🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Generation:

Second Generation (SG)

Years Covered:

2003, 2004, 2005

Chassis Code:

SG

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Key Competitors:

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

Forester Key Attributes:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, raised ground clearance, wagon-like utility, boxer engine characteristic, good visibility.

Manual Benefit:

Empowers owners and technicians with the detailed knowledge required for accurate diagnosis, efficient repair, and proactive maintenance, reducing reliance on dealerships and improving vehicle longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ253), 2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255)

Transmission Coverage:

4-Speed Automatic (4EAT), 5-Speed Manual

Drivetrain Coverage:

All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD)

Trim Level Coverage:

Base, Premium, XT (Turbocharged)

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, turbocharger system (XT models).

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission overhaul, automatic transmission operation and repair, clutch system, driveshafts, differentials, AWD system.

Chassis Suspension:

Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, wheel bearings, hubs, brake system (front and rear disc brakes, ABS).

Electrical Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, starting system, charging system, lighting system, instrument panel, body control modules, infotainment system, SRS (airbag) system.

Body Interior:

Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, door mechanisms, glass, body panel removal and installation.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation, electrical circuit testing.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine timing procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring schematics, fluid capacities and types, measurement specifications.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs and diagnostics for all major vehicle systems. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Searchable PDF for easy navigation and keyword identification. High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Print Quality Suitability:

Optimized for printing, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual for hands-on work.

Binding Type For Printed:

N/A (Digital Download), but would typically be spiral-bound or perfect-bound for printed versions.

Paper Type For Printed:

N/A (Digital Download), but professional workshop manuals often use durable, coated paper to withstand workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1 Type:

Naturally Aspirated Boxer

Engine Option 1 Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2498cc)

Engine Option 1 Code:

EJ253

Engine Option 1 Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Engine Option 1 Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Engine Option 1 Horsepower:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Engine Option 1 Torque:

166 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Engine Option 2 Type:

Turbocharged Boxer

Engine Option 2 Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457cc)

Engine Option 2 Code:

EJ255

Engine Option 2 Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Engine Option 2 Compression Ratio:

8.4:1

Engine Option 2 Horsepower:

210 hp @ 5600 rpm

Engine Option 2 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (91 octane recommended for XT models).

ECU Type:

Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) compatible ECU.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) with Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

AWD System Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (provides a front-to-rear torque split and differential action based on load transfer).

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

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

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate, diaphragm spring.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Length:

177.4 inches (4506 mm)

Width:

69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

66.1 inches (1679 mm) (without roof rails)

Front Headroom:

41.0 inches (1041 mm)

Rear Headroom:

39.7 inches (1008 mm)

Front Legroom:

43.1 inches (1095 mm)

Rear Legroom:

33.5 inches (851 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

32.1 cubic feet (909 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

67.7 cubic feet (1917 liters)

Curb Weight Base Model:

3,109 lbs (1410 kg)

Curb Weight Xt Model:

3,417 lbs (1550 kg)

Towing Capacity:

2,400 lbs (1089 kg) (with proper towing equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

5-Star (Front and Rear Passengers)

IIHS Front Crashworthiness:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Crashworthiness:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on automatic models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional/standard on higher trims).

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, 3-point rear seat belts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio with subwoofer, optional in-dash CD changer.

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed GPS navigation system available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

All Wheel Drive System:

Symmetrical AWD is a core technological feature, providing enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.

Power Outlets:

12V auxiliary power outlets in the dashboard and cargo area.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe driving conditions) or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal driving conditions), consult manual for specifics.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, depending on driving environment.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, depending on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Platinum: 60,000 miles. Iridium: 100,000 miles (check original spec).

Timing Belt Replacement:

105,000 miles or 105 months (crucial for EJ253; XT models use a timing chain).

Engine Oil Type And Capacity:

5W-30 (API SG, SH, SJ, SL or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3); 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter for 2.5L NA; 5.5 US quarts (5.2 liters) for 2.5L Turbo.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Genuine Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life OAT/HOAT coolant. Capacity approx. 7.4 US quarts (7.0 liters).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Head Gasket Leaks:

Common on EJ253 engines, especially in earlier models. Manual provides diagnostic and replacement procedures.

Turbocharger Issues Xt Models:

Potential for turbocharger failure due to oil starvation or heat. Proper maintenance and warm-up/cool-down procedures are key.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ engines may exhibit higher oil consumption; the manual details how to check oil levels and potential causes.

Catalytic Converter Issues:

Can become clogged over time, affecting performance and emissions. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru History:

Subaru, the automotive division of Subaru Corporation, has a long history rooted in aviation engineering, which influences their horizontally opposed boxer engine designs and focus on all-wheel-drive technology.

Forester First Generation:

The Subaru Forester was first introduced in 1997 as a compact crossover SUV, blending the ride height and utility of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a car.

Forester Second Generation Introduction:

The second generation (SG) debuted for the 2003 model year, featuring a more refined exterior design, improved interior quality, and updated powertrains, including the introduction of the turbocharged XT model.

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma, Japan

Production Years For Sg Chassis:

2002-2008 (model years 2003-2008 in North America).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Subaru Forester Award Example 1:

Car and Driver's '10Best Trucks' lists (various years, including this generation).

Subaru Forester Award Example 2:

Recognized for its utility and all-wheel-drive capability by automotive journalists.

Iiihs Roof Strength Rating:

Good (for vehicles tested in this generation)