Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Brand Identity:
Subaru's reputation for Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), boxer engines, and practicality.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Mazda Tribute.
Vehicle Advantages:
Standard AWD, robust chassis, good visibility, practical interior space, robust safety features for its era.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners and independent repair shops to maintain and repair their vehicle effectively, saving on dealership costs and ensuring proper upkeep.
Primary Regions:
North America, Europe, Asia (specific markets may vary based on original publication)
Manual Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, as common for online sales)
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management, automatic transmission, manual transmission, transfer case, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front discs, rear discs/drums depending on spec), wheel alignment.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, mirrors, door locks, HVAC controls, audio system, starter, charging system, SRS (Airbag) system.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, towing, collision repair basics.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid level checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault identification and resolution.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation for all major systems.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing, electrical circuit testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance, component-level repair, advanced diagnostics, and some unit rebuild procedures.
Digital Format:
Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and printing.
Digital Reproduction Quality:
High-resolution scans or digital originals ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.
Digital Accessibility:
Viewable on any device with a PDF reader, printable pages.
Original Manual Paper:
Professional automotive-grade paper (if referencing original).
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed)
Engine Displacement 2.5L:
2.5 Liters (2457cc)
Engine Codes 2.5L:
EJ253 (Phase II OHV - rare for this generation, more likely SOHC EJ251 or DOHC EJ25)
Engine Displacement 2.0L:
2.0 Liters (1994cc) - Primarily for early JDM/export models
Engine Codes 2.0L:
EJ201 (SOHC)
Horsepower 2.5L:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm (for 2000-2002 models with EJ251 SOHC)
Torque 2.5L:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for 2000-2002 models with EJ251 SOHC)
Horsepower 2.5L Early:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm (for 1999 models with EJ25D DOHC)
Torque 2.5L Early:
155 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for 1999 models with EJ25D DOHC)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded Regular 87 Octane (check owner's manual for specific requirements)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with electronic control)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all models. Manual transmission models typically use a viscous coupling center differential. Automatic transmission models often feature an electronically controlled variable transfer clutch (VTD - Variable Torque Distribution) for enhanced traction management.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Subaru Genuine or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Genuine ATF HP or Dexron III (check owner's manual for precise specification and capacity)
Wheelbase:
2530 mm (99.6 in)
Length:
4410 mm (173.6 in)
Height:
1580 mm (62.2 in) (approximate, without roof rails)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 94.7 cu ft
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 30.0 cu ft
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 64.6 cu ft
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 1470 kg (3241 lbs)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 1490 kg (3285 lbs)
NHTSA Front Driver:
4/5 Stars (for 2000 model year)
NHTSA Front Passenger:
4/5 Stars (for 2000 model year)
IIHS Front Crash:
Good (for 2000 model year)
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Child Anchors:
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system in rear seats (introduced later in the generation).
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with 4 or 6 speakers depending on trim level. Steering wheel audio controls were not common for this generation.
Cruise Control:
Available on most trim levels.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically equipped with factory auxiliary or USB inputs; aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (under severe driving conditions, otherwise 7,500 miles / 12,000 km or 6 months).
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs typically last 60,000-100,000 miles. Check manual for specific type and interval (e.g., NGK BKR5EGP or equivalent).
Engine Oil Type 2.5L:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH (check owner's manual for latest recommendation or substitute, often 5W-30 or 5W-40).
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water, typically ethylene glycol-based).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III compatible fluid.
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in later EJ25 engines, some early EJ25D engines are known for head gasket failures. Proper cooling system maintenance is crucial.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Can fail, leading to starting issues or stalling. The manual will cover testing and replacement.
Oxygen Sensors:
Can degrade over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions. Manual provides testing procedures.
Automatic Transmission Cooler Lines:
Corrosion and leaks can occur on older vehicles. Manual outlines inspection and replacement.
Subaru Legacy Connection:
The Forester shares its platform with the Subaru Impreza and Legacy, inheriting their AWD and boxer engine DNA.
First Generation Launch:
Introduced in 1997 (model year 1998) as a 'sport utility wagon', bridging the gap between station wagons and SUVs.
1999 Update:
Minor updates may have occurred, but significant changes were more prominent in the 2003 redesign.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
