🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

SF

Engine Codes:

EJ251, EJ252

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Subaru Forester 2000 is a compact crossover SUV known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, comfortable ride, and practicality. It competed in a segment with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape.

Competitive Analysis:

The Forester's key differentiator was its Subaru heritage of AWD and horizontally-opposed 'boxer' engines, offering better handling and stability in adverse conditions compared to many front-wheel-drive-biased competitors. It offered a more car-like driving experience than some truck-based SUVs of the era.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, distinctive raised wagon/SUV styling, comfortable interior, reliable powertrain, practical cargo space.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All aspects of repair, maintenance, rebuild, refurbishment, restoration

Page Count:

Extensive (exact count not specified, but described as 'very detailed')

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed or digital (PDF) depending on the seller's specific product listing.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic and parking), body electrical, lighting, climate control, body and frame, interior trim, exterior trim, wheels and tires, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, minor repairs, major repairs, component replacement, troubleshooting and diagnostics, wiring diagrams, torque specifications, fluid capacities, special tools, disassembly and reassembly of all major components.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, suspension overhauls, and electrical system diagnostics. Designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Information not explicitly stated, but typically PDF for digital versions or printed book for physical versions. Assumed to be searchable if digital.

Print Quality:

Typically high-quality, with clear diagrams and legible text. Professional binding for printed versions.

Binding Type:

Likely perfect bound or spiral bound for printed versions to allow for lay-flat use during repairs.

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.5-liter Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (EJ251, EJ252)

Horsepower:

Approximately 165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (varies slightly by exact engine code and market)

Torque:

Approximately 162 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (varies slightly by exact engine code and market)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder

Bore Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Optional Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Drivetrain Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Automatic Transmission Model:

TZ102 (typical)

Manual Transmission Model:

TY752 (typical)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF HP or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 (API GL-5) gear oil (check manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Length:

Approx. 175.0 inches (4445 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.7 inches (196 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 33.6 cu ft (951 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 67.5 cu ft (1911 L)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,150 - 3,350 lbs (1429 - 1519 kg) depending on trim and transmission

Towing Capacity:

Approx. 2,000 lbs (907 kg) (check local regulations and manual for accuracy)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for MY2000)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Rating:

Good (for MY2000)

Active Features:

All-Wheel Drive, Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (on some models/trims)

Passive Features:

Dual front airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, side-impact door beams, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player. Optional premium sound system available on higher trims. Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on safety through AWD. No electronic stability control or advanced driver aids available on this model year.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Auxiliary input ports were not standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (severe conditions may require more frequent changes). Refer to manual for specific mileage.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months. Check for clogging more frequently.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (standard vs. platinum/iridium). Refer to manual for exact recommendation.

Coolant Flush:

Initial flush at 30,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter (or as specified by manual, potentially Subaru Super Coolant).

Engine Oil Type:

5W-30 Synthetic or Conventional (API SG or higher). Refer to owner's manual for precise specification.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with Subaru additive. Do not mix coolant types.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Known Issues:

Head gasket leaks (common on EJ series engines of this era), front CV axle wear, minor electrical gremlins, potential for rust on underbody components in harsh climates, automatic transmission temperature sensitivity.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Subaru: 15208AA031 (typical, verify for specific VIN)

Air Filter Part Number:

Subaru: 16546AA020 (typical, verify for specific VIN)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history dating back to 1953. Known for its engineering prowess, particularly its horizontally-opposed boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, Subaru built a reputation for reliability, safety, and capability in diverse conditions.

Model Evolution:

The Subaru Forester debuted in North America for the 1998 model year as a 1999 model, marking Subaru's entry into the burgeoning compact SUV/crossover segment. The 2000 model year represented the first significant update to the first generation (SF chassis) Forester, offering minor styling tweaks and potential feature enhancements. The second generation arrived for the 2003 model year.

Production Years Generation 1:

1998-2002 (North America)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (primarily)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Subaru Forester generally received positive reviews for its practicality and AWD capability. While specific awards for the 2000 model year might be scarce, the model line was recognized for its utility and value within the compact SUV segment.

Ratings:

Consistently rated well by automotive publications for its ride comfort, handling for an SUV, and all-weather capability. Often praised for its value proposition.

Certifications:

Compliant with all applicable US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for the model year.