🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Year: 2003-2004 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The 2003-2004 Subaru Forester occupies a niche in the compact SUV market, known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practical utility, and comfortable ride. This manual positions itself as the authoritative source for maintaining and repairing this specific generation, directly competing with unofficial guides by offering OEM-level accuracy. Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: Compared to aftermarket repair manuals (e.g., Haynes, Chilton), this OEM Factory Service Manual provides significantly greater detail, accuracy, and completeness. It is the identical documentation used by Subaru dealerships, ensuring that repairs are performed to factory specifications. This manual offers a cost-effective alternative to dealership labor costs. Key Features Key Features: OEM accuracy, comprehensive coverage, detailed diagrams and illustrations, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, instant digital delivery, searchable PDF format, printable sections, future download support. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Areas: Comprehensive repair and maintenance procedures for the 2003-2004 Subaru Forester. Specific Models Covered: All 2003-2004 Subaru Forester models, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged (XT) variants, with both manual and automatic transmissions. Page Count Page Count: N/A (Digital Format) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / OEM Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF (Digital Download) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Systems Covered: Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case, Driveshafts, Axles, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front and Rear), ABS System, HVAC System, Body Electrical, Chassis Electrical, Body and Frame, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, SRS Airbag System, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides, Maintenance Schedules. Procedures Included Procedures Included: Routine maintenance, disassembly and reassembly of all major components, diagnostic troubleshooting, electrical system testing, component replacement, adjustment procedures, specifications, torque values, wiring diagrams, vacuum diagrams, special tools list, fluid types and capacities, emission control system service. Engine Rebuild Procedures: Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, seals), cylinder head service, and engine assembly, including torque specifications and clearances. Electrical Troubleshooting: Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, diagnostic flowcharts, troubleshooting symptom guides, and component testing procedures for sensors, actuators, and control modules. Technical Depth Technical Depth: Complete, in-depth coverage suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, and step-by-step instructions for complex repairs and diagnostics. Diagnostic Procedures: In-depth diagnostic strategies for identifying common and complex faults, including OBD-II code interpretation and guided troubleshooting sequences. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Portable Document Format (PDF) Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution, suitable for printing specific sections or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Primary Engine: 2.5L Naturally Aspirated EJ25 SOHC/DOHC Flat-4 Boxer Engine Performance Horsepower Sohc: Approx. 165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (specific to market and trim) Torque Sohc: Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (specific to market and trim) Horsepower DOHc: Approx. 170-175 hp @ 5,600 rpm (specific to market and trim, e.g., XT model) Torque DOHc: Approx. 170-177 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (specific to market and trim, e.g., XT model) Engine Aspirated Type: Naturally Aspirated Engine Forced Induction Type: Turbocharged (on XT models) Fuel System Fuel System: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) for 2004 models. Recommended Fuel: Unleaded Regular Gasoline (Octane 87 or higher) Engine Code Engine Code: EJ251 (SOHC), EJ255 (DOHC Turbocharged for XT models) Compression Ratio Compression Ratio: Approx. 10.0:1 (SOHC), 8.4:1 (DOHC Turbo) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Optional Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with electronic control) Features Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all trims. Transfer Case: Integrated with AWD system, features viscous coupling center differential. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid Type: API GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: Subaru Genuine ATF HP (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 175.9 inches (4468 mm) Width: Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm) Height: Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm) Wheelbase: Approx. 101.4 inches (2575 mm) Weights Curb Weight Manual: Approx. 3,197 lbs (1450 kg) Curb Weight Automatic: Approx. 3,263 lbs (1480 kg) Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs (907 kg) when properly equipped Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat: Approx. 30.0 cubic feet (850 liters) Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded: Approx. 63.0 cubic feet (1784 liters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rollover Rating 2003: 4 out of 5 stars IIHS Frontal Offset Rating 2003: Good Active Features Active Features: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Passive Features Passive Features: Front airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional on some trims), front seatbelt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors, crumple zones. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Standard AM/FM/CD stereo system. Optional premium audio systems...