🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Forester Year: 2012-2013 Codes Chassis Code: SJ Series 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Crossover SUV Key Selling Points: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard, excellent visibility, practical interior, good safety ratings, versatile cargo space. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5. Key Features Platform: Subaru SG platform evolution. SUV Heritage: Builds upon Subaru's long history of producing capable AWD vehicles. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Markets Covered: Global (primarily North America, Europe, Australia) Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain, exhaust system, fuel system, cooling system, ignition system. Chassis: Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels, tires. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting, power accessories, battery, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, infotainment, safety systems (SRS). Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, interior trim, structural components. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt inspection and replacement. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system diagnostics. Repair: Engine repair (head gasket, timing belt/chain, pistons), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair. Disassembly Reassembly: Step-by-step instructions for major component removal and installation. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs and diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Searchability: Fully searchable text content for quick information retrieval. Printable: Printable pages for convenient workshop use. Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Downloadable PDF) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Downloadable PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 2.5L: EJ253 (Naturally Aspirated) Engine Layout 2.5L: Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder Displacement 2.5L: 2.5 Liters (2498 cc) Horsepower 2.5L: 170 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque 2.5L: 174 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code 2.4L Turbo (Limited Markets): EJ205/EJ255 variant (less common for this year range in some regions, but potentially covered) Fuel System Injection Type: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, 91+ for optimal performance) Cooling System Coolant Type: Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water). Ignition System Spark Plugs: NGK SILFR6A (Iridium) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) Features AWD System: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all trims. At AWD Coupling: Viscous coupling center differential (for automatic) Mt AWD Coupling: Viscous coupling limited-slip center differential (for manual) Fluid Specifications Manual Fluid: GL-5 Gear Oil, 75W-90 (API classification), Subaru Extra-S recommended. Automatic Fluid: Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) Fluid, or equivalent Dexron III compatible fluid (verify specific subtype in manual). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4560 mm (179.5 in) Width: Approx. 1780 mm (70.1 in) Height: Approx. 1670 mm (65.7 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2630 mm (103.5 in) Cargo Cargo Volume Seats Up: Approx. 34.4 cu ft (974 L) Cargo Volume Seats Down: Approx. 70.7 cu ft (2002 L) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1520-1610 kg (3350-3550 lbs) Towing Capacity: Typically 2400 lbs (1088 kg) with proper towing package. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Overall Rating: 5-Star (for models equipped with optional EyeSight, though EyeSight was not widely available in early SJ generation). IIHS Top Safety Pick: Yes (for most configurations). Active Features AWD: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced traction and stability. ABS: Anti-lock Braking System Ebd: Electronic Brake-force Distribution Esc: Electronic Stability Control (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC) Traction Control: Traction Control System (TCS) Passive Features Airbags: Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (front and rear). Seatbelts: 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters. Child Anchors: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit Options: Standard CD player with auxiliary input, optional touchscreen infotainment with navigation (Harman Kardon audio systems available). Bluetooth Connectivity: Available on higher trim levels for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Driver Assistance Eyesight Availability: EyeSight driver assistance system (adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning) was introduced later in the SH generation and was less common on 2012-2013 models, more prevalent on the subsequent SJ generation. Rear View Camera: Optional on some trims, standard on others. Connectivity Usb Port: Available on higher trim levels for device charging and media playback. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months for severe driving, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months for normal driving (refer to manual for specific conditions). Engine Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Cabin Air Filter: Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Spark Plugs Replacement: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for Iridium spark plugs. Transmission Fluid...