Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2002 Subaru Forester BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Service Limit
Make a measurement as follows. If it exceeds the specified service limit, replace the parts with new ones.
CAUTION:
- Fix oil pump on a vise to make a measurement. At this time, hold oil pump with the least possible force between two wood pieces.
- Do not set outside of flow control valve or pulley on a vise; otherwise outside or pulley might be deformed. Select properly sized wood pieces.
- Play of pulley shaft
On condition:
- P: 9.8 N (1.0 kgf, 2.2 lb)
Service limit:
- Radial play: 0.4 mm (0.016 in) or less
- Axial play: 0.9 mm (0.035 in) or less
- Ditch deflection of pulley
- Service limit: 1.0 mm (0.039 in) or less
NOTE: Read the value for one surface of V ditch, and then the value for another off the dial.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
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.