🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Year Range: 2008-2012 Codes Chassis Code: SH (Second Generation) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact SUV / Crossover Usp: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard, Boxer engine, practical utility, strong safety reputation Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5 Key Features Vehicle Appeal: All-weather capability, cargo space, comfortable ride, durable powertrain 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Factory Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (EJ253, EJ255, EJ257), Transmission (4AT, 5MT, 4EAT, 5EAT), Drivetrain (AWD Systems) Chassis: Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, VDC) Electrical: Body Electrical, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, HVAC Controls, Audio Systems, Navigation (if equipped) Body: Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Interior Trim, Glass Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing Repair: Component Removal and Installation, Major Overhauls, System Repairs Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive - from basic inspections to full engine/transmission rebuilds 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Digital (PDF) Print Quality Zoom Capability: High-resolution, allowing detailed zooming for part identification and diagrams Printability: Printable pages for on-demand access without dirt or damage to original source Binding Type Binding Method: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Base: EJ253 (2.5L SOHC NA) Engine Code Turbo: EJ255/EJ257 (2.5L DOHC Turbocharged - Forester XT) Performance Base Engine Hp: 170 hp @ 5,800 rpm (EJ253) Base Engine Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (EJ253) Turbo Engine Hp: 224-230 hp @ 5,200 rpm (EJ255 - depending on sub-model) Turbo Engine Torque: 235-235 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm (EJ255) Turbo Engine Hp Xt: 263 hp @ 5,200 rpm (EJ257 - Forester XT) Turbo Engine Torque Xt: 246 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm (EJ257) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane recommended, 91+ for Turbo models) Cooling System Coolant Capacity: Approx. 7.2 Quarts (6.8 Liters) Coolant Type: Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Base: 5-Speed Manual Transmission (5MT) Optional Transmission Type Auto: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4AT) or 4/5-Speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (4EAT/5EAT for XT models) Features Drivetrain Standard: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) AWD System Manual: Viscous Center Differential (VCD) AWD System Auto: Active AWD (Electronically Controlled Transfer Clutch - ECT) Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Subaru Genuine Gear Oil recommended) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 180.9 inches (4,595 mm) Width: Approx. 70.1 inches (1,780 mm) Height: Approx. 65.6 inches (1,665 mm) Wheelbase: Approx. 103.0 inches (2,615 mm) Ground Clearance: Approx. 8.1 inches (205 mm) Weights Curb Weight Base: Approx. 3,165 lbs (1,435 kg) (Manual Transmission) Curb Weight Turbo: Approx. 3,530 lbs (1,601 kg) (Forester XT Manual) Cargo Cargo Volume: Approx. 32.0 cubic feet (behind rear seats) Max Cargo Volume: Approx. 68.3 cubic feet (with rear seats folded) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash: 5-Star (Driver and Passenger) for all model years in range IIHS Top Safety Pick: Yes (Top Safety Pick awards received for multiple years in this generation) Active Features Stability Control: Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) - Standard Traction Control: Traction Control System (TCS) - Standard ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard Passive Features Airbags: Frontal, Side-Curtain, Front-Seat Side Impact Airbags Seatbelts: 3-point Seatbelts with Pretensioners and Load Limiters Child Anchors: Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) System 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard AM/FM/CD with MP3 capability, optional auxiliary input, steering wheel controls, and premium audio systems. Navigation: Optional factory-installed touch-screen navigation system. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control. Other Features: Keyless Entry, Power Windows/Locks/Mirrors, Automatic Climate Control (on higher trims). Connectivity Usb Port: Not standard on all trims; often an accessory or found in higher trims/later models. Bluetooth: Available on some trims or as an accessory option. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,750 Miles / 6 Months (Severe) or 7,500 Miles / 12 Months (Normal) - consult manual for specifics Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 Miles (Severe) or 30,000 Miles (Normal) Spark Plug Replacement: Every 60,000 Miles (Iridium) Timing Belt Replacement: Not Applicable (Interference Engine uses timing chain, not belt) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Spec: SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant) Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.8 Quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change Brake Fluid Spec: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Known Issues Head Gasket Concern: While improved over earlier generations, some EJ series engines can still develop head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and repair procedures. Oil Consumption: Some models may exhibit oil consumption, particularly on higher mileage vehicles. Manual provides diagnostics for oil control rings and PCV system. Cv Joint...