🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Model Years:

2012, 2013

Chassis Code:

SJ

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Subaru Forester is a compact crossover SUV renowned for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practicality, and go-anywhere capability. It competes with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape.

Advantage:

The 2012-2013 Forester models offer a robust platform with a focus on off-road prowess and stability, often outperforming rivals in adverse weather conditions and light off-roading due to standard AWD and higher ground clearance.

Distinctive Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines, excellent visibility, spacious interior, good cargo capacity, and Subaru's reputation for durability and safety.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Fuel System, Exhaust System

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic & ABS), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Battery & Charging System, Ignition System, Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Entertainment System, HVAC Control System

Body:

Body & Frame, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts)

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replacements

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation, Electrical System Diagnostics, Component Testing

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair/Replacement, Body Panel Repair

Installation:

Component Installation & Removal Procedures (e.g., Engine, Transmission, Suspension parts, Body panels)

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Digital PDF, searchable text, high-resolution images and diagrams, printable.

Quality:

Professionally scanned factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 2 5I:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated DOHC EJ253 Boxer 4-Cylinder

Engine Type 2 5Xt:

2.5L Turbocharged DOHC EJ255 Boxer 4-Cylinder (for XT trims)

Horsepower 2 5I:

170 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque 2 5I:

174 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm

Horsepower 2 5Xt:

224 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque 2 5Xt:

226 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (91+ recommended for Turbo)

ECU:

Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) or compatible OBD-II scanner

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 2 5I:

5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Transmission 2 5I Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT) with adaptive control

Transmission 2 5Xt:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (AT) with paddle shifters (VDC-tuned)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all trims)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Extra Synchro-Clean (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.5 inches (4560 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

65.2 inches (1655 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.0 inches (2615 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.7 inches (221 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

34.4 cu ft (974 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

70.7 cu ft (2002 liters)

Curb Weight 2 5I Manual:

3330 lbs (1510 kg)

Curb Weight 2 5I Automatic:

3395 lbs (1540 kg)

Curb Weight 2 5Xt Automatic:

3535 lbs (1603 kg)

Towing Capacity:

2400 lbs (1089 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

Wheel Size Standard:

17 inches

Tire Size Standard:

225/60R17

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Crash Test Rating 2012:

Good in front, side, rear impact tests; Acceptable in roof strength.

IIHS Crash Test Rating 2013:

Top Safety Pick (Good in front, side, rear impact tests, and front crash prevention technology - if equipped).

NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (for models equipped with specific safety features)

Active Safety Systems:

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA)

Passive Safety Systems:

Advanced Frontal Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags, Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags, Whiplash Protection Front Seats, Three-Point Seatbelts with Pretensioners, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) System

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models typically feature a 4-speaker audio system with CD player, auxiliary input, and optional satellite radio. Higher trims may offer a 6-speaker system with a larger LCD display and Bluetooth connectivity.

Driver Assistance Features:

Standard VDC stability control. Optional features may include rearview camera, Hill Start Assist, and HID headlights on premium trims.

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary audio input jack standard. Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming available on select trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months for severe driving conditions; 7,500 miles or 12 months for normal driving (check specific oil type and climate).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months.

Spark Plug Replacement 2 5I:

Every 60,000 miles (iridium type).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Not applicable (These engines use a timing chain).

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher). Check owner's manual for specific viscosity in extreme temperatures.

Coolant Spec:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant (50/50 mixture with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Head Gasket Concern:

While less prevalent than in earlier generations, Subaru head gasket issues can still occur, especially on high-mileage or poorly maintained naturally aspirated EJ engines. The manual provides procedures for diagnosis and replacement.

Catalytic Converter Issues:

Potential for catalytic converter failure due to internal component breakdown or misfires. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.

Automatic Transmission Behavior:

Some owners report occasional harsh shifts or hesitant engagement with the 4-speed automatic transmission. The manual details transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics and fluid flush procedures.

Rear Wheel Bearing Wear:

Rear wheel bearings can experience premature wear. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing reliable and capable vehicles, particularly known for its four-wheel-drive technology and horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines, originating from aircraft manufacturing.

Forester Generation Timeline:

The 2012-2013 models represent the third generation (SH chassis) of the Subaru Forester, which debuted for the 2009 model year. This generation saw a redesign with a more conventional SUV-like profile, improved interior space, and updated powertrains.

Manufacturing Location:

Ota, Gunma, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

The 2013 Subaru Forester was recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick, highlighting its strong performance in crash tests.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Subaru vehicles consistently receive good to excellent ratings for reliability and owner satisfaction from publications like Consumer Reports, reflecting their robust engineering.