🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Years Covered:

2013, 2014

Generation:

Fourth Generation (SJ)

Chassis Code:

SJ

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Positioning:

Practical, family-oriented SUV known for its standard All-Wheel Drive, excellent visibility, and spacious interior. Appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and those prioritizing safety and reliability.

Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox

Std AWD:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across all trims.

Visibility:

Excellent outward visibility due to large windows and raised driving position.

Interior Space:

Generous passenger and cargo space for its class.

Safety Focus:

Strong emphasis on safety, reflected in design and available features like EyeSight (optional on some trims).

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (primarily North America based on common product offerings, but generally applicable to all SJ chassis Foresters)

Estimated Page Count:

2500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emission control, engine management, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, turbocharged systems (XT models)

Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (MT), Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - Lineartronic, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, driveshafts, axles

Chassis:

Suspension (front struts, rear multi-link), steering system (electric power steering), braking system (ABS, EBD, VDC), wheels and tires

Electrical:

12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), instrument panel, audio system, navigation system, climate control system, SRS airbag system, immobilizer, keyless entry

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, glass, doors, latches, hinges, bumpers, underbody, weatherstripping

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement), brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation, battery service

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, circuit diagrams, connector pinouts, sensor testing

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement (struts, control arms), steering rack replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair/replacement

Special Procedures:

CVT fluid flush and fill, AWD system component servicing, airbag system servicing, ECU re-flashing/programming, adaptive cruise control (ACC) calibration, key programming

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Resolution:

High resolution, suitable for printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

Text Search:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 2.5I:

EJ253 (Naturally Aspirated)

Engine Type 2.5I:

2.5L Boxer-4 (Naturally Aspirated)

Displacement 2.5I:

2498 cc

Horsepower 2.5I:

170 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 2.5I:

174 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm

Engine Code 2.0Xt:

FA20DIT (Turbocharged)

Engine Type 2.0Xt:

2.0L Boxer-4 (Turbocharged Direct Injection)

Displacement 2.0Xt:

1998 cc

Horsepower 2.0Xt:

250 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 2.0Xt:

258 lb-ft @ 2000-4800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for 2.5i, Direct Injection (DI) with MPI for 2.0XT

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Recommended Octane 2.5I:

87 AKI (Octane Rating)

Recommended Octane 2.0Xt:

91 AKI (Octane Rating) recommended for optimal performance

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 2.5I Std:

6-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Transmission 2.0Xt Std:

Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with 8-speed manual mode (paddle shifters)

Transmission 2.5I Opt:

Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

AWD System Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all models)

Cvtf Fluid Spec:

Subaru CVT Fluid (NS-2 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.8 inches (4567 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

65.1 inches (1653 mm) (without roof rails)

Wheelbase:

103.9 inches (2639 mm)

Passenger Volume:

~105.0 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

34.4 cu ft

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

70.9 cu ft

Curb Weight Approx:

3300 - 3550 lbs (1500 - 1610 kg) depending on trim and transmission

Towing Capacity:

1000 lbs (454 kg) (non-braked), 2400 lbs (1089 kg) (braked, often requires optional trailer brake controller)

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

2013 & 2014 models were typically IIHS Top Safety Pick winners.

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Generally received 5-star overall safety ratings from NHTSA.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Vdc:

Vehicle Dynamics Control (Traction Control & Stability Control)

Eyesight Optional:

Optional EyeSight driver assistance system (includes Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, etc.) available on higher trims.

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear).

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit Options:

Base models feature a 6.2-inch touchscreen. Higher trims offer a 7-inch touchscreen with navigation, Bluetooth, USB, and auxiliary inputs. Available SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

Audio System:

Standard 4-speaker or optional 6-speaker audio system. Harman Kardon premium audio available on Limited trims.

Eyesight Features:

Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Lane Departure Warning, Sway Warning.

Other Features:

Backup camera (standard on most trims), Blind-spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (optional on higher trims).

Bluetooth Connectivity:

Standard for hands-free calling and audio streaming on most trims.

Usb Ports:

Standard USB port for media playback and device charging.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) for normal driving conditions. Consult manual for severe driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 36 months.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 18 months.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.5I:

Every 105,000 miles (Iridium type).

Spark Plug Replacement 2.0Xt:

Every 60,000 miles (Iridium type, specific part number may vary).

Engine Oil 2.5I:

SAE 0W-20, API SN or SN PLUS certified. Capacity: 5.1 US quarts (4.8 liters) with filter.

Engine Oil 2.0Xt:

SAE 0W-20, API SN or SN PLUS certified. Capacity: 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Oil Consumption 2.5I:

Some early EJ25 engines were known for higher oil consumption. Regular checks are recommended.

Cvt Issues:

While generally reliable, improper fluid maintenance or aggressive driving can stress the CVT. Following the service intervals is crucial.

Suspension Noise:

Occasional reports of front strut mount or sway bar link noise. Diagnosis via manual procedures is key.

Turbo Lag 2.0Xt:

While the FA20DIT is responsive, some drivers may perceive turbo lag. The manual details boost control and wastegate operation.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Subaru has a long history of producing rugged, all-wheel-drive vehicles, particularly known for their horizontally-opposed ('boxer') engines and rally racing heritage.

Fourth Gen Introduction:

The 2013 model year marked the debut of the fourth generation (SJ) Forester, representing a significant redesign from the previous generation.

Design Philosophy:

The fourth generation aimed to enhance comfort, refinement, and fuel efficiency while retaining the core Forester attributes of practicality and AWD capability. It featured a more car-like driving experience and updated styling.

Engine Changes:

Introduction of the turbocharged 2.0L FA20DIT engine for the Forester XT, offering significantly improved performance.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Consistent recognition as an IIHS Top Safety Pick for these model years, underscoring its safety credentials.

Kelley Blue Book:

Often cited by Kelley Blue Book for its value and family-friendly attributes.

Autotrader:

Frequently recommended by automotive review sites like Autotrader for its practicality and standard AWD.