🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Years: 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 Codes Chassis Codes: SF, SG 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Crossover SUV Key Selling Points: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practicality, reliability, boxer engine character Competitive Analysis Competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda Tribute, Ford Escape Key Features AWD Standard: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across most trims and powertrains Ground Clearance: Higher ground clearance compared to many segment rivals, aiding off-road capability Boxer Engine: Horizontally opposed (boxer) engine configuration contributing to a lower center of gravity 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual Language: English Format: PDF Download Delivery: Instant Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, timing belt/chain replacement, lubrication system, cooling system Engine Performance: Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system, turbocharger (if applicable) Transmission Manual: Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gear selection, driveshafts, differentials Transmission Automatic: Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, transmission control module (TCM), fluid and filter service Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, transfer case, driveshafts, CV joints Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, master cylinder Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, sway bars Steering: Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion, tie rods Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, mirrors, door locks Electronics: ECU (Engine Control Unit), sensors, actuators, instrument cluster, audio system, climate control, immobilizer Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, bumpers, frame, structural components HVAC: Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant, control panel Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Oil change intervals, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement schedule Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures, fault codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical schematics for diagnostics Repair Procedures: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, torque specifications, disassembly and reassembly guidance Diagnostics: OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) procedures, sensor testing, electrical component testing Replacement: Component replacement procedures (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump, fuel pump) Adjustment: Valve adjustments, parking brake adjustments, belt tension adjustments Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic information Detail Level: Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, specifications, and procedures for complete vehicle overhaul 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text content for quick information retrieval Printability: Printable pages for workshop use Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution diagrams and illustrations Binding Type Format Type: Digital Download Paper Type Digital Format: Optimized for viewing on computers, tablets, and smartphones ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Sf: EJ251, EJ253 Engine Code Sg: EJ251, EJ253, EJ255 (turbocharged) Displacement Na: 2.5 Liters (2498cc) Configuration Na: Naturally Aspirated SOHC/DOHC Flat-4 (Boxer) Horsepower Na Early: 165 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque Na Early: 162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Horsepower Na Late: 173 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque Na Late: 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Horsepower Turbo: 210 hp @ 5600 rpm (Forester XT) Torque Turbo: 235 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (Forester XT) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI) Recommended Fuel: 87 Octane Unleaded (91 Octane for Turbo models) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic Optional Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual Features AWD System Auto: Active All-Wheel Drive (electronically controlled multi-plate clutch) AWD System Manual: Continuous All-Wheel Drive (viscous coupling center differential) Fluid Specifications Automatic Fluid Type: Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid for earlier models, consult manual for specifics) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 175.2 - 178.2 inches (4450 - 4525 mm) Width: 69.7 inches (1770 mm) Height: 63.2 - 65.0 inches (1605 - 1650 mm) Wheelbase: 103.0 inches (2615 mm) Ground Clearance: 7.7 - 8.1 inches (195 - 205 mm) Weights Curb Weight: 3150 - 3550 lbs (1430 - 1610 kg) approx. Cargo Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up: 31.5 - 37.7 cu ft (892 - 1068 L) depending on year/trim Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down: 65.7 - 72.1 cu ft (1859 - 2042 L) depending on year/trim 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Driver: Good (for SF generation, specific ratings vary by year) NHTSA Front Passenger: Good (for SF generation, specific ratings vary by year) IIHS Side Impact: Acceptable/Good (depending on year and equipment, consult specific IIHS reports) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Ebd: Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution Passive Features Airbags Front: Driver and front passenger airbags Airbags Side: Optional front side-impact airbags (available on higher trims/later years) Child Anchors: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory CD/Cassette/AM/FM stereo systems. Higher trims may feature premium audio or CD changer. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control on most models. Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Rarely found on factory systems; aftermarket solutions common. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval:...