Likely text-searchable if properly created OCR'd digital copy
Print Quality
Print Recommendation:
High-quality print for clarity of diagrams and text
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code Usdm:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4
Displacement:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1
Performance
Horsepower Usdm:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Usdm:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 Octane (USA)
Engine Codes Non Usdm
Engine Code Ej251:
2.5L SOHC (pre-facelift, some markets)
Engine Code Ej255:
2.5L Turbocharged DOHC (Forester XT)
Performance Xt Hp:
210-230 hp (depending on market/tune)
Performance Xt Torque:
235-250 lb-ft (depending on market/tune)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-Speed Manual
Optional
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (with Electronic Control)
Features
AWD System Manual:
Viscous coupling limited-slip center differential
AWD System Automatic:
Active All-Wheel Drive (electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4485 mm (176.6 in)
Width:
1735 mm (68.3 in)
Height:
1590 mm (62.6 in) (without roof rails)
Wheelbase:
2630 mm (103.5 in)
Ground Clearance:
200 mm (7.9 in)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 1450 kg (3197 lbs)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 1485 kg (3274 lbs)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 88.0 cu ft (2490 liters) with rear seats folded
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Driver Front Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Passenger Front Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Driver Rear Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Passenger Rear Seat:
5 Stars
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good
IIHS Side Impact:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available (often with automatic transmission models)
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Standard dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioner seatbelts, three-point rear seatbelts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Base models typically feature a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD player. Higher trims may offer a 6-speaker system and an in-dash CD changer.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on select higher trim levels.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most trims.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
No standard auxiliary input or USB ports. Bluetooth was not a factory option.
Climate Control
Manual Ac:
Manual climate control with air conditioning.
Automatic Climate Control:
Optional automatic climate control on higher trim levels.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions) - refer to specific market manual
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Approximately 105,000 miles or 105 months (critical maintenance item)
Fluid Specifications
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Gear oil API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific PN)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (Genuine Subaru or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free long-life coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier EJ engines, some EJ253 engines may still experience coolant leaks from head gaskets over time. The manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Wheel Bearings:
Front and rear wheel bearings can wear out, leading to noise. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Cv Boots:
Torn CV boots can lead to joint failure. Manual provides replacement procedures.
Automatic Transmission Control:
Early 4-speed automatics can sometimes exhibit delayed engagement or shifting issues, often related to fluid quality or solenoid issues. Manual offers diagnostic steps.
Exhaust Flange Gaskets:
Cracked exhaust manifold or up-pipe gaskets can cause exhaust leaks and ticking noises, particularly on turbocharged models, but also can occur on naturally aspirated ones. Manual covers replacement.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru AWD Legacy:
Subaru's pioneering history with All-Wheel Drive technology dating back to the Subaru Leone in the 1970s.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
First generation Subaru Forester (SF chassis) introduced in 1997.
Second Generation Launch:
The 2002 model year marked the introduction of the second generation (SG chassis) Forester, with a significantly revised platform and styling.
Facelift:
A minor facelift occurred for the 2005 model year, primarily affecting the front fascia and interior trim.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Ota, Gunma Prefecture, Japan (Subaru's primary manufacturing facility)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Щения:
Car and Driver's 10Best Trucks and SUVs multiple times during its early generations.
Ratings
Edmunds Review:
Generally praised for its standard AWD, comfortable ride, and practicality, though criticized for interior materials and engine power on non-turbo models.
Certifications
Safety Certifications:
Consistently received high safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA for its class during this period.