🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Generation: SF Model Years Covered: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 Codes Chassis Code: SF5, SF9 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Crossover SUV Key Selling Points: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, practicality, wagon-like utility, good visibility Competitive Analysis Competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute Key Features Body Styles: 5-door SUV/Crossover Standard Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Regions Covered: Global (primarily North American specifications unless otherwise noted) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500-2000+ (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, exact count not specified) Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system Engine Management: Fuel injection (MPI), ignition system, emissions control, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor identification and testing Transmission Manual: Clutch system, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear shift linkage, transmission fluid specifications Transmission Automatic: Automatic transmission (4EAT) operation, torque converter, valve body, transmission control unit (TCU) diagnostics, fluid specifications Drivetrain AWD: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, viscous coupling center differential, rear differential, drive shafts, CV joints Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (or drums on some early models), ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures Suspension: Front struts and springs, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting systems, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams Body And Interior: Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, glass replacement Diagnostics Troubleshooting: OBD-II diagnostic codes, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic tool usage Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, tire rotation, brake pad inspection Engine Repairs: Head gasket replacement, timing belt service, piston ring replacement, valve adjustment Transmission Service: Automatic transmission fluid and filter change, clutch replacement, manual transmission rebuild Brake Service: Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper servicing, ABS sensor replacement Suspension Repairs: Strut and spring replacement, ball joint replacement, control arm bushing replacement Electrical Diagnostics: Circuit testing, component testing, wiring harness repair, starter and alternator testing Air Conditioning Service: Refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), leak testing Body Repair: Dent repair, panel replacement, rust prevention and repair, glass installation Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls) Diagnostic Capabilities: Advanced diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, pinout data, sensor voltage charts Torque Specifications: Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners Special Tools: Identification and use of Subaru-specific or recommended special tools 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Quality: Likely scanned from original print, quality can vary but generally readable with searchable text features often present Print Quality Original Print Quality: Professional factory publication standards Binding Type Original Binding: Spiral-bound or perfect-bound (original print) Paper Type Original Paper Type: Durable, semi-gloss paper stock ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code And Type: EJ253 (2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated) Displacement: 2457 cc (2.5 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 99.5 mm x 79.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.7:1 Horsepower: 165 hp @ 5,500 rpm (approx.) Torque: 166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.) Valvetrain: SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) 16-valve Fuel Delivery: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Engine Options Turbocharged Engine Availability: Yes, Forester S/TB and STI models (GT) featured the EJ205 2.0L Turbocharged engine, not covered by this general manual unless specified. Performance 0 60 Mph Time: Approx. 8.5 - 9.5 seconds (depending on transmission and conditions) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) Optional Optional Transmission: 5-speed Manual Transmission Features AWD System Type: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (Active AWD on automatic, viscous LSD on manual) Automatic Transmission Modes: Normal, Sport (with "Grade Logic Control" for downhill engine braking) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4405 mm (173.4 in) Width: 1735 mm (68.3 in) Height: 1590 mm (62.6 in) Wheelbase: 2530 mm (99.6 in) Ground Clearance: 195 mm (7.7 in) Weights Curb Weight Approx: 1450 - 1550 kg (3197 - 3417 lbs) Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat: Approx. 31.5 cu ft (expandable) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rollover Rating: 4/5 Stars (for vehicles equipped with AWD) Active Features ABS: Standard on most models (4-wheel disc brakes with ABS) Traction Control: Not typically standard on this generation, but may have been optional or specific to certain markets/trims. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags were optional or not available on all models. Seatbelts: 3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional premium sound system. Basic digital display for clock/radio. Climate Control: Manual HVAC controls with standard A/C. Automatic climate control was not common...