Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle
Usp:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, boxer engine, and utilitarian design offering versatility and capability.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra
Vehicle Highlights:
Standard AWD, comfortable ride, practical interior space, good visibility, robust build quality.
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for owners and independent mechanics to perform accurate diagnosis, maintenance, and repairs, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.
Regions Covered:
Global (primarily focused on LHD markets based on steering position)
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2500 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era, actual may vary)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, searchable) / Print (depending on product offering)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECU/ECM)
Transmission Systems:
Manual and Automatic Transmission (including AWD system integration), clutch, driveline components
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS if equipped), wheel alignment
Electrical Systems:
Power distribution, battery, charging system, starter, lighting, wipers/washers, instruments, audio system, airbags, security system
Body And Interior:
Body construction, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, glass
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups, belt replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (e.g., head gaskets, timing belts, water pump), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common symptom analysis, fault code interpretation (OBD-II)
Diagnostics:
Component testing, sensor readings, electrical system diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics)
Digital Format Details:
High-resolution PDF, bookmarking for navigation, text-searchable for quick information retrieval, printable pages
Print Quality Description:
Clear, legible text and diagrams, professional layout
Binding Type Description:
Professional binding (e.g., perfect bound, spiral bound for ease of use in a workshop)
Paper Type Description:
Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer Engine (Horizontally Opposed)
Engine Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2498 cc)
Engine Code Common:
EJ253 (for non-turbo variants of this generation)
Engine Configuration:
4-Cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm (typical for EJ25)
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1 (typical for EJ253)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves (4 per cylinder)
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm (US Spec)
Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Induction:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher octane may improve performance)
Emission Controls:
Catalytic Converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), Secondary Air Injection (depending on market)
Notable Engine Characteristics
Boxer Advantage:
Lower center of gravity, improved handling and stability, smoother operation.
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Lock-Up Torque Converter
AWD System:
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Standard on all models)
AWD Type Manual:
Viscous coupling center differential with open front/rear differentials.
AWD Type Automatic:
Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch center differential (Active AWD).
Fluid Specifications Automatic
Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP (or Dexron III equivalent)
Fluid Specifications Manual
Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (check manual for specific Subaru specification)
Length:
Approx. 175.7 inches (4463 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.2 inches (1605 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.0 inches (2616 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000-3300 lbs (1361-1497 kg) depending on transmission and trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4400-4600 lbs (1996-2087 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 27.4 cubic feet (776 liters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 63.0 cubic feet (1784 liters)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4/5 stars (likely, for 2WD/AWD configurations)
IIHS Crash Test Results:
Good (likely, for front and side impact tests)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Available on some models/trims
Electronic Brake-Force Distribution Ebd:
Often integrated with ABS
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags standard; side airbags available on higher trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with 4-6 speakers. Higher trims may offer premium audio or cassette players.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control standard; automatic climate control available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors standard on most trims.
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trims.
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 specific recommendations).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs, or earlier for platinum. Consult manual for correct type and interval.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Approximately every 90,000-105,000 miles (145,000-169,000 km) or 7-10 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (check manual for exact specification and capacity - typically ~4.5 quarts with filter)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent long-life silicate-free coolant. Mix 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 7.4 quarts.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual)
Head Gaskets:
Known for potential head gasket leaks (internal or external) in EJ series engines, especially if overheated or poorly maintained. This manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Can develop oil leaks from the rear main crankshaft seal.
Automatic Transmission Performance:
Some owners report occasional harsh shifting; proper fluid maintenance is key.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, affecting ride and handling.
Subaru Foundation:
Founded in 1953, known for its unique engineering (boxer engines, AWD), particularly in rally racing and challenging climates.
Forester Introduction:
First generation (SF) introduced in 1997, establishing the crossover segment by blending SUV utility with car-like driving dynamics.
Second Generation Sg:
The 2001-2002 model years represent the transition to the second generation (SG) chassis, which offered improved styling, safety, and refinement over the first generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Prefecture, Japan
Car And Driver Ten Best:
While specific mentions for 2001-2002 may vary, Subaru vehicles of this era often received praise for their AWD capability and value, sometimes appearing on '10 Best SUVs' lists.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally rated as average to above average for reliability by Consumer Reports during this period, though specific issues like head gaskets were noted.
Safety Certifications:
Meets or exceeds all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its model years.