🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2012

Chassis Code:

SH Series

Engine Codes:

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

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2012 Subaru Forester is positioned as a compact crossover SUV with a strong emphasis on all-wheel-drive capability, safety, and practical utility. It competes in a segment with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5.

Competitive Advantage:

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is a key differentiator, offering superior traction and stability in various weather conditions compared to many front-wheel-drive biased competitors. The Boxer engine also contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer engine, high ground clearance, excellent visibility, spacious interior, strong safety ratings.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All systems and components of the 2012 Subaru Forester, including engine, transmission, drivetrain, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical, HVAC, body, and chassis.

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact count varies based on specific download package but signifies a comprehensive document).

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual (Factory Service Manual Equivalent)

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Downloadable - User dependent)

Paper Type:

N/A (Downloadable - User dependent)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, intake system, exhaust system, ignition system, engine control system (ECU), emissions control.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission (4-speed), all-wheel drive system, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints.

Brake Suspension Steering:

Front and rear brakes (disc), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake, power steering, suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, power distribution, body control module (BCM), instrument cluster, infotainment system.

HVAC Body Chassis:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis components, frame repair, torque specifications for body fasteners.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, tire rotation.

Repair Procedures:

Engine teardown and reassembly, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper repair, power steering pump replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, exhaust system repair.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, common fault codes (DTCs) and their meanings, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic procedures using multimeters and oscilloscopes.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications for professionals.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variant 1:

2.5L (2498cc) Naturally Aspirated EJ253 Boxer-4

Engine Variant 2:

2.5L (2457cc) Turbocharged EJ255 Boxer-4 (Forester XT)

Horsepower Na:

170 hp @ 5,800 rpm

Torque Na:

174 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm

Horsepower Turbo:

224 hp @ 5,200 rpm (approx.)

Torque Turbo:

226 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, 91 octane recommended for Turbo)

ECU Type:

Hitachi or Denso ECU (specifics vary)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Na:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

Transmission Type Turbo:

5-speed Manual Transmission or 4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Variable torque distribution on automatic, direct coupling on manual).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid, check manual for exact spec).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

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

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,560 mm (179.5 in)

Width:

1,780 mm (70.1 in)

Height:

1,670 mm (65.7 in) (approx., varies with roof rails)

Wheelbase:

2,630 mm (103.5 in)

Ground Clearance:

8.1 inches (206 mm)

Passenger Volume:

96.5 cu ft (approx.)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

34.4 cu ft (approx.)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

68.3 cu ft (approx.)

Curb Weight Na Auto:

1,555 kg (3,428 lbs)

Curb Weight Xt Manual:

1,595 kg (3,516 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

Wheel Size Standard:

17-inch Alloy Wheels

Tire Size Standard:

225/60R17

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star Rating

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-Star Rating

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Ebd:

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Vsc:

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags Front:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Front side-impact airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Side-curtain airbags (front and rear)

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Standard infotainment system typically includes a 6-speaker audio system, AM/FM stereo, CD player, and auxiliary audio input. Optional upgrades may include Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and a touchscreen display with navigation.

Driver Assistance Features:

Rearview camera (optional on some trims), ABS, VSC, Traction Control. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist were standard or widely available on this model year.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming were optional on higher trims. USB ports for charging and media playback may also be present.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe conditions may require more frequent changes.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement Na:

Every 105,000 miles (169,000 km) for Iridium-tipped spark plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for severe use, or refer to manual for specific guidance.

Differential Fluid Change Front Rear:

Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as per manual.

Engine Oil Capacity Na:

4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter (approx. for EJ253).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (preferred for fuel economy and cold weather performance).

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent. Do not mix with other colors.

Known Issues Head Gaskets:

While later generations were more prone, some earlier EJ25 engines can experience head gasket leaks. The 2012 model's EJ253 generally has better head gasket durability than older iterations.

Known Issues Oil Consumption:

Some owners report oil consumption. Regular checks and maintaining correct oil level are crucial.

Known Issues Transmission Shifts:

Occasional reports of rough shifting in the automatic transmission, often resolved by fluid flush and fill or TCM reflash.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history of producing reliable and capable vehicles, with a particular reputation for its all-wheel-drive technology and commitment to safety.

Model Evolution Forester:

The Forester was first introduced in 1997. The 2012 model represents the third generation (SH Series), which debuted in 2008 and received a facelift for the 2011 model year, bringing updated styling and features. This generation saw a shift towards a more car-like crossover SUV design while retaining its rugged capability.

Production Location:

Gunma Prefecture, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Award:

Named an IIHS Top Safety Pick for its excellent crash test performance.

Consumer Reports Rating:

Generally received good to excellent ratings for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction from publications like Consumer Reports, especially for its AWD capability and safety.

Certification:

Meets all relevant US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and EPA emissions standards for its model year.