Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Individuals and families seeking a versatile, all-weather capable vehicle with a focus on safety and practicality
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra, Ford Escape
Forester Advantage:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, more rugged chassis, higher ground clearance (compared to many rivals)
Drivetrain:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) across all trims
Ground Clearance:
Segment-leading ground clearance for off-pavement capability
Body Style:
Wagon/SUV hybrid, offering sedan-like driving dynamics with SUV utility
Engine:
All engine variants (Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged EJ25, EJ20)
Transmission:
Manual (5-speed), Automatic (4-speed)
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front, rear, center viscous coupling)
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, Rear multi-link, springs, shock absorbers, anti-roll bars
Brakes:
Front vented discs, Rear discs/drums (depending on model/year), ABS system
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, power accessories, starter, alternator, fuses, relays
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, EVAP system
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, coolant
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, ABS
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, belt inspections, spark plug replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), circuit testing
Repair:
Component removal and installation, system overhauls, minor and major repairs
Rebuilding:
Engine assembly, transmission rebuilding, differential service
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive torque values for all fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all systems
Depth:
In-depth, professional-level coverage suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians
Level Of Detail:
Includes detailed explanations, step-by-step instructions, exploded views, and diagnostic flowcharts
Engine Code Na:
EJ25 SOHC/DOHC (2.5L)
Engine Code Turbo:
EJ205 DOHC Turbocharged (2.0L) - common in XT models, some markets
Horsepower Na Sohc:
165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (approx.)
Torque Na Sohc:
166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)
Horsepower Na DOHc:
175 hp @ 5,600 rpm (approx.)
Torque Na DOHc:
177 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)
Horsepower Turbo Ej205:
210-227 hp @ 5,600 rpm (depending on model/market)
Torque Turbo Ej205:
236-250 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm (depending on model/market)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, 91+ for Turbo)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 Quarts (6.6 Liters)
Spark Plugs:
NGK PFR6G (or equivalent, check manual for specifics)
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed Automatic (Sportshift available on some models)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Viscous Coupling Center Differential
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent, check manual for precise recommendation)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or 75W-90 GL-5 equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 3.4 Quarts (3.2 Liters) for drain/refill
Manual Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 2.1 Quarts (2.0 Liters)
Length:
Approx. 175.5 inches (4455 mm)
Width:
Approx. 68.1 inches (1730 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.7 inches (195 mm)
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 3,050 lbs (1383 kg)
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 3,450 lbs (1565 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 32.0 cu ft (906 Liters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 67.7 cu ft (1917 Liters)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:
5-Star (1997-2001 models generally)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:
5-Star (1997-2001 models generally)
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
4-Star (1997-2001 models generally)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
4-Star (1997-2001 models generally)
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good (Good)
IIHS Side Crash Rating:
Acceptable (Acceptable) or Poor (Poor) depending on model year and specific testing criteria
ABS:
Standard on most trims
Traction Control:
Available on some later models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard, optional side airbags on some later models
Seat Belts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) introduced on later models
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months (severe use); 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (normal use, synthetic oil recommended)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months (if equipped)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum/iridium plugs
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years (critical service, failure can cause severe engine damage)
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for optimal performance
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Engine Oil:
5W-30 (Synthetic recommended for all models, especially turbocharged versions)
Engine Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in later generations, early EJ25 SOHC engines can be prone to head gasket failure. The manual provides inspection and repair procedures.
Turbo Seals:
Turbocharged models may experience turbo seal wear leading to oil consumption or smoke. Manual covers turbo inspection and replacement.
A C System:
A/C compressor clutch issues or refrigerant leaks can occur. Manual provides A/C system diagnostics and repair.
Rear Differential Seals:
Leaking rear differential seals are a common maintenance item. Manual details seal replacement.
Subaru Identity:
Known for its boxer engines, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and rally racing heritage
Introduction Year:
1997 (Japan), 1998 (North America)
Generation Designation:
SF series
Facelift:
Minor facelift occurred in 2001, including revised front fascia, headlights, and interior updates
Manufacturing Plant:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Sales Trend:
Steady sales, appealing to a niche market for practical, all-weather vehicles
Car And Driver Towing Capacity:
Not a primary focus, but capable of light towing (check specific year/model ratings)
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varied, with some years scoring better than others. The manual is crucial for addressing common maintenance needs proactively.
Icamper Utility:
Praised for its utility and AWD capability for outdoor enthusiasts