where is the starter on a 2003 subaru forrester

It is mounted on the transmission. If you look at the engine from the front of the car it will be to the right where the engine and transmission meet. Here is a photo that shows the starter if you look closely.

Open the hood. Walk over to the left (driver) side, and look at the top rear of the motor under the windshield, following the large cable from the battery to the starter solenoid. Getting at the bottom bolt to remove is the trick...best done from underneath on a lift. Otherwise it's duck soup. Note that often the starter CONTACTS wear out first, and are easily replaced once you remove it. Easy way to check is to tap the starter with a wrench or something while cranking: if it cranks intermittently it's probably just the $15 copper contacts. Have fun with that lower bolt!