Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Optional
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Features
AWD Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Viscous coupling center differential for 5MT, electronic control for 4EAT)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios
Automatic Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
175.8 inches (4465 mm)
Width:
69.7 inches (1770 mm)
Height:
63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Ground Clearance:
8.0 inches (203 mm)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
31.5 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Folded:
67.5 cubic feet
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
3330 lbs (1510 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
3435 lbs (1558 kg)
Towing Capacity:
2000 lbs (907 kg) (Check local regulations and hitch requirements)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
5-Star (for 2001 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for 2001 model year)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for 2001 model year)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional premium audio system. Speaker configuration varies by trim level.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls standard, automatic climate control optional on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Traction Control:
Not standard, but some later models or specific trims might have had limited electronic stability control features (check specific vehicle).
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Not available in this model year
Usb:
Not available in this model year
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (NGK PFR6G or equivalent recommended)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Failure leads to catastrophic engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH (Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 US Quarts (4.4 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-HOAT (Phosphate-Organic Acid Technology)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III / Mercon compatible fluid
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
API GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent on the EJ251 compared to later EJ25s, it's still a potential concern. Monitor coolant levels and look for external leaks.
Rear Main Seal:
Can develop leaks over time. Usually addressed during clutch or transmission service.
Suspension Wear:
Worn bushings and struts are common due to age and mileage, affecting ride quality and handling.
Exhaust System:
Corrosion and leaks, particularly in the mufflers and catalytic converters, can occur.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure can lead to stalling and no-start conditions. A common diagnostic code is P0335.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Philosophy:
Focus on safety, reliability, and all-wheel-drive technology, particularly in inclement weather
Model Evolution
First Generation Sf:
Launched in 1997, the SF generation Forester was Subaru's entry into the burgeoning compact SUV/CUV market, blending car-like handling with SUV utility.
Sf Generation Updates 2001:
The 2001 model saw minor updates, including revised styling and equipment adjustments, maintaining its core strengths.
Production
Production Years Sf Generation:
1997-2002
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Ota, Gunma Prefecture)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Best SUVs:
The Forester was frequently recognized by automotive publications for its all-weather capability and practicality in the compact SUV segment.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by year and specific components, with head gaskets and some transmission issues being noted concerns in the Subaru community.
Certifications
Emissions Certification:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for the 2001 model year.