🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Year: 2004 Codes Chassis Code: SF Engine Code Primary: EJ253 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Crossover SUV Key Selling Points: Standard All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD), Practicality, Reliability, Boxer Engine Configuration Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 2004: Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra Key Features Vehicle AWD System: Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS) Engine Layout: Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Repair Service Manual Language: English Format: PDF Download Target Audience: Professional Technicians and Enthusiasts Page Count Estimated Page Count: ~1500-2000 pages (typical for full factory service manuals) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (AWD System, Differentials, Axles) Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, Parking Brake) Electrical: Starting System, Charging System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, HVAC System, Audio System, Body Control Modules, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Body: Body Exterior, Body Interior, Doors, Windows, Roof, Seats, Restraints (Airbags) Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and top-offs, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspections and replacement Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Symptom-based troubleshooting, Electrical circuit testing, Component testing Major Repairs: Engine overhaul, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper/rotor replacement, Electrical component replacement Technical Specifications: Torque specifications, Clearances, Wiring diagrams, Vacuum diagrams, Diagnostic procedures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Text-searchable (enabling quick finding of specific information) Print Quality Resolution: High-resolution scans, suitable for printing Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated, SOHC, 16-valve Boxer-4 Engine Code: EJ253 Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2457 cc) Performance Horsepower Peak: 165 hp @ 5,600 rpm Torque Peak: 166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type Recommendation: 87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Features AWD Integration: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive integrated with both transmission types 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4,450 mm (175.2 in) Width: 1,735 mm (68.3 in) Height: 1,590 mm (62.6 in) Wheelbase: 2,630 mm (103.5 in) Weights Curb Weight Approx: 1,450 - 1,550 kg (3,197 - 3,417 lbs) Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats: 33.5 cu ft Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded: 67.7 cu ft 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: ★★★★★ (5-star) NHTSA Front Impact Passenger: ★★★★★ (5-star) IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating: Good Active Features Vehicle Dynamics Control: Standard Traction Control System: Standard Antilock Braking System: Standard Passive Features Airbags Front: Dual Frontal Airbags Airbags Side: Optional Side Curtain Airbags (availability dependent on trim) Seatbelts: Pretensioner front seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard AM/FM/CD player; Optional premium audio with subwoofer; Auxiliary input (on some models/trims) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard Connectivity Bluetooth Handsfree: Not available from the factory; aftermarket solutions are common. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval Engine Oil: Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal driving) - Consult Owner's Manual for specifics Air Filter Replacement: Inspect every 15,000 miles, Replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles) Spark Plug Replacement: Approximately every 100,000 miles (platinum tipped) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API SN or higher) Engine Oil Capacity: 4.5 US quarts (with filter) Coolant Type: Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water Transmission Fluid Type Manual: GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil Transmission Fluid Type Automatic: Subaru ATF HP or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent Known Issues Head Gaskets: While less prevalent than on earlier EJ25 engines, head gasket leaks can still occur on the EJ253. This manual will detail diagnostic and repair procedures. Catalytic Converter: Premature failure can occur, often related to engine misfires or oil consumption. The manual covers diagnosis and replacement. Wheel Bearings: Can be prone to wear, especially with off-road use or if AWD system is neglected. Manual details replacement. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand Focus: Subaru's long history in rally racing and its specialization in All-Wheel Drive technology Model Evolution Forester Generations: This 2004 model belongs to the first generation (SF, 1997-2002) facelifted version or the early part of the second generation (SG, 2003-2008). The 2004 model year marks the transition or is firmly within the second generation. Production Manufacturing Location: Japan 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Consumer Reports Reliability: Generally rated as average to above-average reliability by automotive publications, with AWD system being a strong point. Ratings Fuel Economy Mpg City: 19-20 MPG (approximate, depending on transmission) Fuel Economy Mpg Highway: 23-26 MPG (approximate,...