🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2014

Generation:

Fourth Generation (SJ Series)

Chassis Code:

SJ Series

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Compact Crossover SUV known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practicality, safety, and engaging driving dynamics.

Competitive Analysis:

Competes with vehicles such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, and Ford Escape. Differentiates with standard AWD and Subaru's Boxer engine configuration.

Key Features Vehicle:

Standard Symmetrical AWD, spacious interior, excellent visibility, advanced safety features (EyeSight Driver Assist Technology on select trims), comfortable ride, reliable powertrain.

Key Features Manual:

Provides detailed, step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic procedures, and factory specifications, enabling comprehensive maintenance and repair by both professional technicians and skilled DIY enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Chassis, Electrical, HVAC, Body, Safety Systems, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Maintenance, Repair Procedures

Page Count:

Comprehensive (exact page count not specified but implied to be extensive)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual (Dealership Level)

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

2.5L FB25D Naturally Aspirated Boxer, 2.0L FA20DIT Turbocharged Boxer (including timing belt/chain, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, turbocharger system)

Transmission Systems:

Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), 6-speed Manual Transmission (including control units, torque converter, gears, clutch, fluid specifications)

Drivetrain Systems:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front and rear differentials, drive axles, prop shaft, viscous coupling unit, electronic control systems

Suspension And Steering:

Front MacPherson struts, rear double wishbone, power steering system (electric power steering - EPS), wheel alignment specifications, suspension components

Brake Systems:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), brake fluid specifications, hydraulic system, parking brake

Electrical Systems:

12V battery system, alternator, starter, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, door locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, fuses and relays, wiring diagrams

Climate Control HVAC:

Air conditioning system (refrigerant type, service procedures), heater, ventilation, blower motor, controls, cabin air filter replacement

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, structural components, corrosion protection

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, child seat anchors (ISOFIX), crash sensor locations, control module diagnostics

Infotainment And Electronics:

Audio system, navigation system, backup camera, Bluetooth connectivity, instrument cluster, warning lights, ECU (Engine Control Unit), TCM (Transmission Control Module), ABS/VDC module

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), tire rotation, brake inspection

Repair Procedures:

Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), transmission removal and installation, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms), exhaust system repair, body panel repair and replacement, HVAC component repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) code retrieval and interpretation, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting flowcharts, sensor testing, actuator testing, multimeter usage

Wiring And Electrical Troubleshooting:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all major systems, circuit testing, connector identification, troubleshooting electrical faults

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, wheels)

Technical Depth:

Full overhaul and rebuild procedures, advanced diagnostics, component-level troubleshooting, electrical system analysis, factory-level repair information

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, clear, and readable text and diagrams suitable for printing

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L FB25D Naturally Aspirated DOHC BOXER 4-Cylinder; 2.0L FA20DIT DOHC BOXER 4-Cylinder Turbocharged

Horsepower 2.5L Na:

170 hp @ 5,800 rpm

Torque 2.5L Na:

174 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm

Horsepower 2.0L Turbo:

250 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque 2.0L Turbo:

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

Fuel Delivery System:

Electronic Port Fuel Injection (NA); Direct Injection and Port Injection (Turbocharged)

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum for NA; 91 octane recommended for Turbo)

Ignition Type:

Coil-on-plug, Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system

Oil Type Spec:

SAE 0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil (meeting Subaru specifications)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

Optional Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission (available on select trims)

Cv Modes:

Simulated gear shifts, manual mode with paddle shifters on some trims

6Mt Gear Ratios:

Provided in manual (specific ratios vary by model variant)

AWD Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active Torque Split AWD for CVT, Direct AWD for Manual)

Cvt Fluid Type:

Subaru CVT Fluid (e.g., K0515N1000 or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90 GL-5 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

4595 mm (180.9 in)

Width Mm:

1795 mm (70.7 in)

Height Mm:

1695 mm (66.7 in) (with roof rails)

Wheelbase Mm:

2640 mm (103.9 in)

Ground Clearance Mm:

220 mm (8.7 in)

Cargo Volume Liters:

974 liters (34.4 cu ft) behind rear seats

Cargo Volume Seats Folded Liters:

1932 liters (68.3 cu ft) with rear seats folded

Curb Weight Kg:

Approximately 1470 kg - 1580 kg (3240 lbs - 3480 lbs) depending on configuration

Wheel Size:

17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels

Tire Size:

225/60R17 or 225/55R18

Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Top Safety Pick designation by IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) for many configurations and model years in this generation.

NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:

5-Star Overall Safety Rating by NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for many configurations.

Active Safety Features:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Driver Assistance Options:

Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist - available on select trims)

Passive Safety Features:

Advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags, driver's knee airbag, front seatbelt pretensioners, whiplash-protection front seats, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Standard:

Subaru STARLINK infotainment system with 6.2-inch or 7-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, USB port, auxiliary input, Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming.

Infotainment System Optional:

Upgraded STARLINK system with navigation, higher resolution screen, Aha, Pandora, iHeartRadio integration, SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

Driver Assistance Packages:

EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite (available), Blind-Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth, USB connectivity, steering wheel mounted audio and phone controls, available smartphone integration (via STARLINK app).

Other Technology:

Keyless entry and push-button start, multi-function display in instrument cluster, auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change Interval:

Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or 12 months/12,000 miles under severe conditions with synthetic oil as per some owner's manuals; consult manual for specifics).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L:

Approximately every 105,000 miles (iridium type).

Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L Turbo:

Approximately every 60,000 miles (iridium type).

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first.

Coolant Flush Interval:

First at 138,000 miles, then every 75,000 miles thereafter (Subaru Super Coolant).

Cvt Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (recommended for longevity and performance, consult manual).

Differential Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (front and rear differentials).

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue)

Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:

Approx. 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L Turbo:

Approx. 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) with filter

Cv Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 4.7-5.3 quarts (4.4-5.0 liters) for initial fill (service fill may be less).

Common Wear Items:

Brake pads and rotors, front sway bar links, tires, cabin air filter, engine air filter.

Cv T Concerns:

While generally reliable, early CVT fluid changes are often recommended by enthusiasts and mechanics to maximize longevity. Some users have reported premature failure, though this is not universal.

Turbo Engine Considerations:

The 2.0L turbo engine requires consistent maintenance, especially regarding oil quality and timely changes to prevent potential issues with turbocharger longevity. Carbon buildup can also be a concern with direct injection engines.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history of producing vehicles with horizontally opposed ('Boxer') engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, emphasizing durability, safety, and all-weather capability.

Forester Evolution:

The Forester was first introduced in 1997 as a compact crossover SUV. The fourth generation (SJ series) launched for the 2014 model year, featuring a significantly redesigned exterior and interior, updated powertrains, and the introduction of the EyeSight system.

Production Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

The 2014 Subaru Forester consistently received accolades for safety, including IIHS Top Safety Pick designations and favorable NHTSA ratings. It was also recognized for its practicality and standard AWD.