🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Model Generation: SF Series (First Generation) Year Range Covered: 1999-2002 Codes Chassis Code: SF5, SF9 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Crossover SUV Target Audience: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, drivers seeking AWD capability in a versatile package Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra Key Features All Wheel Drive: Standard symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (S-AWD) was a defining feature Practicality: Spacious interior, good cargo capacity, raised ride height for light off-road capability Engine Reliability: Boxer engine design known for its low center of gravity and unique character Manual Utility: Essential for owners and independent mechanics to maintain and repair this capable vehicle. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Languages: English Regions Covered: North America, Global (where applicable) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul for EJ25 SOHC and DOHC engines Engine Management: ECU diagnosis, sensor testing, fuel injection system, ignition system Transmission Manual: Service and repair for 5-speed manual transmissions (e.g., TY754) Transmission Automatic: Service and repair for 4-speed automatic transmissions (e.g., TZ103) Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints Suspension: Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, steering system, wheel alignment Brakes: Front vented discs, rear discs or drums, ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic system Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, gauges, power accessories Body And Chassis: Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass, structural components HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair Safety Systems: Airbag system diagnosis and service procedures Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks Troubleshooting: Extensive diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon problems Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems Overhaul: Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, technical data Diagnostics: OBD-II diagnostic codes and interpretation, sensor testing procedures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex diagnostics Diagrams: High-quality, detailed diagrams and illustrations for all procedures Wiring Diagrams: Complete and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all systems 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Searchable text for quick information retrieval Printability: Printable pages for workshop use Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution images and diagrams suitable for printing Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: EJ251 Engine Type 1: 2.5L Naturally Aspirated SOHC EJ251 Boxer-4 Displacement 1: 2457 cc (2.5 Liters) Bore X Stroke 1: 99.5 mm x 79.0 mm Compression Ratio 1: 9.0:1 Horsepower 1: 165 hp @ 5,600 rpm Torque 1: 166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm Engine Code 2 Engine Code 2: EJ252 Engine Type 2: 2.5L Naturally Aspirated DOHC EJ252 Boxer-4 (for some markets, primarily early models or specific trims) Engine Type 2 Engine Type 2: 2.5L Naturally Aspirated DOHC EJ252 Boxer-4 Displacement 2 Displacement 2: 2457 cc (2.5 Liters) Horsepower 2 Horsepower 2: 167 hp @ 5,600 rpm Torque 2 Torque 2: 166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm Performance Redline: 6,000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended) Emissions Controls: Catalytic Converter, EGR system 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Lock-Up Torque Converter Features AWD System Manual: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential AWD System Automatic: Active All-Wheel Drive (requires engine RPM and wheel speed sensor input to manage torque split) Fluid Specs Manual Transmission Fluid: Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4,450 mm (175.2 in) Width: 1,735 mm (68.3 in) Height: 1,580 mm (62.2 in) Wheelbase: 2,630 mm (103.5 in) Ground Clearance: approx. 190 mm (7.5 in) Weights Curb Weight Manual: approx. 1,410 kg (3,108 lbs) Curb Weight Automatic: approx. 1,440 kg (3,175 lbs) Cargo Cargo Volume Seats Up: approx. 330 L (11.6 cu ft) with seats up Cargo Volume Seats Down: approx. 1,950 L (68.9 cu ft) with seats folded 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver Side: Good (Second Generation, but representative for the era) NHTSA Frontal Passenger Side: Good (Second Generation, but representative for the era) Active Features ABS: Available (Anti-lock Braking System) - 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS standard on higher trims/later years Traction Control: Not typically available on this generation Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger front airbags standard Seatbelts: 3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners Child Seat Anchors: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system not standard on this generation 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals...