Compact Crossover SUV known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practicality, safety, and engaging driving dynamics.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competes with vehicles such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, and Ford Escape. Differentiates with standard AWD and Subaru's Boxer engine configuration.
Key Features
Key Features Vehicle:
Standard Symmetrical AWD, spacious interior, excellent visibility, advanced safety features (EyeSight Driver Assist Technology on select trims), comfortable ride, reliable powertrain.
Key Features Manual:
Provides detailed, step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic procedures, and factory specifications, enabling comprehensive maintenance and repair by both professional technicians and skilled DIY enthusiasts.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front and rear differentials, drive axles, prop shaft, viscous coupling unit, electronic control systems
Suspension And Steering:
Front MacPherson struts, rear double wishbone, power steering system (electric power steering - EPS), wheel alignment specifications, suspension components
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, child seat anchors (ISOFIX), crash sensor locations, control module diagnostics
Infotainment And Electronics:
Audio system, navigation system, backup camera, Bluetooth connectivity, instrument cluster, warning lights, ECU (Engine Control Unit), TCM (Transmission Control Module), ABS/VDC module
Procedures Included
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), tire rotation, brake inspection
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), transmission removal and installation, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms), exhaust system repair, body panel repair and replacement, HVAC component repair
Detailed wiring diagrams for all major systems, circuit testing, connector identification, troubleshooting electrical faults
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, wheels)
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Full overhaul and rebuild procedures, advanced diagnostics, component-level troubleshooting, electrical system analysis, factory-level repair information
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution, clear, and readable text and diagrams suitable for printing
6-speed Manual Transmission (available on select trims)
Cv Features
Cv Modes:
Simulated gear shifts, manual mode with paddle shifters on some trims
Manual Gear Ratios
6Mt Gear Ratios:
Provided in manual (specific ratios vary by model variant)
Awd System
AWD Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active Torque Split AWD for CVT, Direct AWD for Manual)
Fluid Specifications
Cvt Fluid Type:
Subaru CVT Fluid (e.g., K0515N1000 or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90 GL-5 or equivalent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Length
Length Mm:
4595 mm (180.9 in)
Exterior Width
Width Mm:
1795 mm (70.7 in)
Exterior Height
Height Mm:
1695 mm (66.7 in) (with roof rails)
Wheelbase
Wheelbase Mm:
2640 mm (103.9 in)
Ground Clearance
Ground Clearance Mm:
220 mm (8.7 in)
Cargo Volume
Cargo Volume Liters:
974 liters (34.4 cu ft) behind rear seats
Cargo Volume Seats Folded
Cargo Volume Seats Folded Liters:
1932 liters (68.3 cu ft) with rear seats folded
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
Approximately 1470 kg - 1580 kg (3240 lbs - 3480 lbs) depending on configuration
Wheel Size
Wheel Size:
17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels
Tire Size
Tire Size:
225/60R17 or 225/55R18
Bolt Pattern
Bolt Pattern:
5x100mm
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Top Safety Pick designation by IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) for many configurations and model years in this generation.
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:
5-Star Overall Safety Rating by NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for many configurations.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Driver Assistance Options:
Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist - available on select trims)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags, driver's knee airbag, front seatbelt pretensioners, whiplash-protection front seats, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System Standard:
Subaru STARLINK infotainment system with 6.2-inch or 7-inch touchscreen, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, USB port, auxiliary input, Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming.
Infotainment System Optional:
Upgraded STARLINK system with navigation, higher resolution screen, Aha, Pandora, iHeartRadio integration, SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Packages:
EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite (available), Blind-Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth, USB connectivity, steering wheel mounted audio and phone controls, available smartphone integration (via STARLINK app).
Other Tech
Other Technology:
Keyless entry and push-button start, multi-function display in instrument cluster, auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals Oil
Oil And Filter Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or 12 months/12,000 miles under severe conditions with synthetic oil as per some owner's manuals; consult manual for specifics).
Service Intervals Filters
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L:
Approximately every 105,000 miles (iridium type).
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L Turbo:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (iridium type).
Service Intervals Brake Fluid
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first.
Service Intervals Coolant
Coolant Flush Interval:
First at 138,000 miles, then every 75,000 miles thereafter (Subaru Super Coolant).
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid
Cvt Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (recommended for longevity and performance, consult manual).
Service Intervals Differential Fluid
Differential Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (front and rear differentials).
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue)
Fluid Capacities
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:
Approx. 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L Turbo:
Approx. 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) with filter
Cv Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 4.7-5.3 quarts (4.4-5.0 liters) for initial fill (service fill may be less).
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads and rotors, front sway bar links, tires, cabin air filter, engine air filter.
Cv T Concerns:
While generally reliable, early CVT fluid changes are often recommended by enthusiasts and mechanics to maximize longevity. Some users have reported premature failure, though this is not universal.
Turbo Engine Considerations:
The 2.0L turbo engine requires consistent maintenance, especially regarding oil quality and timely changes to prevent potential issues with turbocharger longevity. Carbon buildup can also be a concern with direct injection engines.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history of producing vehicles with horizontally opposed ('Boxer') engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, emphasizing durability, safety, and all-weather capability.
Model Evolution
Forester Evolution:
The Forester was first introduced in 1997 as a compact crossover SUV. The fourth generation (SJ series) launched for the 2014 model year, featuring a significantly redesigned exterior and interior, updated powertrains, and the introduction of the EyeSight system.
Production
Production Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards:
The 2014 Subaru Forester consistently received accolades for safety, including IIHS Top Safety Pick designations and favorable NHTSA ratings. It was also recognized for its practicality and standard AWD.
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