🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Year: 2012 Generation: Fourth Generation (SJ) Codes Chassis Code: SJ 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Crossover SUV Key Selling Points: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard, practical cargo space, excellent visibility, reputation for safety and durability. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape. Key Features AWD System: Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a standard feature across all trims, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions. Engine Layout: Horizontally-opposed Boxer engines, providing a lower center of gravity for improved handling and stability. Visibility: Excellent outward visibility due to large glass areas and a commanding driving position. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Region Covered: Global (primarily North America, Europe, Australia) Page Count Total Pages: 4534 Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Comprehensive coverage of all engine variants, including Boxer engine principles, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for naturally aspirated and turbocharged (XT models) engines. Transmission: Detailed information on Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and 5-speed/6-speed manual transmissions, including operation, maintenance, diagnostics, and overhaul. Drivetrain: Full coverage of Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, including front and rear differentials, driveshafts, and coupling systems. Suspension: In-depth coverage of front MacPherson struts and rear multi-link suspension systems, including component replacement, alignment specifications, and troubleshooting. Brakes: Detailed procedures for hydraulic brake system maintenance, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, and bleeding procedures. Steering: Information on hydraulic power steering system, including pump, rack and pinion, and fluid specifications. Electrical: Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams for all circuits, component testing, charging system, starting system, lighting, and accessory circuits. Climate Control: Service and repair procedures for HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, including refrigerant handling, component replacement, and diagnosis. Body And Interior: Detailed instructions for body panel removal and installation, interior trim, upholstery, glass replacement, and bodywork repair. Safety Systems: Coverage of SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and associated sensors and control modules. NOTE: Extreme caution and specific training are required for SRS system work. Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Detailed maintenance schedules and procedures for all intervals, including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and inspections. Engine Repair: Component-level engine repair, including cylinder head removal/installation, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and bearing service, and timing belt/chain replacement (where applicable). Transmission Repair: Overhaul procedures for both manual and CVT transmissions, including torque converter replacement, clutch service, and valve body diagnostics. Brake Service: Replacement of brake pads, rotors, calipers, hoses, and bleeding of the brake system. Electrical Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic flowcharts for common electrical faults, including sensor testing and ECU diagnosis. Suspension And Steering Repair: Replacement of struts, shocks, ball joints, tie rod ends, and power steering pump/rack. Body Panel Replacement: Step-by-step guides for removing and installing fenders, hoods, bumpers, doors, and glass. Troubleshooting: Comprehensive troubleshooting section with symptoms, potential causes, and recommended repair actions for various vehicle systems. Torque Specifications: Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners across all vehicle systems. Technical Depth Depth: Complete overhaul and detailed repair procedures, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Compatibility: Viewable on any device with a PDF reader (PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone). Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and images. Optimized for printing. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF) Searchability Text Search: Searchable text allows for quick location of specific information, procedures, and part numbers. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Base: FB25 Displacement Base: 2.5 Liters (2498 cc) Configuration Base: Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (Boxer) Horsepower Base: 173 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque Base: 174 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm Turbo Engine Engine Code Turbo: FA20DIT (Forester XT models) Displacement Turbo: 2.0 Liters (1998 cc) Configuration Turbo: Turbocharged Flat-4 (Boxer) Horsepower Turbo: 250 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque Turbo: 258 lb-ft @ 2000-4800 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) for NA engines, Direct Injection (DI) for XT models. Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Recommended Octane: 87 AKI (for NA), 91 AKI (for XT models) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 6-speed Manual Transmission (available on some trims, particularly 2.5i models) Features AWD Integration: Fully integrated with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system for optimized power distribution. Cvt Modes: Manual mode with paddle shifters for simulated gear changes (on select trims). Fluid Specifications Cvt Fluid Type: Subaru CVTF (Continuously Variable Fluid) II or equivalent (specific part number available in manual). Manual Transmission Fluid: Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil or equivalent (API GL-5, SAE 75W-90). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 180.9 inches (4595 mm) Width:...