🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

SF (first generation, though 2002 falls into the SG generation)

Generation Code:

SG (second generation, 2003-2008, but 2002 can sometimes be referred to as late SF or early SG depending on region/transition)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking AWD capability and practicality.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Mazda Tribute.

Drivetrain:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is a defining characteristic.

Engine Type:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine configuration for a lower center of gravity.

Body Style:

Station wagon/SUV crossover with excellent cargo space and ground clearance.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Downloadable)

Audience:

Professional Technicians and Advanced DIYers

Estimated Page Count:

~2000-3000 pages (typical for a complete factory service manual)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine control systems (ECU), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, automatic transmission (AT), manual transmission (MT).

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Vehicle electrical system, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instruments and indicators, HVAC system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags, immobilizer system.

Body:

Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, body sealing.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance checks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, brake, power steering), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, HVAC problems, brake system malfunctions, based on symptom-based troubleshooting charts and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation for virtually all major vehicle systems. Includes engine overhauls, transmission repairs, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, etc.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic information, sensor data interpretation, wiring diagrams for electrical troubleshooting, component testing procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ25 (2.5L SOHC/DOHC)

Engine Type:

2.5L Boxer-4 (Horizontally-Opposed)

Displacement:

2457 cc (2.5 Liters)

Horsepower Hp:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm (SOHC) / 175 hp @ 6000 rpm (DOHC - typically XT models, though 2002 standard was often SOHC)

Torque Lb Ft:

166 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (SOHC) / 169 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (DOHC)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition (Distributorless Ignition System - D.I.S. or Coil-on-Plug)

ECU Type:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostics capabilities (OBD-II)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) or 5-Speed Manual Transmission (5MT)

Transmission Options:

Available with both 4-speed automatic and 5-speed manual, depending on trim level.

AWD Integration:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system integrated with transmission (active AWD for automatic, viscous center differential for manual).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Genuine ATF HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid for older specs, but HP is preferred for 2002 models).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Genuine 75W-90 Gear Oil (or GL-5 rated 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 175.0 inches (4445 mm)

Width:

Approximately 69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

Approximately 63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 8.0 inches (203 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approximately 32.0 cubic feet (0.90 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approximately 67.3 cubic feet (1.91 cubic meters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3150 - 3300 lbs (1429 - 1497 kg), depending on transmission and trim.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 2400 lbs (1089 kg) with proper towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4 Stars (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

4 Stars (Front Seat occupants)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for its time)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

AWD:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side curtain airbags in some later models/trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, pretensioners and force limiters for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with optional premium audio and/or CD changer.

Display:

Basic dashboard display for climate control and audio information.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Traction Control:

While AWD provides inherent traction, dedicated traction control systems were not widely standard on all 2002 models.

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically standard; aftermarket solutions may be available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specifics).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

NGK Platinum/Iridium plugs: 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km); Copper plugs: 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic oil meeting API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-6 specifications.

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.4 US quarts (4.2 Liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Genuine Coolant (Blue) or equivalent Subaru-compatible, long-life ethylene glycol-based coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure compliance with manual specifications).

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than in some older Subaru models, head gasket leaks can occur. Proper maintenance and early detection are key.

Catalytic Converter:

Can become clogged over time, affecting performance and emissions. Regular exhaust system checks are advisable.

Automatic Transmission:

Some units may experience delayed engagement or slipping; regular fluid changes are critical.

Suspension Components:

Wear on bushings, ball joints, and struts is common with mileage, affecting ride quality and alignment.

O2 Sensors:

Can fail with age, leading to check engine lights and poor fuel economy.

📚 Vehicle History

Parent Company:

Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries)

Core Philosophy:

Emphasis on AWD, boxer engines, safety, and durability.

First Generation Sf:

Introduced in 1997, established the compact SUV segment for Subaru.

Second Generation Sg:

Introduced for the 2003 model year, an evolution of the SF with updated styling, chassis, and features. The 2002 model year is a transition point, representing the final year of the SF generation, but often shares engineering commonalities with the early SG.

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Manufacturing Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

While the 2002 model predates the widespread 'Top Safety Pick' awards as we know them, its performance in frontal and side impact tests indicated a strong safety profile for its era.

Four Wheel Drive System:

Subaru's Symmetrical AWD system consistently praised for its effectiveness in diverse weather conditions.