🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Model Generation: Second Generation (SG) Model Years Covered: 2003, 2004 Codes Chassis Code: SG Engine Codes: EJ253 (Naturally Aspirated), EJ255 (Turbocharged - XT models) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Crossover SUV Target Audience: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking all-weather capability. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra. Key Features Differentiating Factors: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engine, Practicality, Good Visibility. Manual Value Proposition: Provides authorized dealer-level repair and maintenance information, enabling cost-effective ownership. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: North America Secondary Coverage: Global (specifications may vary slightly by region) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Source: Reproduction of original Subaru Factory Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Engine Lubrication, Cooling System, Turbocharger System (if applicable) Transmission Drivetrain: Manual Transmission (5-speed), Automatic Transmission (4-speed), All-Wheel Drive System (Symmetrical AWD), Drivetrain Components (driveshafts, differentials) Chassis Suspension: Front Suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, EBD, Hill Start Assist - if equipped) Electrical Body: Body Electrical Systems, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Chassis Electrical, Power Accessories, Body Repair, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Circuit Diagrams, Wiring Schematics, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Level Checks and Replacements Repair Rebuild: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair/Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair/Replacement Diagnostics Adjustment: Engine Timing Adjustment, Idle Speed Control, Emission Control System Diagnostics and Repair, Wheel Alignment Specifications Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Quality: High-resolution, searchable text, printable pages. Print Quality Usability: Designed for professional technicians and DIY enthusiasts, facilitating accurate diagnosis and repair. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Naturally Aspirated: 2.5L EJ253 SOHC Flat-4 (Boxer) Turbocharged: 2.5L EJ255 DOHC Turbocharged Flat-4 (Boxer - Forester XT) Performance Naturally Aspirated Horsepower: 165 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque: 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Performance Turbocharged Horsepower: 210 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque: 235 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Injection Type: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Regular 87 Octane (for NA models), Premium Unleaded 91 Octane (recommended for XT models) Engine Management ECU: Subaru Engine Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostics. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic Transmission Features Drivetrain: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for both transmission types. Automatic Features Sportshift: Not available on 2003-2004 models. Manual Fluid Gear Oil Spec: GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for specific Subaru fluid) Automatic Fluid Atf Spec: Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON compatible) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 173.8 inches Width: 69.7 inches Height: 63.4 inches Wheelbase: 103.1 inches Interior Passenger Volume: 99.0 cu ft Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats: 30.0 cu ft Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded: 64.3 cu ft Weights Curb Weight Min: 3240 lbs (FWD - rare option), 3370 lbs (AWD Manual) Curb Weight Max: 3560 lbs (AWD XT Automatic) Towing Towing Capacity: 2400 lbs (with trailer brake controller, consult owner's manual for specific configurations) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Nhtsa Driver Front Impact: 5 Stars (2003) Passenger Front Impact: 5 Stars (2003) Side Impact Driver: 4 Stars (2003) Side Impact Rear Passenger: 4 Stars (2003) Ratings Iihs Front Crash Test: Good (2003) Side Impact Crash Test: Acceptable (2003 - without optional side airbags) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Ebd: Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Passive Features Airbags: Standard Frontal Airbags, Optional Side-Curtain Airbags (availability varies by trim) Seatbelts: 3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard AM/FM/CD player with 4 speakers. Optional premium audio with 6 speakers and subwoofer available on higher trims. Navigation: Optional factory-installed GPS navigation system available on select models. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control. Traction Control: Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models. Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Not typically standard; aftermarket solutions may exist. Other Keyless Entry: Available on select trim levels. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval Typical: Every 3,750 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation). Engine Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (refer to manual). Spark Plug Replacement Naturally Aspirated: 100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium tipped) Spark Plug Replacement Turbocharged: 30,000 miles (Specialized heat range, consult manual) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: 5W-30 Synthetic or Conventional (API SM or higher) Engine Oil Capacity Na: 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters)...