🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Year: 2012 Codes Chassis Code: SH Series (North America) 👋 Introduction Market Position Category: Compact Crossover SUV Target Audience: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking practical and capable AWD vehicles. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape. Key Features Drivetrain Philosophy: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across most trims. Body Style: Compact SUV with excellent cargo space and rear passenger room. Ground Clearance: Higher than many competitors, enhancing off-road capability. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: North America Regional Variations: May include specific details for Canadian and US market vehicles. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (likely PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, component testing for all engine variants (e.g., naturally aspirated, turbocharged). Transmission: Repair, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications for both automatic and manual transmissions. Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system operation, maintenance, differential repair, driveshaft and axle servicing. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, bushings, alignment specifications. Brakes: Brake system diagnostics, ABS, EBD, brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, hydraulic system bleeding. Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column. Electrical System: Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures for lighting, power accessories, battery, charging system. Climate Control: HVAC system operation, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser). Body And Chassis: Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, underbody protection, frame specifications. Safety Systems: Airbag system diagnostics and replacement, seatbelt mechanisms, SRS component locations. Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Detailed maintenance schedules for various mileage/time intervals. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides. Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment. Diagnostic Procedures: OBD-II codes, live data interpretation, component testing methods. Specification Data: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values. Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive, detailed wiring schematics for all electrical systems. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans or native digital files ensuring clarity of diagrams and text. Binding Type Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Type: N/A (Digital Download) Searchability Feature: Typically includes searchable text layers for quick information retrieval. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Na: EJ253 Engine Type Na: 2.5L Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (Boxer) Horsepower Na: 173 hp @ 5,800 rpm Torque Na: 174 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code Turbo: EJ255 Engine Type Turbo: 2.5L Turbocharged Flat-4 (Boxer) - Forester 2.5XT (discontinued in some markets for 2012, check specific regional variants) Horsepower Turbo: Approx. 224 hp (varies by market and specific XT variant) Torque Turbo: Approx. 226 lb-ft (varies by market and specific XT variant) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Recommended Octane Na: 87 Octane Recommended Octane Turbo: 91 Octane (Premium) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type Na: 4-Speed Automatic (4EAT) Optional Type Manual: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Features AWD System: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all trims). Automatic Transmission Mode: Likely includes a manual mode or paddle shifters on higher trims. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 180.0 inches (4570 mm) Width: Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm) Height: Approx. 65.7 inches (1670 mm) Wheelbase: Approx. 103.0 inches (2615 mm) Ground Clearance: Approx. 8.1 inches (205 mm) Cargo Cargo Volume Seats Up: Approx. 34.4 cu ft (974 L) Cargo Volume Seats Down: Approx. 73.0 cu ft (2067 L) Weights Curb Weight Start: Approx. 3,350 lbs (1519 kg) Curb Weight End: Approx. 3,650 lbs (1656 kg) (depending on configuration) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings IIHS Top Safety Pick: Yes (for 2012 model year) NHTSA Overall Rating: Generally good ratings, refer to NHTSA for specific crash test data. Active Features Traction Control: Standard Electronic Stability Control: Standard (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC) Antilock Brakes: Standard (ABS) Electronic Brakeforce Distribution: Standard (EBD) Passive Features Airbags: Front, side-curtain, and front-seat side airbags. Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters. Child Seat Anchors: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: Base models likely feature a standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input. Higher trims may offer touch-screen navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and Rockford Fosgate audio upgrades. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims. Rear View Camera: Available on higher trim levels. Connectivity Bluetooth: Available on select trims for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Usb Port: Available on select trims. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3.75 months (severe service), or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 7.5 months (normal service). Air Filter Replacement: Typically every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as...