🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Year: 2004 Market: USDM (United States Domestic Market) 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: DIY enthusiasts, experienced mechanics, Subaru owners Value Proposition: Inexpensive way to maintain and repair vehicle, avoids costly mechanic fees Competitive Analysis Alternatives: Official Subaru service manuals (often more expensive and harder to find for older models), general auto repair books (less specific) Key Features Ease Of Use: Easy-to-read text, clear numbered instructions, helpful notes, cautions, and warnings Accessibility: Downloadable to any PC or Mac, accessible on multiple devices 📋 Manual Details Coverage Manual Type: Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual Language: English Format: PDF Digital Features: Searchable text, printable pages, zoomable diagrams 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered General Information: Vehicle identification, specifications, general maintenance practices Service Information: Diagnostic procedures, torque specifications, tightening sequences, special tools Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, timing belt/chain Engine Controls: Engine control module (ECM) operation, sensors, actuators, fuel injection system, ignition system Emission Controls: Evaporative emission control (EVAP), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), catalytic converter system Fuel System: Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank, evaporative emissions Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan operation Starting And Charging: Starter motor, battery, alternator, wiring diagrams Ignition System: Spark plugs, ignition coils, timing, diagnostic procedures Transmission Automatic: Component identification, operation, overhaul procedures, valve body, torque converter Transmission Manual: Component identification, operation, overhaul procedures, clutch Driveline: Front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, wheel bearings Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment specifications Steering: Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, alignment Brakes: Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic system, calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake, ABS Electrical: Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, power distribution, lighting systems, audio systems, instrument cluster Body Interior Exterior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, HVAC system, climate control HVAC: Air conditioning system, heating system, blower motor, refrigerant handling, diagnostic procedures Instrumentation And Warning Systems: Gauges, warning lights, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication, tire rotations Troubleshooting: System diagnostics, identifying common problems, step-by-step troubleshooting guides Repair: Component replacement, assembly, disassembly, adjustments, calibrations Diagnostics: Electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics, HVAC diagnostics Tune Up: Spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment, fuel system cleaning Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete rebuilds Illustrations: Hundreds of photos, detailed diagrams, exploded views Instructions: Step-by-step instructions, numbered procedures, clear explanations 📊 Manual Specifications File Details File Type: PDF Requirements: PDF Reader (Adobe Acrobat Reader recommended) Print Quality Printability: All pages are printable Diagram Clarity: Top quality diagrams, enlarged inset views for detailed parts examination Binding Type Binding: Digital (no physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type: Not applicable (digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2457 cc) Engine Code: EJ253 (commonly found in this generation) Performance Horsepower: Approximately 165 hp @ 5600 rpm (USDM specifications) Torque: Approximately 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (USDM specifications) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Port Injection) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended) Maintenance Notes Timing Belt Replacement Interval: Typically every 105,000 miles or 105 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact procedure and torque specs. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual Transmission (TY754) Optional Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT - Electronic Automatic Transmission) Features Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Maintenance Manual Transmission Fluid Type: GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (Subaru Genuine or equivalent) Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approximately 179.5 inches Width: Approximately 69.7 inches Height: Approximately 63.0 inches Wheelbase: Approximately 101.4 inches Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3100 - 3300 lbs (depending on transmission and trim) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 5-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (2004 model year) IIHS Side Impact: Good (2004 model year) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Available (depending on trim and option packages) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional on some trims) Seatbelts: 3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/CD player with available premium audio system. Some models may have satellite radio capability. Speakers: Typically 4 or 6 speaker system. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or available depending on trim level. Connectivity Power Outlets: 12V power outlets for accessories. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil and filter. Refer to manual for specific severe duty conditions. Engine Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions. Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles or as needed. Spark Plug Replacement: Typically every 60,000 miles (iridium type). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity:...
GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (Subaru Genuine or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approximately 179.5 inches
Width:
Approximately 69.7 inches
Height:
Approximately 63.0 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 101.4 inches
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3100 - 3300 lbs (depending on transmission and trim)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (2004 model year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2004 model year)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available (depending on trim and option packages)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional on some trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with available premium audio system. Some models may have satellite radio capability.
Speakers:
Typically 4 or 6 speaker system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or available depending on trim level.
Connectivity
Power Outlets:
12V power outlets for accessories.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil and filter. Refer to manual for specific severe duty conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles (iridium type).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change (for 2.5L engine).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (API SG, SH, SJ, SL or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in some earlier Subaru models, some EJ25 engines can develop coolant leaks from the head gaskets over time. Regular inspection is recommended.
Cv Joint Boots:
Torn CV joint boots can lead to premature wear of the CV joints. Check for grease leakage or cracking of the boots.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Rear wheel bearings can be a wear item and may develop noise over time. The manual provides diagnostic procedures.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Philosophy:
Known for horizontally-opposed engines (Boxer), Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and durability.
Model Evolution
Forester Generation:
Second Generation (SG chassis, 2003-2008)
2004 Updates:
Minor styling updates, new optional safety features, revised suspension tuning for improved ride comfort.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Kbb Rating:
KBB.com often rates the Forester highly for its AWD capability and practicality.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports typically provides reliability ratings and road test results, which can be consulted for general model trends.