🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Forester

Year:

2001-2002

Chassis Code:

SF Series

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Competitors 2001 2002:

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

Drivetrain Standard:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Body Style:

5-Door SUV

Unique Selling Proposition:

Standard AWD, Subaru Boxer Engine, Good Visibility, Practicality

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global, North America

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

All Engine Types and Components (Engine Mechanical, Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel, Ignition, Exhaust, Emission Control, Engine Performance Diagnostics)

Transmission:

All Transmission Types and Components (Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drivetrain, Clutch, Driveshafts, Differentials)

Brakes:

Complete Brake System (Hydraulic Brakes, ABS System, Parking Brake, Brake Calipers, Rotors, Lines, Fluid)

Suspension Steering:

Suspension and Steering Systems (Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Power Steering, Steering Wheel, Steering Gear)

Electrical Electronics:

Complete Electrical System (Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Ignition System, Power Windows, Door Locks, Wipers, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams)

Body Chassis:

Body and Chassis (Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Chassis Components, Structural Repairs)

HVAC:

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

Maintenance:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Tune-Ups

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Comprehensive Diagnostic Procedures, Common Faults and Symptoms, Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Error Code Interpretation

Repair Overhaul:

Step-by-Step Repair and Overhaul Procedures for all Major Systems, Component Removal and Installation, Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Rebuilding

Special Tools:

Identification and Usage of Special Tools Required for Specific Procedures

Depth:

Expert-Level Technical Information, Suitable for Professional Technicians and Enthusiastic DIYers

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Image Resolution:

High Resolution, Crisp Images and Diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital)

Text Search:

Searchable Text Content

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Naturally Aspirated:

EJ253 (2.5L SOHC Flat-4)

Engine Code Turbocharged:

EJ255 (2.5L SOHC Turbocharged - Forester STI/GT models, less common in standard US models of this generation, but covered)

Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Naturally Aspirated:

166 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Horsepower Turbocharged:

210-230 hp (model dependent)

Torque Turbocharged:

240-260 lb-ft (model dependent)

Induction:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Layout:

Boxer (Horizontally Opposed)

Displacement:

2457 cc (2.5 Liters)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

AWD Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Variable Torque Distribution for Auto, Direct for Manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP or Equivalent (Check Manual for Specifics)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 Gear Oil (Check Manual for Specifics)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 175.5 inches

Width:

Approx. 67.9 inches

Height:

Approx. 63.0 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.0 inches

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 31.0 cu ft

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 67.0 cu ft

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100 - 3400 lbs

Towing Capacity:

2400 lbs (with factory tow package)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (2001 Model)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (2001 Model)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

4 Stars (2001 Model)

IIHS Headlight Performance:

Good (2001 Model)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available (Model Dependent)

Airbags Front:

Standard Front Driver and Passenger Airbags

Airbags Side:

Available Side Curtain Airbags (Model Dependent)

Seatbelts:

3-Point Height-Adjustable Seatbelts with Pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM Stereo with CD Player, Optional Cassette Player, 4-6 Speaker Configuration

Cruise Control:

Standard

Aux Input:

Not Standard (Aftermarket solutions common)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 Miles or 3 Months (Severe Duty) / 7,500 Miles or 6 Months (Normal Duty) - Consult Manual for Specifics

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 Miles or as Needed

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 Miles or as Needed

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 60,000-100,000 Miles (depending on plug type)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Not Applicable (Uses a timing chain, but check for belt-driven accessories)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.8 US Quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Type:

5W-30 API SN/SM/SL/SJ or ILSAC GF-5/GF-4/GF-3 (Consult Manual for Exact Specification)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or Equivalent Ethylene Glycol Based

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Head Gaskets:

While not as prevalent as in earlier Subaru models, minor oil leaks from head gaskets can still occur. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Rear Differential:

Periodic inspection of the rear differential for leaks and proper fluid levels is recommended. Manual provides fill and drain procedures.

Rear Wheel Bearings:

Can wear over time and cause noise. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.

HVAC Blower Motor:

Potential for failure, manual details diagnostic steps and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Legacy Roots:

The Forester was originally conceived as a raised wagon variant of the Subaru Legacy. It blended the car-like ride of a wagon with the all-wheel-drive capability and higher ground clearance of an SUV.

First Generation:

The first generation Forester (SF chassis) debuted in 1997 in Japan and 1998 in North America. The 2001-2002 models represent the facelifted version of this first generation, introducing updated styling and features.

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Guide Best Buy:

Awarded 'Best Buy' in the Compact SUV category by Consumer Guide Automotive in 2001 and 2002.

Four Wheel Drive System:

Consistently praised for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system's performance in adverse weather conditions.