🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2007

Chassis Code:

SG

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Key Differentiators:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, boxer engine configuration, practical and versatile interior, good visibility, reputation for safety and durability.

Direct Competitors 2007:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Rogue.

Vehicle Focus:

Balancing passenger car comfort with light off-road capability and all-weather traction.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to perform all necessary maintenance and repairs, saving time and money, and ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Options Covered:

2.5L naturally aspirated EJ253, 2.5L turbocharged EJ255 (XT models)

Transmission Types Covered:

5-speed manual transmission (TZ1C), 4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT)

Drivetrain Covered:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Workshop Repair and Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, often printable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block assembly, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery system (naturally aspirated and turbocharged), exhaust system, emission controls.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting and charging system, ECU operation, sensor diagnostics (MAP, MAF, TPS, O2, Crank, Cam), ignition coils, fuel injectors.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearshift mechanism, transmission overhaul, component identification, troubleshooting.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control system, transmission control module (TCM), fluid types and capacities, troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, propeller shaft, wheel bearings, AWD system operation and diagnosis.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, bushings), power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, fluid), alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnostics, ABS system operation, brake fluid types and bleeding procedures, brake pad and rotor replacement, parking brake system.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, lighting system, power windows, central locking, wipers, horn, battery and charging system, instrument cluster, ECU pinouts.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis lubrication points, rust prevention.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system service, refrigerant types, blower motor, heater core, climate control system diagnostics.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnosis and replacement procedures, seat belt mechanisms.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flush and replacement, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid changes, differential fluid changes, lubrication services.

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, alternator replacement, starter replacement, radiator replacement, fuel pump replacement, clutch replacement, wheel bearing replacement.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic charts for common symptoms, electrical system troubleshooting flowcharts, engine performance issues diagnosis.

Specifications And Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine specifications (bore, stroke, compression ratio), fluid capacities, electrical component data, alignment settings, tire pressure recommendations.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of Subaru-specific or recommended special tools for various repair and maintenance procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Typically a high-resolution, searchable PDF document. May include hyperlinked table of contents and bookmarks for easy navigation.

Quality:

Designed for clarity with sharp text and diagrams. If printed, it can be reproduced on standard office printers.

Binding:

N/A (for digital format); if physical, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability.

Paper Type:

N/A (for digital format); if physical, often printed on durable, semi-gloss paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ253

Description 1:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated SOHC Boxer-4

Horsepower 1:

173 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 1:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery 1:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Code 2:

EJ255

Description 2:

2.5L Turbocharged DOHC Boxer-4 (Forester XT)

Horsepower 2:

224 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque 2:

235 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery 2:

Sequential Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Turbocharger

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane (Naturally Aspirated), 91 Octane (Turbocharged XT models)

Compression Ratio Ej253:

9.7:1

Compression Ratio Ej255:

8.4:1

🔧 Transmission

Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Code Standard:

TZ1C

Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Code Optional:

4EAT

Drivetrain Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for both transmission types.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

179.9 inches (4570 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

66.1 inches (1680 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

38.7 cu ft (1096 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

67.7 cu ft (1917 L)

Curb Weight Approx:

3300-3600 lbs (1497-1633 kg)

Towing Capacity:

2400 lbs (1089 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5-star

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5-star

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

5-star

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

5-star

IIHS Front Crash Rating:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good

IIHS Roof Strength Rating:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags (standard on most trims).

Seat Belts:

3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio with subwoofer. Limited connectivity by modern standards (auxiliary input might be present on some models).

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

All Wheel Drive:

Core technology: Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability.

Bluetooth:

Not typically factory-equipped for audio streaming or hands-free calling in 2007 models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service) - consult manual for exact details based on driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed or every 15,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace annually or as needed.

Spark Plugs:

Platinum/Iridium plugs: 60,000 miles (check manual for exact type and interval).

Transmission Fluid Atf:

Check condition regularly, change every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Change every 30,000-60,000 miles.

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 30,000 miles or 2 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years thereafter.

Engine Oil Type:

5W-30 Synthetic (or 10W-30 if temperatures are consistently above 80°F).

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF HP (or Dexron III equivalent).

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-5).

Differential Fluid Type:

75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-5).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Subaru Power Steering Fluid or ATF Dexron III.

Coolant Type:

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

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than in earlier EJ engines, some EJ253 engines can still experience head gasket leaks. The manual provides procedures for diagnosis and replacement.

Turbocharger Issues Xt:

Turbocharger wear or failure in XT models, often due to oil starvation or heat. Proper maintenance and warm-up/cool-down procedures are critical.

Rear Differential Whine:

Occasional reports of rear differential noise, often related to fluid level or wear. Manual covers inspection and service.

Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifting:

Some 4EAT transmissions may exhibit harsh shifting, potentially related to solenoid issues or fluid degradation. Manual details diagnostic steps.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Origins:

Subaru is a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), known for its pioneering use of the boxer engine and its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, originating in Japan.

Forester Introduction:

The Subaru Forester debuted in 1997, blending wagon-like driving dynamics with the higher ground clearance and AWD capability of an SUV.

Second Generation:

The 2007 model year falls within the second generation (SF/SG chassis, 1998-2008), with the SG chassis receiving a significant facelift in 2003, which this manual covers.

Production Plants:

Primary production for North American market was in Ota, Gunma, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

The 2007 Forester consistently received 'Good' ratings from the IIHS and high marks from NHTSA, often being recognized for its safety performance.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

While reliability varied by specific model year and component, Subaru generally maintained a good reputation, with detailed diagnostic and repair information being crucial for maintaining it.