🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Generation:

First Generation (SF series)

Chassis Codes:

SF5, SF9

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover

Usp:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), robust build, practicality, versatility

Key Competitors:

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

Platform:

Subaru Impreza platform

Drivetrain:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all models

Ground Clearance:

Above average for its class, enhancing off-road capability and all-weather confidence

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002

Regions Covered:

Global (specific regional variations may apply, manual aims for comprehensive coverage)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+ (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals covering multiple years and variants)

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine Mechanical (EJ251, EJ252, EJ201, EJ202, EJ253, EJ254, EJ255 - Naturally Aspirated & Turbocharged), Engine Control System (ECU, sensors, actuators), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Emissions Control

Transmission:

Manual Transmission (5-speed), Automatic Transmission (4-speed), Drivetrain (All-Wheel Drive System - AWD, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints)

Brakes:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes (and Drum Brakes on some earlier models), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Parking Brake System

Steering:

Power Steering System, Steering Column, Steering Gear Assembly

Suspension:

Front Suspension (MacPherson Struts), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Wheel Alignment

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System (Starter), Ignition System, Lighting System (Headlights, Tail Lights, Interior Lights), Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Instrument Cluster, Gauges, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Audio System, Wiper/Washer System, Horn

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Glass, Seals, Interior Trim, Seats, Roof Rack System

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System, Components (Compressor, Condenser, Evaporator, Blower Motor), Refrigerant, Controls

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Sensor Data, Troubleshooting Flowcharts

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Fuel, Cabin), Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Transmission Fluid Change, Differential Fluid Change, Belt Inspection/Replacement, Tire Rotation/Balancing

Repair:

Engine Overhaul (minor/major), Cylinder Head Gasket Replacement, Timing Belt/Chain Replacement, Turbocharger Rebuild/Replacement, Transmission Rebuild/Replacement, Clutch Replacement, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement (struts, ball joints, bushings), CV Axle Replacement, Alternator/Starter Replacement, Radiator/Water Pump Replacement, Fuel Pump/Injector Replacement, HVAC Component Repair/Replacement

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Specifications:

Torque specifications, fluid capacities, clearances, diagnostic parameters

Wiring:

Complete Electrical Schematics and Wiring Diagrams for all systems

Depth:

Comprehensive (covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all major vehicle systems)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (typically, for ease of navigation)

Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Na:

EJ251, EJ252, EJ253, EJ254 (2.5L Boxer 4-cylinder)

Engine Code Turbo:

EJ201, EJ202 (2.0L Boxer 4-cylinder Turbocharged - JDM/other markets), EJ255 (2.5L Boxer 4-cylinder Turbocharged - later models, overlaps with SG generation)

Horsepower 2.5L:

Approx. 165-175 hp (depending on year and specific engine variant)

Torque 2.5L:

Approx. 162-170 lb-ft (depending on year and specific engine variant)

Horsepower 2.0L Turbo:

Approx. 210-250 hp (depending on market and specific variant)

Torque 2.0L Turbo:

Approx. 200-250 lb-ft (depending on market and specific variant)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

ECU Type:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) with various sensor inputs

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Base:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate clutch (automatic)

Manual Gearbox Oil:

Subaru Extra-S GL-5 75W-90 or equivalent API GL-5 gear oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,450-4,565 mm (175.2-179.7 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,735-1,765 mm (68.3-69.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,590-1,630 mm (62.6-64.2 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,500-2,510 mm (98.4-98.8 in)

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 365-380 liters (12.9-13.4 cu ft) with rear seats up

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,400-1,550 kg (3,086-3,417 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Tire Sizes:

Commonly 205/70R15, 215/60R16, 225/60R17 (depending on trim and year)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4/5 Stars (for driver/passenger respectively, typical for the era)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags, if available)

ABS:

Available/Standard depending on trim and year

Traction Control:

Available on some models/trims

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Front Airbags (Standard); Side Airbags and Curtain Airbags available on select higher trims/later models

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player with 4-6 speakers. Upgrades common. Manual covers wiring and basic troubleshooting.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

ABS:

Available/Standard

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors (standard on many trims)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or 1-2 years

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or 1-2 years (if equipped)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type - platinum/iridium)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000-105,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical maintenance item for interference engines)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30, API SJ or higher

Coolant Type:

Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Head Gasket Leaks:

Common issue on EJ25 engines, particularly early phase 1 models. Manual will detail replacement procedures.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ25 engines can consume oil; manual will provide diagnostic steps.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings and ball joints can wear over time; manual covers replacement and alignment.

Automatic Transmission Issues:

Less common, but torque converter lock-up issues can occur; manual provides diagnostics.

📚 Vehicle History

Philosophy:

Subaru's core philosophy of building safe, reliable, and capable vehicles, particularly emphasizing their AWD expertise.

Introduction Year:

1997 (globally), 1998 (North America)

Generation Name:

First Generation (SF)

Design Inspiration:

Developed from the Subaru Impreza platform, offering a higher ride height and wagon body style for increased utility.

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan (Ota, Gunma Prefecture)

Production Period:

1997-2002

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Alog:

Car and Driver's '10 Best Trucks' list multiple times during this generation (often cited for its AWD capability and utility).

Consumer Reports:

Generally received good ratings for reliability and practicality, although specific model years might have variations.

Safety Certifications:

Meets or exceeds all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) for its production years.