🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Generation: Second Generation (SG) Years Covered By Manual: 2005-2008 Codes Chassis Code: SG5, SG9 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Crossover SUV Target Audience: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking a versatile AWD vehicle with a reputation for durability. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail (Rogue), Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape. Key Features Symmetrical AWD: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a hallmark of Subaru vehicles, providing superior traction and stability in various conditions. Horizontally Opposed Engine: Boxer (horizontally opposed) engine design for a lower center of gravity, improving handling and stability. Practicality: Spacious interior, good cargo capacity, excellent visibility, and a reputation for practicality and utility. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Regions: Global (North America, Europe, Asia, Australia) Page Count Estimated Page Count: ~2000+ pages (comprehensive estimate based on typical Subaru factory service manuals of this era) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine mechanical (EJ253, EJ255, EJ257, EJ205), engine management (ECU, sensors, actuators), fuel system, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, emissions control Transmission: Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed) diagnosis and repair, driveline, transfer case, differentials Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms), steering system (rack and pinion), power steering Electrical: Complete electrical diagrams, lighting system, charging system, starting system, body electricals, HVAC controls, power accessories, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) Body Chassis: Body panels, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis components, frame structure, doors, windows, sunroof HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement Engine Repair: Engine overhaul, head gasket replacement, piston and ring replacement, valve adjustment, timing belt/chain service Transmission Repair: Clutch replacement, transmission overhaul (manual and automatic), seal replacement, fluid service Brake Service: Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake line replacement, ABS component testing and replacement Suspension Steering Repair: Strut and shock absorber replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack replacement Electrical Diagnostics: Troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, wiring harness repair, battery and alternator testing Body Repair: Panel replacement, door and window regulator repair, bumper repair, interior trim removal and installation Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text for quick information retrieval Print Quality Printability: Printable for physical use in a workshop environment Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Base: EJ253 Engine Description Base: 2.5-liter naturally aspirated flat-four (Boxer) engine Displacement Base: 2457 cc (149.9 cubic inches) Bore X Stroke Base: 99.5 mm x 79.0 mm Compression Ratio Base: 9.7:1 Horsepower Base: 165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (approx.) Torque Base: 166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.) Performance Engine Code Turbo: EJ255 / EJ257 Engine Description Turbo: 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four (Boxer) engine (XT models) Horsepower Turbo: 210-230 hp (XT models, depending on trim/year) Torque Turbo: 235-250 lb-ft (XT models, depending on trim/year) Engine Code 2.0L Turbo: EJ205 (some markets, e.g., Australia/Japan) Engine Description 2.0L Turbo: 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four (Boxer) engine Horsepower 2.0L Turbo: 217 hp @ 5,600 rpm (typical for Forester STi variant) Torque 2.0L Turbo: 240 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm (typical for Forester STi variant) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating: 87 minimum for NA, 91 recommended for Turbocharged models) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (with Sportshift on some models) Features AWD System: Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all models) Manual Gear Ratios: Specific ratios provided in the manual for all gears and final drive. Automatic Transmission Fluid: Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 173.8 inches (4415 mm) Width: 69.9 inches (1775 mm) Height: 63.0 inches (1600 mm) Wheelbase: 103.0 inches (2615 mm) Ground Clearance: 7.7 inches (195 mm) Weights Curb Weight Base: Approx. 3,200 - 3,400 lbs (1450 - 1540 kg) Curb Weight Turbo: Approx. 3,400 - 3,600 lbs (1540 - 1630 kg) Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats: 30.0 cubic feet (850 liters) Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded: 63.0 cubic feet (1785 liters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: 5-Star (Driver and Passenger, 2005-2008 models) IIHS Front Crash Test: Good (for models tested) IIHS Side Impact Test: Good (for models tested) Active Features Traction Control: Standard Traction Control System (TCS) Electronic Stability Control: Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC/VDC...
105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 105 months - CRITICAL for EJ series engines. Manual will detail procedure and inspection intervals.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Check fluid condition regularly, change as per manual schedule (typically around 30,000-60,000 miles or as needed based on usage).
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Check fluid condition regularly, change as per manual schedule (typically around 30,000-60,000 miles or as needed based on usage).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent long-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Known Issues
Head Gasket Leaks:
While less prevalent than earlier generations, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly on naturally aspirated EJ25 engines. The manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ25 engines, especially those with higher mileage, may exhibit increased oil consumption. Proper monitoring and use of recommended oil viscosity are important. Manual details piston ring inspection.
Turbocharger Issues:
For XT models, turbocharger reliability is generally good, but maintenance (oil changes) is critical. Manual covers turbo inspection and replacement.
Cv Joint Wear:
Front CV joints can wear over time, especially under demanding use. Manual provides replacement procedures.
Brake Wear:
Brake pad and rotor wear is typical for any vehicle; manual details wear limits and replacement.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Company Origins:
Subaru (Fuji Heavy Industries) has a long history in aerospace and automotive manufacturing, known for its boxer engines and AWD technology.
Model Evolution
Forester Introduction:
The Subaru Forester was first introduced in 1997 as a compact crossover SUV, blending the utility of an SUV with the driving characteristics of a car.
Second Generation Launch:
The second generation (SG) was launched for the 2003 model year and received a facelift for 2006, including revised styling and powertrain updates for certain markets.
Key Updates Sg Generation:
Increased wheelbase, revised suspension, introduction of turbocharged XT models with higher performance, improved safety features, and updated interior/exterior styling.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly produced in Gunma, Japan. Some assembly may have occurred in other Subaru global facilities.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Insurance Institute For Highway Safety:
Repeatedly recognized by the IIHS for good crash test performance.
Consumer Reports:
Consistently ranked highly by consumer organizations for reliability and practicality.
Ratings
Kbb Ratings:
Often received favorable ratings from Kelley Blue Book for its segment value and utility.