Front suspension (struts, control arms, stabilizers), rear suspension (multi-link, struts, stabilizers), steering system (power steering rack and pump), wheel bearings
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), body electrical systems (wiper, washer, horn, power windows, locks), ECU diagnostics, CAN bus system
HVAC Body:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, body panels, doors, windows, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, sunroof (if equipped), glass
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, 91 octane recommended for Turbocharged)
Engine Management
ECM Type:
Subaru Engine Control Module (ECM), specific part numbers for NA and Turbo variants
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors (O2 sensors), secondary air injection system (on some variants)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Na:
5-speed Manual Transmission (TY754VB)
Transmission Type Auto:
4-speed Automatic Transmission with Electronic Control (4EAT)
Optional
Transmission Options:
5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic (availability varies by trim)
Features
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Viscous coupling limited-slip center differential (manual) or electronically controlled hydraulic transfer clutch (automatic)
At Sportshift:
Some 4EAT models may feature a 'Sportshift' manual mode (check specific trim)
Maintenance Fluid
Manual Trans Fluid:
GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (Subaru Extra-S or equivalent recommended)
Automatic Trans Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or Dexron III compatible fluid
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
179.9 inches (4570 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
65.7 inches (1670 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Ground Clearance:
8.1 inches (206 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,200 - 3,500 lbs (1451 - 1588 kg) depending on configuration
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
32.1 cu ft (0.91 m³)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
67.1 cu ft (1.90 m³)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test:
5-Star (Front and Rear Passengers)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good
IIHS Side Impact:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
E Brake Force Distribution:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear)
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with 4 or 6 speakers. Optional premium audio with subwoofer available on higher trims.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control or optional automatic climate control
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Visibility:
Excellent outward visibility due to large greenhouse and higher seating position
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack (check specific trim)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months for severe driving, 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months for normal driving (consult manual for specifics)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
105,000 miles (169,000 km) for Platinum/Iridium spark plugs
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 30,000 miles (48,000 km), then every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months thereafter
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter (EJ253/EJ255)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
0W-20, 5W-30 (refer to manual for climate-specific recommendations)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent on the EJ253/EJ255 compared to earlier generations, monitoring coolant levels and oil is crucial. The manual provides diagnostic steps.
Catalytic Converter:
Potential for premature failure due to age or rich fuel mixture; manual covers O2 sensor diagnosis.
Automatic Transmission:
Some reports of torque converter shudder or delayed shifting; manual offers troubleshooting for these.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Foundation:
Founded in 1953, known for its aviation background and engineering prowess
Subaru Specialty:
Pioneered the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and Boxer engine combination
Model Evolution
First Generation:
Launched in 1997 as a compact SUV based on the Impreza platform
Second Generation Sg:
Introduced for the 2003 model year, featuring a more robust chassis and increased interior space. The 2007 model year represents a mid-cycle refresh.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2007 Forester often received high safety accolades, including potential IIHS Top Safety Pick ratings for its class.
Consumer Reports:
Consistently ranked well for reliability and owner satisfaction in its segment by publications like Consumer Reports.