Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Usp:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, boxer engine layout, practicality, and go-anywhere capability.
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra (though often positioned slightly differently).
AWD System:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
Engine Layout:
Horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engine for a lower center of gravity and improved handling.
Body Style:
Compact SUV with a wagon-like profile, offering good cargo space and visibility.
Powertrain Engine:
2.5L SOHC EJ253, 2.5L DOHC EJ255 (Turbocharged)
Powertrain Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT), 5-Speed Manual Transmission
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Front Differential, Rear Differential, Transfer Case
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Multi-link, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Disc, Rear Disc (Solid), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Parking Brake System
Steering:
Power Assisted Rack and Pinion
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Fuel Pump, Fuel Injectors, Fuel Tank, Fuel Filter
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant Hoses, Cooling Fan
Lubrication System:
Engine Oil Pump, Oil Filter, Oil Pan, Lubrication Passages
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil-Pack, Spark Plugs, Ignition Coils
Starting Charging System:
Starter Motor, Alternator (Generator), Battery
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control)
HVAC System:
Heater, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (A/C) System, Compressor, Condenser, Evaporator, Blower Motor
Electrical System:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Wiper and Washer Systems, Power Windows, Power Locks, Horn, Entertainment System, Instrumentation
Safety Systems:
Airbag System (SRS), Seat Belt System
Body Structure:
Body Panels, Glass/Windows/Mirrors, Exterior/Interior Trim, Sunroof System
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for all systems, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system service, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body repair
Rebuilding Procedures:
Engine rebuilding, transmission rebuilding, component overhaul
Restoration Procedures:
Guidance applicable to restoring vintage components and systems
Electrical Service:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting electrical faults
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and repairs
Illustrations:
Hundreds of photographs, drawings, and detailed illustrations
Instruction Format:
Numbered step-by-step instructions, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings
Engine Description Na:
2.5-liter, SOHC, 16-valve, naturally aspirated flat-four boxer engine
Displacement Na:
2457 cc (149.9 cu in)
Bore Stroke Na:
99.5 mm x 80.0 mm
Compression Ratio Na:
9.7:1
Horsepower Na:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Na:
Approx. 162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System Na:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type Na:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Engine Code Turbo:
EJ255 (or similar iterations)
Engine Description Turbo:
2.5-liter, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged, intercooled flat-four boxer engine
Displacement Turbo:
2457 cc (149.9 cu in)
Compression Ratio Turbo:
8.5:1
Horsepower Turbo:
Approx. 210-225 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm (model dependent)
Torque Turbo:
Approx. 235-240 lb-ft @ 3600-4000 rpm (model dependent)
Fuel System Turbo:
Sequential Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type Turbo:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to specific manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (Automatic Transmission Fluid - ATF - should be changed regularly, especially for heavy use).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher recommended, check owner's manual for precise specifications).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (with filter) for 2.5L SOHC
Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP (for automatic transmission), GL-5 75W-90 gear oil (for manual transmission and differentials).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Blue Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as in later generations, some early Subaru models, including the Forester, could experience head gasket leaks. Regular coolant checks are advisable.
Catalytic Converter:
Can sometimes become clogged or fail over time, especially with higher mileage vehicles.
Wheel Bearings:
Can wear out over time, leading to humming or grinding noises.
Automatic Transmission:
Can develop issues with valve bodies or torque converter clutches if not properly maintained, especially in turbocharged models.