🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Generation: First Generation (SF) Model Years Covered: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 Codes Chassis Codes: SF5, SF9 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Crossover SUV Usp: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Practicality, Affordability Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute Key Features AWD System: Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Standard on all trims Ground Clearance: Enhanced for light off-road capability Engine Layout: Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) Engine 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Documentation Scope: Comprehensive Workshop Service Repair Manual Page Count Total Pages: 3000+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Exhaust, Cooling, Fuel System Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels and Tires Body And Interior: Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC, Interior Trim Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, ECUs, Sensors Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Diagnosis Repair: Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Component Repair Specifications: Torque Specifications, Tolerances, Electrical Specifications Technical Depth Depth: Complete Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Advanced Electrical Diagnostics, Body Repair Procedures 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Print Quality Searchability: Searchable Text Readability: High Resolution for Clear Viewing and Printing Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) Delivery Delivery Method: Instant Download ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: EJ253 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated) Engine Type: 2.5L DOHC 16-Valve Flat-4 (Boxer) Displacement: 2457 cc (2.5 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 99.5 mm x 80.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.7:1 Performance Horsepower Hp: 165 hp @ 5,600 RPM (1999-2002) Torque Lb Ft: 166 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM (1999-2002) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Engine Management Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Std: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Opt: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) Features Drivetrain Configuration: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Standard) Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: Subaru Hypoid Gear Oil API GL-5 75W-90 (or equivalent) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4,405 mm (173.4 inches) Width: 1,735 mm (68.3 inches) Height: 1,590 mm (62.6 inches) Wheelbase: 2,510 mm (98.8 inches) Ground Clearance: approx. 195 mm (7.7 inches) Cargo Cargo Volume Seats Up: approx. 27.1 cu ft (768 liters) Weights Curb Weight Est: 1,460 kg - 1,540 kg (3,219 lbs - 3,395 lbs) depending on trim/transmission 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Test: 4-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (1999 MY) IIHS Front Crash Test: Good (1999-2002 MY) Active Features ABS: Standard on most trims, optional on early models Traction Control: Available on some models Passive Features Airbags: Frontal Airbags (Driver and Passenger) Seatbelts: 3-Point Height-Adjustable Front Seatbelts with Pretensioners Child Anchors: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) System 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/CD Player, optional cassette tape player, available premium sound system Display: Analog gauges, climate controls, basic digital odometer Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims All Wheel Drive Control: Symmetrical AWD is a core technology feature Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Not typically factory equipped; aftermarket solutions available. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (normal conditions) - refer to manual for specific grade. Air Filter Replacement Interval: Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months Spark Plug Replacement Interval: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum plugs Coolant Flush Interval: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30, API SJ or higher (check manual for exact specification) Engine Oil Capacity: 4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change Coolant Type: Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant Coolant Capacity: approx. 6.0 US quarts (5.7 Liters) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Power Steering Fluid Type: Subaru Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF Known Issues Head Gaskets: Premature head gasket failure is a known, albeit less common, issue on some EJ series engines, particularly with earlier models. The manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures. Rear Main Seal Leaks: Potential for rear main seal leaks over time. Manual covers replacement. Automatic Transmission Behavior: Some models may exhibit rough shifting or delayed engagement, often related to fluid contamination or valve body issues. Manual details diagnosis and repair. Window Regulators: Window regulator mechanisms can become weak or fail. Manual covers removal and replacement. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Manufacturer Origins: Japan, established 1917 Brand Specialty: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engines, Rally Sport Heritage Model Evolution Introduction Year: 1997 (Japan), 1998 (Global Launch) First Generation Codenaming: SF Series Major Redesign Points: The 1999 model year saw a significant facelift and powertrain update for the Forester,...