Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking AWD capability and practicality.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer engine configuration, strong safety reputation, excellent visibility.
Standard AWD:
Core Subaru feature providing enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
Visibility:
Large glass area and relatively upright design contribute to excellent outward visibility.
Practicality:
Spacious interior, ample cargo volume, and comfortable ride for daily use and long trips.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, component removal/installation for naturally aspirated and turbocharged Boxer engines (FB25, FA20DIT).
Transmission:
Coverage for Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and 6-speed manual transmission, including fluid changes, diagnostics, and repair.
Drivetrain:
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differential service, driveshaft, axle repairs.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, wheel bearing replacement, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Disc brake systems (front and rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, alignment procedures.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, power distribution, starter, alternator, battery service, lighting systems, power accessories.
Climate Control:
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, heater core service.
Body And Exterior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, exterior trim, bumpers, paint repair guidance.
Body And Interior:
Interior trim panels, seating systems, dashboard removal, airbag system components (with safety precautions).
Safety Systems:
SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components and diagnostics, seat belt mechanisms, EyeSight driver assistance system (if equipped and covered in the specific manual edition).
Maintenance:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, and belt inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code definitions (OBD-II), electrical circuit testing procedures.
Repair:
Comprehensive repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, and brake caliper service.
Calibration And Adjustment:
Procedures for system calibration, such as throttle body relearn, ABS sensor calibration, and wheel alignment verification.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance procedures.
Depth Level:
In-depth, covering complete vehicle disassembly, repair, and reassembly from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools Support:
Information designed to be used in conjunction with Subaru-specific diagnostic scan tools (like Subaru Select Monitor) or advanced generic OBD-II scanners.
Naturally Aspirated Engine:
2.5L FB25 DOHC Boxer 4-cylinder
Turbocharged Engine:
2.0L FA20DIT DOHC Direct-Injection Turbocharged Boxer 4-cylinder (XT models)
2.5L Horsepower:
170 hp @ 5,800 rpm
2.5L Torque:
174 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm
2.0Xt Horsepower:
250 hp @ 5,600 rpm
2.0Xt Torque:
258 lb-ft @ 2,000-4,800 rpm
Fuel Delivery 2.5L:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Delivery 2.0Xt:
Direct fuel injection (DFI)
Recommended Fuel 2.5L:
87 Octane Regular Unleaded
Recommended Fuel 2.0Xt:
91 Octane Premium Unleaded
Engine Cylinder Head Material
Standard Transmission Type:
Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Optional Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (MT) - Typically available on base or sport-oriented trims.
Cvts Features:
Includes manual shift mode with paddle shifters on some trims (e.g., 2.0XT) for a more engaging driving experience. AWD system integration.
Cvt Fluid Type:
Subaru CVTF (Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid) - Specific part number should be verified in the manual (e.g., K0515J0001 or equivalent).
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent.
Length:
Approximately 180.0 inches
Width:
Approximately 70.5 inches
Height:
Approximately 66.1 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 103.9 inches
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 101.9 cu ft
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approximately 34.4 cu ft
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approximately 70.9 cu ft
Curb Weight 2.5I:
Approximately 3,370 - 3,530 lbs (depending on trim and transmission)
Curb Weight 2.0Xt:
Approximately 3,530 - 3,680 lbs (depending on trim)
Towing Capacity:
2,700 lbs
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 100 mm
Standard Wheel Size:
17-inch alloy (2.5i), 18-inch alloy (2.0XT)
Standard Tire Size:
225/60R17 (2.5i), 225/55R18 (2.0XT)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2014 Subaru Forester was awarded an IIHS Top Safety Pick.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
NHTSA awarded the 2014 Forester a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating (check specific model year for exact configurations).
Active Safety Features:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Driver Assistance Options:
Available EyeSight driver assistance technology (includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure Warning) on higher trims.
Passive Safety Features:
Front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags. Whiplash-protection front seats.
Infotainment System Base:
Standard infotainment system typically includes a 6.2-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/CD stereo, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB/iPod integration.
Infotainment System Optional:
Optional upgrades include a 7-inch touchscreen with Subaru Starlink multimedia, HD Radio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and navigation. (Features varied by trim).
Eye Sight Availability:
Subaru's EyeSight suite was an optional safety feature on Touring and Limited trims, offering advanced driver assistance functionalities.
Rear View Camera:
Standard on most trims, or available as an option.
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming, USB port for media playback and device charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, or based on Subaru's Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) system monitoring (refer to manual for exact conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Fb25:
Iridium spark plugs typically last up to 105,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change Cvt:
Recommended at 30,000-60,000 miles depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal). Consult the manual.
Coolant Replacement:
Subaru Super Coolant - Initial change at 138,000 miles, then every 75,000 miles.
Engine Oil Capacity:
2.5L: 5.1 US quarts (with filter), 2.0XT: 5.1 US quarts (with filter).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
0W-20 Synthetic Recommended for both engines.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Oil Consumption Concern:
Some earlier FB25 engines experienced higher-than-average oil consumption, which Subaru addressed through service bulletins and potentially engine updates.
Cvt Reliability:
While generally reliable, proper and timely fluid changes are crucial for CVT longevity. Listen for unusual noises or hesitation.
Headlight Hazing:
Some owners report headlight lenses hazing or yellowing over time; this is a cosmetic issue usually resolved with restoration kits.
Subaru Brand Focus:
Subaru has a long history of engineering reliable vehicles with a focus on All-Wheel Drive and boxer engine technology, often appealing to outdoor and adventure-oriented consumers.
Forester Introduction:
The Forester was first introduced in 1997 as a compact SUV/station wagon hybrid.
Fourth Generation Debut:
The SJ series (2014-2018) marked the fourth generation of the Forester, significantly re-engineered from the previous generation.
Design Changes Sj Series:
The SJ generation adopted a more conventional SUV styling, increased interior space, improved fuel efficiency, and introduced the direct-injection turbocharged 2.0L engine option.
Production Location:
Mainly produced at Subaru's Gunma Assembly Plant in Japan.