🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

SF Series

Engine Codes Covered:

EJ251, EJ252 (SOHC Naturally Aspirated)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV / Sports Utility Vehicle

Key Selling Points:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, spacious interior, good visibility, practical cargo space, reliable boxer engine.

Key Competitors 2000:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Jeep Cherokee.

Platform:

Subaru SF Series platform, shared with Impreza and Legacy sedans/wagons of the era.

Drivetrain Philosophy:

Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system as standard on all trims, emphasizing traction and stability in various conditions.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (likely comb-bound or stapled) / Digital (PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

1200-1500 pages (typical for a full factory service manual of this era)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, exhaust system.

Engine Performance:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (EFI), emission control systems (including EGR, PCV), engine diagnostics, idle control, component testing.

Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) and 5-Speed Manual Transmission (e.g., TY754). Includes disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, hydraulic control, shift control, clutch system (manual).

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front and rear), propeller shaft, drive shafts, wheel bearings, hub assemblies.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake systems, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, ABS system (if equipped).

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, bushings), steering gearbox, power steering system, steering column, alignment specifications.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), ignition system components, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control modules (BCM), ECU/ECM.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor), refrigerant servicing, troubleshooting.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, doors, hood, tailgate, frame and chassis components, corrosion protection.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid), tire rotation, belt inspection/replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, electrical diagnostic flowcharts, emission control troubleshooting.

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation of all major systems.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system, fault codes (DTCs), diagnostic tool usage, live data stream interpretation, sensor testing.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, component clearances, engine timing, fluid capacities, electrical system specifications.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostics, including pinpoint tests for electrical circuits, pressure testing, vacuum testing, and component-specific electrical parameter checks.

Rebuild Depth:

Comprehensive engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including detailed measurements, clearances, and assembly sequences.

Electrical Diagrams:

Full-color, detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including lighting, power distribution, engine controls, chassis electronics, and comfort systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Digital Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Print Quality Digital:

High-resolution scans of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Print Binding:

Likely coil-bound or comb-bound for easy page turning and lay-flat use.

Print Paper Quality:

Durable, semi-gloss paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated, Boxer-4 Cylinder (Horizontally Opposed)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Valve Train:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 4 valves per cylinder (16 valves total)

Horsepower Est:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Est:

177 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), multi-point injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Minimum)

ECU Type:

ECU (Engine Control Unit) / ECM (Engine Control Module)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

4-Speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

Transmission Type Opt:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (e.g., TY754)

AWD Integration:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF HP (or Dexron III compatible)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-5 Gear Oil, 75W-90 viscosity

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Length Est:

Approx. 175.0 inches (4445 mm)

Width Est:

Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height Est:

Approx. 63.2 inches (1605 mm)

Curb Weight Est:

3100 - 3300 lbs (1406 - 1497 kg), depending on trim and transmission

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats Est:

Approx. 31.5 cu ft (0.89 m³)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded Est:

Approx. 68.5 cu ft (1.94 m³)

Wheel Size Standard:

15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels

Tire Size Standard:

205/70 R15 or 215/60 R16

Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating Est:

4 out of 5 stars (based on period testing)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system, usually on rear seats.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on certain trims/options.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) was often an option or part of higher trims.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player (optional) or cassette player. Speaker configurations vary by trim.

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC controls with adjustable fan speed, temperature, and recirculation modes.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Keyless Entry:

Optional keyless entry system available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (using conventional oil), 7,500 miles or 6 months (using synthetic oil), check manual for specific recommendation.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (for iridium or platinum plugs, check specific type).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 90,000 miles or 7 years (critical maintenance item for EJ engines).

Engine Oil Type:

5W-30 (preferred), 10W-30, or 10W-40 depending on climate. API SG or higher.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with Subaru anti-corrosion additives.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Head Gaskets:

While less common on early EJ25 SOHC than later DOHC, head gasket leaks (coolant or oil) can occur, especially after high mileage or overheating. The manual covers diagnosis and replacement.

Timing Belt:

Timing belt failure is catastrophic. Regular replacement at the specified interval is crucial. Manual details proper tensioning and installation.

Catalytic Converter:

Catalytic converter failure or clogging can occur due to rich fuel mixtures or oil burning. Manual provides diagnostic steps for emissions-related issues.

Suspension Wear:

Bushing wear, strut wear, and ball joint wear are common with age and mileage, affecting ride and handling. Manual provides wear limits and replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Subaru Corporation, a Japanese automobile manufacturer known for its boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

Generation:

First Generation Forester (SF Series, 1997-2002)

Development Goal:

To combine the passenger car comfort of a Subaru Legacy with the higher ground clearance and practicality of an SUV.

Production Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automobile Magazine All Star:

The Subaru Forester (along with other Subaru models) consistently received accolades for its practicality and AWD capability from publications like MotorTrend and Car and Driver during this era.

IIHS Crash Test Ratings:

Performed well in IIHS crash tests for its time, though structural safety standards have evolved significantly since.