🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

SF

Engine Codes:

EJ251 (2.5L SOHC), EJ253 (2.5L SOHC, some markets)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)

Target Audience:

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, those seeking all-wheel-drive capability in a versatile package

Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra (older models), Mazda Tribute

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a Subaru hallmark

Ground Clearance:

Higher ground clearance compared to many rivals, enhancing off-road capability

Practicality:

Spacious interior, versatile cargo area, good visibility

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete workshop service and repair manual

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, engine management (ECU), emissions control

Transmission:

Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch, driveline, differentials (front and rear), axles, driveshafts

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, hydraulic system, parking brake

Suspension Steering:

Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link independent suspension, steering system, power steering, wheel alignment

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, infotainment system, instrument cluster, fuses and relays

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, chassis frame, underbody protection, rust prevention

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, components

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system, seat belts

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, battery maintenance

Engine Repair:

Engine overhaul, head gasket replacement, timing belt replacement (if applicable to specific engine variant), piston and ring replacement, valve adjustment

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid change, clutch replacement, torque converter service, gearbox overhaul

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush and bleed, ABS component diagnostics

Suspension Steering Repair:

Shock absorber and strut replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack service

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting common electrical faults, sensor testing, actuator testing

Body Work:

Panel alignment, door hinge repair, glass replacement, seal replacement

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant charging, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), blower motor replacement

Depth:

Comprehensive diagnostic procedures, detailed disassembly and reassembly instructions, torque specifications, wiring schematics, troubleshooting flowcharts, special tool recommendations

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, fully searchable text, printable pages

Print Readability:

Clear text and diagrams optimized for printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Horizontally-Opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves

Horsepower:

165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Regular Unleaded Gasoline

ECU Type:

Subaru Engine Control Unit (ECU)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active Transfer Clutch AWD for Automatic, viscous center coupling for Manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

175.0 inches (4445 mm)

Width:

67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

63.2 inches (1605 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.0 inches (2615 mm)

Ground Clearance:

7.5 inches (190 mm)

Passenger Volume:

94.0 cubic feet (approx.)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

31.5 cubic feet (approx.)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

66.5 cubic feet (approx.)

Curb Weight Manual:

3,140 lbs (approx.)

Curb Weight Automatic:

3,190 lbs (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars

IIHS Head Restraints Whiplash:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available (market dependent, often integrated with AWD)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio

Display:

Basic digital clock and radio display

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Keyless Entry:

Available keyless entry system

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions) - refer to manual for exact details

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 36 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles or 72 months (Iridium type)

Coolant Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 36 months (Subaru Super Coolant recommended)

Engine Oil Type:

5W-30 Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic (API SG or SH rated)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil GL-5 75W-90 (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF HP (or Dexron III compatible)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue)

Head Gasket Leaks:

While less prevalent than in later generations of EJ engines, head gasket failures can occur, often manifesting as coolant leaks or white smoke from the exhaust. The manual details diagnostic and replacement procedures.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Cracked exhaust manifolds are a common issue due to thermal cycling, leading to exhaust leaks and ticking noises. The manual covers inspection and replacement.

Radiator Leaks:

Aging radiators can develop leaks, especially at the plastic end tanks. The manual provides guidance on coolant system diagnosis and radiator replacement.

Cv Joint Wear:

Front CV axles can wear over time, especially in vehicles driven frequently in adverse conditions. The manual covers inspection and replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), is renowned for its horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, prioritizing safety, reliability, and capable performance.

First Generation Start:

The Subaru Forester debuted globally in 1997 as part of Subaru's 'otipo' (New Age) design philosophy, entering its second generation in late 2002.

Sf Generation Design:

The first-generation (SF) Forester, produced from 1997-2002, blended the attributes of a passenger car with the utility and higher stance of an SUV.

Production Location:

Gunma Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Awards:

The Subaru Forester has consistently been praised for its practicality and all-weather capability, often earning accolades from automotive publications for its class-leading AWD system and comfortable ride.