Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical troubleshooting.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format Details:
Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Searchable text is highly probable for efficient information retrieval.
Print Quality
Print Readability:
High resolution images and clear text, ensuring legibility when printed.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer (Horizontally Opposed)
Engine Code:
EJ25 SOHC (most common)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2498 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 80.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1
Performance
Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
60 Liters (15.9 US Gallons)
Engine Maintenance
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
105,000 Miles or 105 Months
Spark Plug Type:
NGK PFR6G or equivalent (Platinum)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Features
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential
Fluid Specs Manual
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Manual Transmission)
Fluid Specs Automatic
Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent (Automatic Transmission)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4405 mm (173.4 inches)
Width:
1755 mm (69.1 inches)
Height:
1595 mm (62.8 inches)
Wheelbase:
2630 mm (103.5 inches)
Ground Clearance:
195 mm (7.7 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
1430 kg (3153 lbs)
Curb Weight Automatic:
1470 kg (3241 lbs)
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
69.5 cu ft (with rear seats folded)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for its time, though testing standards have evolved)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc brakes, optional rear drum on some base models)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control with A/C standard on most trims. Automatic climate control was an option on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Inputs:
Not standard. Aftermarket solutions may be available.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
7,500 Miles or 6 Months (whichever comes first) with synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
30,000 Miles or 30 Months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
15,000 Miles or 15 Months (if equipped)
Coolant Replacement:
30,000 Miles or 30 Months
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-6A or higher, SAE 5W-30 (preferred)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 for improved performance)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON ATF
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While the EJ25 SOHC in this generation is less prone than later DOHC versions, head gasket leaks can still occur. Manual provides repair procedures.
Timing Belt:
Failure of the timing belt is catastrophic for the engine. Regular replacement is crucial. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Cvt Transmissions:
Not applicable, this generation uses traditional automatic or manual transmissions.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings can lead to noise and imprecise handling. Manual details replacement procedures.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Legacy:
The Forester was developed from Subaru's experience with the Outback, which was a lifted version of the Legacy wagon.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
Introduced in 1997 (Japan), 1998 (North America) as a compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV).
Sf Generation 2000:
This manual covers the first generation (SF series), which ran from 1997 to 2002. The 2000 model year saw minor updates, primarily to styling and feature availability.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Best SUVs:
Forester was frequently cited by automotive publications for its practicality and AWD capability.
Certifications
Epa Fuel Economy:
Manual includes EPA fuel economy estimates (e.g., ~20 MPG City / 26 MPG Highway for manual transmission).