🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2005

Generation:

Second Generation (SG)

Chassis Code:

SG

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking a versatile and capable SUV.

Key Competitors 2005:

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

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system offering excellent traction and stability in various conditions.

Ground Clearance:

Higher-than-average ground clearance for its class, enhancing off-road and adverse weather capability.

Practicality:

Spacious interior, versatile cargo space, and good visibility contributing to excellent practicality.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics

Specific Systems Highlighted:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical, HVAC, Bodywork, Diagnostics

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 2000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval

Printable:

Printable pages for hands-on use in the workshop

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed specifications, troubleshooting, repair procedures for all engine variants (e.g., EJ25 SOHC, EJ25 DOHC Turbo).

Transmission:

Service and repair for both manual (e.g., TY756) and automatic transmissions (e.g., 4EAT), including fluid types and capacities.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system servicing, including differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, power steering system, and steering rack.

Brakes:

Disc brake system (front and rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, parking brake, and hydraulic systems.

Electrical Electronics:

Complete wiring diagrams, ECU (Engine Control Unit) operations, sensor diagnostics, lighting systems, power accessories, and charging system.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system servicing, heater core, climate control unit, and refrigerant handling.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, chassis diagnostics, and structural repairs.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil change procedures, filter replacements, tune-ups, and fluid checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification, and systematic troubleshooting for various systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all vehicle components, from minor adjustments to major component overhauls.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) code explanations, diagnostic tool usage, and sensor data analysis.

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed procedures for removing, disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling all major mechanical and electrical components.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution scans or original factory documentation ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ251 (2.5L SOHC)

Displacement 1:

2498 cc

Configuration 1:

Naturally Aspirated, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder

Horsepower 1:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 1:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System 1:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Code 2:

EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbo - XT/XT Premium trims)

Displacement 2:

2457 cc (Slightly different bore/stroke)

Configuration 2:

Turbocharged, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder

Horsepower 2:

210 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 2:

235 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel System 2:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Turbocharger

Compression Ratio Na:

10.1:1

Compression Ratio Turbo:

8.4:1

Recommended Fuel Na:

87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)

Recommended Fuel Turbo:

91 Octane (Premium Unleaded)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug

Emission Control:

Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors (O2), EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Na:

4-Speed Automatic (4EAT)

Transmission Type Turbo:

5-Speed Manual (TY756)

Transmission Type Na Optional:

5-Speed Manual (TY756)

Transmission Type Turbo Optional:

4-Speed Automatic (4EAT)

AWD System Auto:

Active Torque Split AWD (governed by hydraulic clutch)

AWD System Manual:

Continuous AWD (governed by viscous coupling center differential)

Fluid Type Auto:

Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon)

Fluid Capacity Auto:

Approx. 3.4 US quarts (3.2 Liters) for change, 7.1 US quarts (6.7 Liters) total refill.

Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

Fluid Capacity Manual:

Approx. 2.0 US quarts (1.9 Liters)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.9 inches (4570 mm)

Width:

69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

65.4 inches (1660 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.0 inches (2615 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.1 inches (206 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

31.4 cubic feet (890 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

63.0 cubic feet (1785 liters)

Curb Weight Est Min:

3265 lbs (1481 kg) (NA Model)

Curb Weight Est Max:

3500 lbs (1588 kg) (Turbo Model)

Towing Capacity:

2400 lbs (1089 kg) (When properly equipped)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Wheel Size Standard:

16-inch alloy wheels

Wheel Size Premium/Xt:

17-inch alloy wheels

Tire Size Standard:

215/60R16

Tire Size Premium/Xt:

215/55R17

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

Good

IIHS Roof Strength:

Good

ABS:

Standard 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS

Traction Control:

Available (Traction Control System - TCS)

Stability Control:

Available (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC)

Airbags Front:

Dual-stage front driver and passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional front side-impact airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Optional front and rear side-curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions, LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM/CD stereo system, optional CD changer and premium audio options available. Wiring diagrams for upgrades are crucial.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level. Manual details HVAC component operation and diagnosis.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System.

Vdc:

Available Vehicle Dynamics Control (stability and traction control) enhances handling and safety.

Aux Input:

Not standard. Aftermarket integration often involves bypass modules or replacing the head unit.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Frequency:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months (severe conditions), or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (normal conditions).

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs (standard on later models).

Timing Belt:

Replace every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for EJ25 engines. Crucial for preventing catastrophic engine damage.

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years thereafter.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30, API SG or higher. (Check manual for exact specification for climate).

Engine Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent Ethylene Glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors for aluminum engines. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF.

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent in the SG generation compared to earlier models, some EJ25 engines can still develop external head gasket leaks. Internal leaks are less common but possible. The manual details inspection and repair procedures.

Catalytic Converter:

Can become clogged or fail over time, impacting performance and emissions. Manual covers diagnostic procedures.

Wheel Bearings:

Front wheel bearings can be a wear item and may require replacement. Manual provides replacement steps.

Automatic Transmission Shifts:

Some reports of hesitant shifting or harsh engagement. Proper fluid maintenance is key; manual aids diagnosis.

Oil Leaks:

Common areas for minor leaks include valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets. Manual guides removal and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Focus:

Subaru has a long history in rally racing and is known for its boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, emphasizing capability and driver engagement.

Forester Introduction:

The Forester was first introduced in 1997, blending wagon-like comfort with SUV-like utility and AWD capability.

Sg Generation Debut:

The second generation (SG) debuted for the 2003 model year, featuring a significant redesign with a more conventional SUV-like appearance and improved refinement.

2005 Updates:

The 2005 model year saw some minor cosmetic updates and potentially new features for higher trims, but retained the core platform and powertrain options.

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Λογή:

Car and Driver magazine frequently named the Subaru Forester to its '10Best Trucks' list in the late 1990s and early 2000s, highlighting its capability and utility. (Specific award for 2005 model year may vary).

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

The second-generation Forester (SG) generally performed well in IIHS crash testing, earning 'Good' ratings in key categories, often leading to safety accolades.