Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Key Selling Points:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), practicality, reliability, good visibility
Key Competitors 2002:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra
Subaru Advantage:
Standard Symmetrical AWD system provides superior traction and stability
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, ECU diagnostics
Engine Mechanical:
Disassembly, inspection, reassembly of engine components (pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, cylinder heads)
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox, shift mechanisms, drive shafts
Transmission Automatic:
Hydraulic control, valve body, torque converter, planetary gear sets
Drivetrain AWD:
Viscous coupling, center differential, rear differential, axles
Suspension:
Front struts, rear multi-link, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment
Brakes:
Front discs, rear drums/discs (depending on trim), ABS system, brake hydraulics, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, linkage
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power windows, mirrors, locks
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, controls, refrigerant system
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, glass, seats, trim, dashboard
Diagnostics:
OBD-II codes, troubleshooting flowcharts, diagnostic procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement
Scheduled Maintenance:
Timing belt replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid change
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing common and complex issues
Component Repair:
Detailed instructions for disassembling, repairing, and reassembling all major vehicle components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Subaru-specific tools
Depth Level:
Expert/Professional (covers complete rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and OEM specifications)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (ECT)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent (Check manual for exact specification, e.g., Dexron III compatible but Subaru specific is preferred)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity Approx:
3.5 - 4.0 Quarts (for drain and fill)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Driver:
4 of 5 stars (2002 Model)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Passenger:
4 of 5 stars (2002 Model)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good (for its class and time)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available (may vary by trim)
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months, whichever comes first (severe driving conditions), or 7,500 miles / 7.5 months (normal driving conditions). Check manual for specifics.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with oil change
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified, Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (with filter)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed or every 15,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (Long-life platinum or iridium recommended)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (critical maintenance item for interference engine)
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 3 years (Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (DOT 3 or DOT 4)
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF (Check manual)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier EJ engines, early second-gen models can still experience head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can wear prematurely; manual provides testing and replacement procedures.
Evap System Leaks:
Common cause of Check Engine Lights; manual covers diagnostic procedures for the evaporative emission control system.
Subaru Dna:
Known for Symmetrical AWD, boxer engines, and rally heritage
Forester Generation Second:
Second Generation (SG) launched for the 2003 model year, this 2002 model is the final year of the first generation (SF).
Production Years First Gen:
1997-2002
Manufacturing Plant:
Gunma Manufacturing Plant, Japan