Subaru Subaru Forester 2003-2008 Fuel System Specifications
Explore detailed fuel specifications for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester, including fuel type, tank capacity, economy, and emission standards. Ideal for maintenance, performance tuning, and troubleshooting.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed fuel specifications for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester. It includes information on fuel types, fuel economy, tank capacity, and emissions standards. Use this guide to understand the vehicle's fuel requirements and performance. The document is organized into sections for easy navigation, with a quick reference table for key specifications.
How to Use
Use the search function to find specific terms or phrases related to fuel specifications. Enter keywords like 'fuel type' or 'tank capacity' to quickly locate relevant information.
Navigate through the document using the section titles and subsections. Each section is labeled clearly, and subsections provide detailed points for easy reference.
Key Specifications
Fuel Type
Regular Unleaded (87+ octane)
Fuel Tank Capacity
15.9 gallons
City MPG
20-22 MPG
Highway MPG
26-28 MPG
Combined MPG
23-24 MPG
Available Specifications
Fuel Types and Requirements
This section covers the types of fuel recommended for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester, including octane ratings and any specific requirements for optimal performance.
Fuel Types and Requirements
This section covers the types of fuel recommended for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester, including octane ratings and any specific requirements for optimal performance.
Recommended Fuel Type
- Regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher
- Premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher) recommended for turbocharged models
- Avoid using diesel or ethanol blends above 10%
- Use of fuel additives is not required but may improve performance
Fuel System Specifications
- Multi-port fuel injection system
- Fuel pump pressure: 43.5 psi (300 kPa)
- Fuel filter located under the vehicle near the fuel tank
- Fuel tank material: high-density polyethylene
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
This section provides details on the fuel economy ratings for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester, including city, highway, and combined MPG estimates.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
This section provides details on the fuel economy ratings for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester, including city, highway, and combined MPG estimates.
EPA Fuel Economy Ratings
- City: 20-22 MPG
- Highway: 26-28 MPG
- Combined: 23-24 MPG
- Turbocharged models may have slightly lower MPG
Factors Affecting Fuel Efficiency
- Driving habits (e.g., aggressive acceleration reduces efficiency)
- Vehicle maintenance (e.g., clean air filters improve MPG)
- Tire pressure (underinflated tires decrease fuel economy)
- Environmental conditions (e.g., cold weather reduces efficiency)
Fuel Tank and Capacity
This section outlines the fuel tank specifications for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester, including capacity, materials, and refueling tips.
Fuel Tank and Capacity
This section outlines the fuel tank specifications for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester, including capacity, materials, and refueling tips.
Fuel Tank Capacity
- Standard fuel tank capacity: 15.9 gallons (60.2 liters)
- Reserve capacity: approximately 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters)
- Fuel gauge accuracy may vary based on driving conditions
- Refuel when the fuel light illuminates to avoid running out of fuel
Refueling Tips
- Use the correct fuel grade as specified in the owner's manual
- Avoid overfilling the tank to prevent fuel spillage
- Ensure the fuel cap is securely tightened after refueling
- Check for fuel leaks or odors after refueling
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Component Specifications
Overview
- Type
- Gasoline
- Octane Rating
- 87 (regular) or 91 (premium) recommended
- Fuel System
- Sequential multi-port fuel injection
- Tank Capacity
- 15.9 gallons (60.2 liters)
- Fuel Economy
- 20-27 mpg city/highway (varies by model year and trim)
Dimensions
- Tank Length
- 34.5 inches (87.6 cm)
- Tank Width
- 22.8 inches (57.9 cm)
- Tank Height
- 12.4 inches (31.5 cm)
- Filler Neck Diameter
- 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
- Fuel Line Diameter
- 0.375 inches (9.5 mm)
- Fuel Pump Flow Rate
- 120 liters per hour (31.7 gallons per hour)
- Fuel Filter Pore Size
- 10 microns
Materials
- Tank Material
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
- Fuel Lines
- Nitrile rubber with steel braiding
- Filler Neck
- Galvanized steel
- Fuel Pump
- Thermoplastic housing with stainless steel components
- Fuel Filter
- Cellulose and resin composite
Features
- Fuel Delivery
-
- Electronic fuel injection
- Returnless fuel system
- Variable fuel pressure control
- Emissions Control
-
- Evaporative emissions system
- Charcoal canister
- OBD-II compliant
- Safety
-
- Rollover valve
- Impact-resistant fuel tank
- Automatic fuel shutoff
- Monitoring
-
- Fuel level sensor
- Low fuel warning light
- Fuel consumption display
- Maintenance
-
- Replaceable fuel filter
- Serviceable fuel pump
- Accessible fuel lines
Safety Features
- Tank Protection
-
- Impact-resistant design
- Shielded fuel lines
- Fire Prevention
-
