Positioning:
The Subaru Forester is positioned as a compact crossover SUV known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practicality, and utility, appealing to outdoors enthusiasts and families.
Competitors:
Competes with vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, and Mazda CX-5, offering a distinct advantage with its standard AWD and Subaru's reputation for durability.
Vehicle Highlights:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, boxer engine layout, good ground clearance for its class, practical interior space, comfortable ride.
Coverage:
All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, maintenance, repair, diagnostics, troubleshooting, and restoration.
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific number not provided, but indicated as extensive).
Type:
Service Repair Manual (SRM)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical ( EJ253, EJ255), engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual), all-wheel drive (AWD) system.
Chassis:
Suspension (front struts, rear multi-link), steering (power-assisted rack and pinion), brakes (front vented discs, rear discs, ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, audio system, HVAC controls, SRS (airbag) system, Body Control Module (BCM), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, glass, bumpers, seals, corrosion protection.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, belt inspections.
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, head gasket replacement, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical component diagnostics and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring harness tracing, component testing procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete vehicle disassembly and reassembly, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Code:
EJ253 (Naturally Aspirated), EJ255 (Turbocharged - XT models)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2498 cc)
Configuration:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder
Horsepower Na:
Approximately 173 hp @ 5800 rpm (EJ253)
Torque Na:
Approximately 166 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (EJ253)
Horsepower Turbo:
Approximately 224 hp @ 5200 rpm (EJ255 - XT models)
Torque Turbo:
Approximately 226 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (EJ255 - XT models)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (Regular Unleaded) for NA models, 91 Octane (Premium Unleaded) recommended for XT models.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (with Sportshift on some models)
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) - standard on all trims.
AWD System Details:
Viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate clutch (automatic), providing active torque distribution.
Length:
Approx. 179.9 inches (4570 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
Approx. 65.4 inches (1660 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 103.6 cu ft (2933 L)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 38.7 cu ft (1096 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 73.0 cu ft (2067 L)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3200-3500 lbs (1451-1588 kg) depending on trim and drivetrain.
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash:
5-Star (for front and rear passengers)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes
Electronic Stability Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) - Standard
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) - Standard
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions, LATCH system for child seats.
Audio System:
Base models feature a CD player with AM/FM radio and auxiliary input. Higher trims may offer an upgraded sound system and a 6-disc CD changer. Bluetooth connectivity was not widely available on these early models.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard.
Traction Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS) are standard.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Usb Port:
Not standard on this generation. Aftermarket solutions may exist.
Bluetooth:
Limited availability, typically on higher trims via aftermarket head unit integration or optional dealer-installed kits.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal conditions) using synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (Iridium spark plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (This generation uses a timing chain, which is designed to last the life of the engine, but inspection is recommended).
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-20 (API SN or higher) - Synthetic Recommended.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with Subaru's additive package.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier generations, Subaru EJ engines can be susceptible to head gasket leaks. Early detection and proper repair are crucial. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ25 engines can exhibit higher than normal oil consumption. The manual covers checking oil levels and potential causes.
Catalytic Converter:
Over time, catalytic converters can degrade, leading to reduced performance. The manual details diagnostic procedures for the emissions system.
Suspension Components:
Like many vehicles, wear on suspension bushings and struts can occur, leading to noise or handling issues. The manual provides specifications and replacement guides.
Subaru Philosophy:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation, has a heritage built on engineering excellence, particularly its pioneering use of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and boxer engines, emphasizing safety, reliability, and capability.
Forester Introduction:
The Forester was first introduced in 1997, designed to bridge the gap between station wagons and SUVs. The 2007-2008 models represent the second generation (SG), which received a significant facelift and updates for the 2006 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Gunma Prefecture)
IIHS Awards:
Consistently ranked as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) during its generation.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally received good reliability ratings from Consumer Reports for its class, though specific model years and engines could vary. The manual helps address potential wear items.
