🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

SF Series (Second Generation)

Engine Code Primary:

EJ251 (2.5L SOHC)

Engine Code Optional:

EJ255 (2.5L Turbocharged DOHC - XT model, though less common in 2001 MY for some markets)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV, known for its all-wheel-drive capability and practicality.

Key Competitors 2001:

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

Forester Selling Points:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Subaru's signature boxer engine for a lower center of gravity, versatile cargo space, excellent visibility, and robust build quality.

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and Subaru enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair of their 2001 Forester.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000+ (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of EJ251 (and potentially EJ255) engines, including cooling system, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, and engine mechanical components.

Transmission:

Coverage for both Automatic Transmission (4-speed) and Manual Transmission (5-speed) systems, including operation, diagnosis, overhaul, and fluid specifications.

Body And Electrical:

Extensive coverage of body components, interior trim, exterior panels, lighting, power accessories (windows, locks), HVAC system, and complete vehicle wiring diagrams.

Chassis And Suspension:

Detailed information on suspension components (struts, springs, control arms), steering system, brake system (ABS diagnostics, component replacement), wheel alignment specifications, and chassis maintenance.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil change procedures, filter replacements, fluid level checks, spark plug replacement, and general tune-up procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for major and minor components, including engine teardown, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, body panel repair, and electrical component troubleshooting.

Depth Of Information:

High. Covers everything from basic maintenance tasks to complex internal engine and transmission repairs, including torque specifications, clearances, and electrical schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Searchable PDF with hyperlinked sections for easy navigation. Optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Print Quality Suitability:

High resolution images and diagrams suitable for printing. Full color schematics where applicable.

Binding Type Equivalent:

Spiral-bound or perfect-bound (typical for professional workshop manuals).

Paper Type Equivalent:

Durable, heavy-weight paper stock (typical for physical manuals).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Flat-Four (Boxer)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Configuration:

SOHC (Single Overhead Cam), 16 Valves

Horsepower Ej251:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm (approximate)

Torque Ej251:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)

Fuel Induction:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

ECU Type:

Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) compatible ECU

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

4-Speed Automatic

Transmission Type Opt:

5-Speed Manual

AWD System Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (standard on all models for this year).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

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

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil (Subaru Genuine Gear Oil recommended)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

175.2 inches (4450 mm)

Width:

67.5 inches (1715 mm)

Height:

63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Passenger Volume:

98.0 cubic feet (approximate)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

31.5 cubic feet (approximate)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

64.6 cubic feet (approximate)

Curb Weight Automatic:

3250 lbs (approximate)

Curb Weight Manual:

3175 lbs (approximate)

Towing Capacity:

2400 lbs (with proper trailer brakes and equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

Not rated for MY2001, but general Subaru safety reputation is strong.

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags, check specific vehicle)

Active Safety Standard:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes (ABS optional/standard on higher trims).

Passive Safety Standard:

Dual front airbags, 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners, crumple zones.

Optional Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Front side-impact airbags.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player (often with optional cassette or 6-disc changer). Speaker configurations vary by trim level.

Display:

Basic digital clock and radio display. No integrated navigation or advanced displays.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims, electronically controlled.

ABS:

Optional on lower trims, standard on Limited/Premium trims. Covered in the brake section.

Auxiliary Input:

No factory auxiliary input for modern devices. Aftermarket solutions available.

Usb:

No factory USB ports.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe driving conditions) or 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving conditions). Check owner's manual for specific recommendation.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

NGK PFR5B or equivalent, every 60,000 miles.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial: Interference engine. Replace every 105,000 miles or 7 years. Failure will cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH, certified for energy conserving. Subaru Genuine Synthetic Oil recommended.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Head Gaskets:

While more prevalent in EJ25D (DOHC) engines, the EJ251 (SOHC) can still experience head gasket leaks, especially with age and mileage. The manual will detail diagnosis and repair procedures.

Catalytic Converter:

Can sometimes become clogged or fail, impacting performance and emissions. Manual covers diagnosis.

Evaporative Emissions System:

Issues with the EVAP system can lead to 'check engine' lights and emissions failures. The manual provides diagrams and troubleshooting steps.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Company History:

Founded in 1953, Subaru (part of Subaru Corporation, formerly Fuji Heavy Industries) has a legacy of building reliable vehicles, often with a focus on AWD and boxer engines.

Forester First Generation:

Introduced in 1997 as a compact crossover SUV with Subaru's signature AWD and boxer engine, blending the utility of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a car.

Forester Second Generation Debut:

The 2001 model year marks the debut of the second generation (SF series facelift and transition to SG chassis in some markets, though the 2001 model often retains SF designation depending on region). Key changes included updated styling, improved interior, and enhanced safety features.

Assembly Location:

Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Kbb Best Resale Value:

Subaru models, including the Forester, have historically been recognized by Kelley Blue Book for strong resale value.

IIHS Top Safety Picks Legacy:

While specific ratings for MY2001 may vary, Subaru has a consistent track record with the IIHS for safety.

Emissions Certifications:

Meets EPA and California ARB emissions standards for its model year. Manual details emissions control systems.