2003 SUBARU Forester EJ20/EJ25 (SF5/SF9)
SF5/SF9 / Compact SUV / Global (main markets: Japan, North America, Europe, Australia)
EJ20EJ25Exakter Jahres-/Varianten-DatensatzSilver
Engine identity
Oils and fluids
Service and parts data
Common and chronic problems
- Head gasket leaks especially on EJ25 engines
- Timing belt wear (replace every 100,000 km recommended)
First checks
- Check timing belt for wear and replacement history
- Inspect head gasket condition
- Verify condition of cooling system
Vor dem Teiletausch
- Save fault codes and freeze-frame data before clearing anything.
- Check engine oil, coolant and transmission fluid using the correct temperature and service procedure.
- Verify power, ground, connectors, hoses, leaks and live data before replacing expensive parts.
Important notes
- The 2003 Forester is the first year of the facelifted first generation (SF) in many markets.
- Engine and transmission options vary significantly by market: EJ20 turbo primarily in Japan/Australia, while North America mostly had EJ25 NA engines.