2002 Subaru Forester BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Service Intervals & Specifications: Notes

INSPECTION & REPLACEMENT INTERVALS

Component Interval (Miles)
Air Filter (1) 30,000
Automatic Transmission Fluid (2)(12) 30,000
Brake Fluid (3) 30,000
Brake Shoe Linings & Drums (4) 30,000
Camshaft Timing Belt
2.0L & 2.5L 30,000
3.0L (5)
Clutch (6) 15,000
Coolant (Radiator) 30,000
Disc Brake Pads & Discs, Front & Rear Axle Boots & Shaft Joint Portions (4) 15,000
Drive Belt(s) (6) 30,000
Front & Rear Wheel Bearing Lubrication (6) 60,000
Fuel Filter (4)(7)(11) 30,000
Inspect Brake Lines & Check Operation Of Parking & Service Brake System (6) 15,000
Oil & Filter (8) 7,500
Rotate & Inspect Tires (9) 7,500
Spark Plugs
2.0L & 2.5L 30,000
3.0L 60,000
Steering & Suspension (4) 15,000
Supplemental Restraint System (6) Every 10 Years
Transmission & Differential (Front & Rear) Fluid (2) 30,000
Valve Clearance (10)
(1) When the vehicle is used in extremely dusty conditions, the air cleaner element should be replaced more often.
(2) When the vehicle is frequently operated under severe driving conditions, replacement should be performed every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
(3) When the vehicle is used in high humidity or mountainous areas, change the brake fluid every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 15 months, whichever occurs first.
(4) When the vehicle is used under severe driving conditions, inspection should be performed every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 7 1/2 months, whichever occurs first.
(5) Periodic inspection and replacement of the camshaft drive chains on the 3.0L models is not required.
(6) Inspect.
(7) When the vehicle is used in extremely cold or hot weather areas, contamination of the filter may occur and filter replacement should be performed more often.
(8) When the vehicle is used under severe driving conditions, the engine oil and filter should be changed every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or three months.
(9) A tire should be replaced when the tread wear indicator appears as a solid band across the tread; this occurres when the remaining tread has worn to 0.063 inches (1.6 mm) or less.
(10) N/A.
(11) This inspection is not required to maintain emission warranty eligibility and it does not affect the manufacturers obligations under EPAs in use compliance program.
(12) The ATF filter is a maintenance free part. The ATF filter needs replacement only when it has physical damage or if the ATF has leaked.
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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