. 3,400 lbs

Towing Capacity:

1,500 lbs (unbraked/braked trailer)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star (for 2014-2016 models)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick Plus (depending on specific year and equipment)

Eye Sight Driver Assist:

Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Sway Warning. (Optional on most trims)

Vcs:

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control System (TCS).

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.

Airbags:

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

Seat Belts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH system for child seats.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Base:

Subaru STARLINK multimedia system with touchscreen (sizes vary by trim level, typically 6.2-inch or 7-inch).

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling, USB ports, auxiliary audio input. Higher trims may include HD Radio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and Pandora/iHeartRadio integration.

Eye Sight Features:

As described in Safety section: Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Sway Warning.

Blind Spot Monitoring:

Available on higher trims (often part of EyeSight or optional packages).

Rear Cross Traffic Alert:

Available on higher trims.

Smartphone Integration:

Limited integration (no Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on early 2014 models; may be present on later 2015/2016 models depending on refresh/updates, but generally not a standard feature for this generation).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first). Check owner's manual for severe driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

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

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles; replace as needed, typically every 15,000-30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Iridium spark plugs: typically 60,000 miles for naturally aspirated, 30,000 miles for turbocharged.

Transmission Fluid Service:

CVT fluid inspection is crucial. Service interval varies; refer to manual or Subaru recommendations. Some sources suggest flushing/replacement around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on usage.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

0W-20 (Synthetic)

Engine Oil Capacity:

approx. 5.1 quarts (5.0 L) for 2.5L NA engine; approx. 5.6 quarts (5.3 L) for 2.0L Turbo engine.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life antifreeze/coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru CVT Fluid (NS-2 or equivalent)

Oil Consumption:

Some owners report higher-than-average oil consumption, especially with higher mileage naturally aspirated engines. Regular checks are recommended.

Cv Axle Boots:

Front CV axle boots can be susceptible to tearing, leading to grease leakage and potential damage.

Cvt Hesitation Or Roughness:

Occasional reports of CVT behavior changes. Regular fluid maintenance is key.

Brake Wear:

Front brakes may wear faster than expected on some models, particularly with spirited driving or heavy use.

Radiator Leaks:

Rarely, radiators or associated hoses can develop leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Identity:

Subaru, part of Fuji Heavy Industries (now Subaru Corporation), is known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, horizontally opposed engines, and rally racing heritage.

Forester Introduction:

First introduced in 1997, the Forester was designed as a crossover between a station wagon and an SUV.

Fourth Generation:

The 2014-2018 model range represents the fourth generation (SJ) of the Subaru Forester, launched for the 2014 model year. It featured a redesigned exterior, improved interior, and updated powertrains. A mid-cycle refresh occurred for the 2017 model year.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing location for North American models is Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. (SIA) in Lafayette, Indiana.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Awards:

Consistent recognition as a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for its robust safety structure and available safety technologies.

Kbb Awards:

Often cited by Kelley Blue Book (KBB) for its resale value and family-friendliness.

AWD Performance:

Praised for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, offering superior traction and stability in various weather conditions compared to many front-wheel-drive competitors.