- Automatic fuel shutoff
- Flame arrestor in filler neck
- Leak Prevention
-
- Sealed fuel system
- Pressure relief valve
Comfort Features
- Refueling
-
- Easy-access fuel door
- Lockable fuel cap
- Fuel gauge accuracy
- Driving
-
- Smooth fuel delivery
- Consistent performance
- Low noise operation
- Maintenance
-
- Easy filter replacement
- Accessible fuel pump
- Clear service intervals
Accessories
- Aftermarket
-
- High-flow fuel pumps
- Performance fuel filters
- Fuel system cleaners
- Oem
-
- Genuine Subaru fuel caps
- OEM fuel pumps
- Factory fuel filters
- Tools
-
- Fuel pressure tester
- Fuel line disconnect tool
- Fuel tank cleaning kit
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect fuel lines for leaks
- Check fuel pump operation
- Replace fuel filter
- Clean fuel injectors
- Inspect fuel tank for damage
- Maintenance Notes
- Use only recommended fuel types and additives
Warranty
- Basic
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Fuel system components
- Powertrain
- Miles: 60,000Years: 5Coverage: Fuel pump and injectors
- Emissions
- Miles: 80,000Years: 8Coverage: Evaporative emissions system
- Corrosion
- Miles: UnlimitedYears: 5Coverage: Fuel tank and lines
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Subaru Corporation
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Injection molding for fuel tank
- Robotic assembly for fuel pump
- Precision machining for injectors
- Quality Control
- Pressure Testing: 100% of fuel tanksFlow Testing: Every fuel pumpLeak Testing: Complete fuel system
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled materials in fuel tank
- Low-emission manufacturing
- Eco-friendly packaging
- Production Metrics
- Annual Output: 500,000 unitsDefect Rate: Less than 0.1%Energy Efficiency: 15% improvement since 2003
Service Information for fuel Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to the fuel system
- Inspect fuel lines and connections
- Check fuel pump operation
- Replace fuel filter
- Test fuel pressure
- Inspect fuel tank for damage
Use only Subaru-approved fuel system cleaners
- Replace fuel filter
- Clean fuel injectors
- Inspect evaporative emissions system
- Check fuel tank straps
- Test fuel pressure regulator
May require special tools for fuel system diagnostics
- Replace fuel pump assembly
- Inspect and clean fuel tank
- Replace all fuel lines
- Test injector flow rates
- Perform complete fuel system diagnostic
Critical to use OEM parts for fuel system components
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 What type of fuel is recommended for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester?
What type of fuel is recommended for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester?
The 2003-2008 Subaru Forester is designed to run on unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Using premium fuel (91 octane or higher) is not required but may improve performance in certain conditions. Avoid using diesel or ethanol blends above 10%, as they can damage the engine and fuel system.
Q2 What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the fuel system?
What is the recommended maintenance schedule for the fuel system?
The fuel system in the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester requires regular maintenance. Replace the fuel filter every 30,000 miles and inspect the fuel lines for leaks or wear annually. Use fuel injector cleaner every 15,000 miles to maintain optimal performance. Always follow the owner's manual for specific intervals and procedures.
Q3 How do I replace the fuel pump in a 2003-2008 Subaru Forester?
How do I replace the fuel pump in a 2003-2008 Subaru Forester?
To replace the fuel pump, first, disconnect the battery and relieve fuel system pressure. Remove the rear seat cushion to access the fuel pump assembly. Disconnect the electrical connectors and fuel lines, then unscrew the retaining ring. Carefully remove the old pump, install the new one, and reassemble in reverse order. Test for leaks before driving.
Q4 What should I do if my Forester has poor fuel economy?
What should I do if my Forester has poor fuel economy?
Poor fuel economy can result from clogged fuel injectors, a dirty air filter, or incorrect tire pressure. Start by checking and replacing the air filter if necessary. Use a fuel injector cleaner and ensure tires are inflated to the recommended PSI. If issues persist, inspect the oxygen sensors and spark plugs for wear.
Q5 How can I optimize fuel efficiency in my 2003-2008 Subaru Forester?
How can I optimize fuel efficiency in my 2003-2008 Subaru Forester?
To optimize fuel efficiency, maintain proper tire pressure, use the recommended fuel grade, and avoid excessive idling. Regularly replace air filters and spark plugs, and ensure the engine is tuned correctly. Driving at steady speeds and reducing unnecessary weight in the vehicle can also improve mileage.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
2003-2008 Subaru Forester Service Manual
Coming SoonComprehensive guide covering maintenance, repairs, and technical specifications for the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester.
Subaru Technical Service Bulletin: Fuel System Updates
Coming SoonDetails updates and fixes for common fuel system issues in the 2003-2008 Subaru Forester.
Subaru Forester Parts and Accessories Catalog
Coming SoonCatalog listing OEM and aftermarket parts, including fuel system components, for the 2003-2008 Forester.
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