Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, HVAC problems, starting/charging issues, ABS fault diagnosis.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical system voltages, emissions data, alignment settings, tire pressure recommendations.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical system wiring diagrams for all major circuits, allowing for accurate diagnosis and repair of electrical issues.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive - Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical system diagnosis, and bodywork repair.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Quality:
High-resolution, searchable PDF. Printable pages.
Print Quality
Clarity:
Clear, legible text and diagrams suitable for printing.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
EJ25D (Phase I SOHC)
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.5:1
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 16 Valves
Performance
Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
162 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approximate)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil-pack depending on variant
Engine Variations
Alternative Engine:
EJ251 (Phase II DOHC, 167 hp) - May be present in later 1999 models or specific markets. Manual would cover both if applicable.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Optional
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Features
AWD System Auto:
Variable torque distribution with a planetary gear center differential and viscous coupling unit.
AWD System Manual:
Full-time Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with a viscous coupling limited-slip center differential.
Fluid Specifications Auto
Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification).
Fluid Specifications Manual
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for exact specification).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4,410 mm (173.6 in)
Width:
1,735 mm (68.3 in)
Height:
1,590 mm (62.6 in)
Wheelbase:
2,500 mm (98.4 in)
Ground Clearance:
approx. 8.0 inches (203 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Auto:
approx. 1,430 kg (3,153 lbs)
Curb Weight Manual:
approx. 1,405 kg (3,100 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
approx. 1,900 kg (4,189 lbs)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
approx. 35.1 cu ft (994 liters)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
approx. 67.5 cu ft (1,911 liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (for vehicles tested)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (for vehicles tested)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for vehicles tested)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Not standard, but available on some trims.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Side airbags not standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, 3-point rear seatbelts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD or Cassette player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.
Navigation:
Not available on standard 1999 models.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically standard; may require aftermarket modifications.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (12 months) or as per severe/normal driving conditions specified in the manual. Consult the manual for exact recommendation based on oil type used.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (or annually).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., platinum) and interval (often 60,000 - 100,000 miles).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! Approximately every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years, as this is an interference engine. Manual will detail exact interval and procedure.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-2, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. Check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature. Capacity: ~4.5 quarts with filter.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol based antifreeze. Capacity: ~7.0 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual). Capacity: Approx. 0.5 liters.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While more prevalent in later EJ25 engines, some early models can experience head gasket leaks. Manual provides diagnostic procedures.
Timing Belt:
Critical to maintain replacement schedule due to interference engine design. Manual details replacement and inspection.
Idle Control Valve:
Can sometimes become dirty and cause rough idling. Manual provides cleaning/testing procedures.
Automatic Transmission Behavior:
Some users report occasional rough shifts; manual offers diagnostic steps for the 4EAT.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Focus:
Subaru's long history and expertise in building reliable all-wheel-drive vehicles, often with unique Boxer engine configurations.
Model Evolution
Forester Introduction:
The Subaru Forester was introduced in 1997 as Subaru's first compact crossover SUV, blending the driving dynamics of a car with the utility of an SUV.
First Generation Sf:
The 1999 model is part of the first generation (SF series), produced from 1997 to 2002. It established the Forester's signature blend of AWD, raised ride height, and wagon-like practicality.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Varies by model year; Subaru generally known for good reliability, though specific year ratings should be checked.
Vehicle Type Recognition:
Often praised for its AWD capability and practicality in a compact SUV segment.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.