Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Competitive Set:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra
AWD Standard:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system as standard across most trims
Practicality:
Spacious interior, excellent cargo capacity for its class, good ground clearance
Safety Focus:
Designed with safety as a priority, common Subaru trait
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, timing belt replacement, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, emission control systems (EGR, EVAP), sensor diagnostics (MAF, O2, TPS)
Transmission Automatic:
Overhaul, fluid and filter change, torque converter service, shift solenoid diagnostics, valve body service
Transmission Manual:
Clutch service, gear installation, bearing replacement, shift linkage adjustment
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints
Suspension:
Front struts and springs, rear shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, sway bars, wheel alignment procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system diagnostics, brake fluid flush, caliper and rotor replacement
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, lighting systems, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control panel
Body And Interior:
Door panel removal, seat adjustment, dashboard disassembly, body panel repair and replacement
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics for common problems
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Diagnostics:
Component testing, circuit analysis, use of scan tools
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical troubleshooting and bodywork.
Engine Type:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated Boxer 4-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Horsepower Hp:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Lb Ft:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves
Timing Belt Interval:
105,000 miles or 105 months (critical maintenance item)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
AWD Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent, consult manual for specific part number)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (or equivalent, consult manual for specific part number)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
★★★★★ (5/5 Stars)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some trims
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player, 4 or 6 speaker system depending on trim.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control with A/C and heater.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Keyless Entry:
Optional keyless entry and remote start on higher trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically available on this model; aftermarket solutions may exist.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal conditions). Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK Platinum or Iridium recommended).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher, consult manual for specific ILSAC rating)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.0 US quarts
Head Gaskets:
While less common in the 2.5L EJ253 compared to earlier EJ25D, head gasket leaks can still occur and are a critical repair.
Timing Belt:
Failure to replace the timing belt at the recommended interval can lead to catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can be prone to wear and noise over time.
Automatic Transmission:
Occasional issues with torque converter shudder or transmission solenoid failure, emphasize regular fluid changes.
Subaru Philosophy:
Known for its unique Boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, emphasizing durability and capability.
First Generation:
The 2001 Forester marks the second generation (SF series, 1997-2002) facelift, introducing updated styling and minor mechanical revisions.
Generation 2 Updates:
Revised exterior styling (grille, headlights, bumpers), improved interior materials, and minor engine tuning.
Manufacturing Location:
Ota City, Gunma, Japan
Production Years 2Nd Gen:
1997-2002