🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Generation:

SF

Years Covered:

1999-2002

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Subaru Forester in this generation carved out a niche as a practical, capable compact SUV with standard All-Wheel Drive, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking all-weather capability in a versatile package.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Xterra, differentiating itself with its wagon-like driving dynamics combined with SUV utility and Subaru's renowned AWD system.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, elevated ground clearance for light off-roading, comfortable ride, practical interior space, and durable Boxer engines.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All systems, including engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical, HVAC, body, interior, and diagnostics.

Page Count:

Not specified, but described as 'full professional quality in depth'.

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual (Download)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (Compatible with PC, MAC, Tablets & Smartphones)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed information on EJ25 SOHC and DOHC variants, including fuel injection, ignition, emissions, cooling, lubrication, and overhaul procedures.

Transmission:

Coverage for 4-speed automatic (4EAT) and 5-speed manual transmissions, including operation, maintenance, and repair.

Drivetrain:

Focus on Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, including front and rear differentials, driveshafts, and hub assemblies.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, including struts, springs, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system components, steering rack, tie rods, and wheel alignment.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS operation, hydraulic system, and component replacement.

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, battery, fuses, relays, and accessory circuits.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, climate control operation, and component servicing.

Body:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, and seals.

Interior:

Seating, dashboard, trim panels, airbags, and interior lighting.

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and troubleshooting procedures.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug service, and brake pad replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems.

Repair:

Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment, from minor repairs to major overhauls.

Rebuilds:

Comprehensive procedures for engine and transmission rebuilding, including specifications and tolerances.

Diagnostics Procedures:

Specific diagnostic routines for various fault conditions, utilizing OBD-II data and multimeter testing.

Technical Depth:

In-depth, professional-level technical information suitable for home mechanics and professional technicians alike. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (typically, for digital downloads), ensuring broad compatibility and searchability.

Print Quality:

Designed for high-quality printing if desired by the user, with clear diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ25

Engine Type:

Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Valve Configuration:

SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) and DOHC (Double Overhead Cam) variants exist.

Horsepower Sohc:

Approximately 165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (SOHC)

Torque Sohc:

Approximately 166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (SOHC)

Horsepower DOHc:

Approximately 175 hp @ 5,600 rpm (DOHC)

Torque DOHc:

Approximately 177 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (DOHC)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (Standard on some trims)

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Electronic Control (4EAT) (Optional/Standard on some trims)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Includes AWD system with variable torque distribution and 'Snow' mode for improved traction in slippery conditions.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 176.6 inches (4485 mm)

Width:

Approximately 67.9 inches (1725 mm)

Height:

Approximately 63.4 inches (1610 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 103.0 inches (2615 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 7.7 inches (196 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,100 - 3,300 lbs (1406 - 1497 kg), depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4 out of 5 stars (driver and passenger)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (for earlier models, improvements made over the generation)

Active Safety:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced traction and stability.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models typically featured a single-DIN or double-DIN aftermarket-compatible radio. Higher trims might have offered premium audio systems with CD players.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was available on most models. Traction control was not a common feature in this generation.

Connectivity:

No integrated Bluetooth or advanced connectivity features. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (using conventional oil), or 7,500 miles or 6 months (using synthetic oil).

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months (if equipped).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).

Timing Belt:

Crucial: Replace every 90,000 - 105,000 miles or 7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30. API Service Classification: SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3. (Consult manual for specific synth vs. conventional recommendations).

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid. Check dipstick for specific fluid type.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent.

Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil for front and rear differentials.

Head Gaskets:

A common issue in EJ25 engines, particularly early models, leading to coolant leaks or internal coolant contamination. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Crankshaft Bearing Failure:

Less common but significant failure in some EJ25 engines. The manual covers engine teardown and inspection for bearing wear.

Timing Belt Tensioner:

Tensioner failure can lead to timing belt slippage or breakage. Regular inspection and timely replacement are crucial.

Evaporative Emissions System:

Issues with the EVAP system, such as charcoal canister problems or leaks, can trigger check engine lights. The manual provides diagnostic trees.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation, has a long history of producing reliable vehicles, particularly known for its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive and horizontally opposed Boxer engines.

Model Evolution:

The first generation (SF) Forester was introduced in 1997 globally and redesigned for the 1998 model year. This 1999-2002 period represents the core of the first generation, known for its distinctive styling and practical utility.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Gunma, Japan, and later in North America (Lafayette, Indiana) for the US market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Publications:

While specific awards for the 1999-2002 models are not prominently cited, Subaru Foresters have consistently been praised by automotive publications for their all-weather capability, practicality, and value.

Kl Williams Reliability Rating:

While specific ratings for this era vary, Subaru's overall reputation for reliability is strong, though head gasket issues in the EJ25 are a known caveat addressed in the manual.