Are 2004 subarus reliable?
Generally, yes: 2004 Subarus are capable and dependable with proper maintenance, especially for daily driving and family use. The main caveat is the 2.5-liter engine’s head gasket vulnerability in older units and the inevitable aging of components as the car accumulates mileage.
Overview of the 2004 Subaru lineup and reliability expectations
In 2004, Subaru offered a range of all‑wheel‑drive models that shared robust engineering but required attentive maintenance to keep running smoothly. The lineup included the compact Impreza, the wagon/crossover Outback, the midsize Legacy sedan/wagon, and the Baja pickup. While each model had its quirks, reliability tended to hinge on maintenance history, mileage, and how well key parts—such as timing belts and head gaskets—were cared for over time.
- Impreza (sedan/hatchback) — commonly powered by the 2.5-liter engine in non-WRX versions; praised for handling and affordability, with head gasket risk a consideration in some high-mileage examples.
- Legacy (sedan/wagon) — available with 2.5-liter and, in some trims, a 3.0-liter H6; spacious and comfortable, reliability highly dependent on maintenance and proper cooling system care.
- Outback (wagon/ crossover) — typically similar powertrains to the Legacy, with a practicality focus and strong AWD performance; reliability tied to service history and mileage.
- Baja (pickup) — a rare variant sharing the 2.5-liter engine with Subaru’s AWD family; reliability patterns mirror the Impreza, with maintenance history playing a large role.
As a result, owners who kept up with maintenance—especially cooling system, timing belt/water pump service, and addressing oil leaks—tended to report solid long‑haul reliability across these models. Those who skipped routine upkeep often faced more frequent repairs as miles climbed.
Common reliability concerns for 2004 Subarus
Understanding the typical trouble spots helps buyers and current owners evaluate aging examples.
- Head gasket risk on the 2.5-liter EJ25 engine, particularly if overheating occurred or the car has high mileage.
- Oil leaks from front or rear engine seals and cam seals, which can mimic head gasket symptoms without actually failing it.
- Timing belt maintenance: the 2.5-liter engines use a timing belt that requires replacement around 105,000 miles (intervals can vary by model and maintenance history).
- Automatic transmission concerns in older 4EAT units, including shifting wear or eventual transmission service needs; manual transmissions are generally robust but clutch wear is expected with mileage.
- Wear on wheel bearings, CV joints, and other drive‑train components as the vehicle ages.
- Rust and underbody corrosion in climates that use road salt, plus potential frame or exhaust system corrosion in older examples.
With diligent maintenance and early attention to cooling system health and leaks, many 2004 Subarus continue to perform reliably into the higher mileages. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a detailed service history are essential for evaluating a specific used example.
What to check when buying a used 2004 Subaru
Before you buy, conduct a careful check to assess condition and potential future repair costs. The following checklist helps focus on common aging issues and required maintenance.
- Service history: look for records of timing belt replacement, water pump, cooling system work, head gasket service (if applicable), and any transmission or drivetrain service.
- Inspect for oil and coolant leaks and verify whether oil consumption has been excessive on the 2.5L engines.
- Compression test across all cylinders to gauge engine health and detect potential head gasket issues.
- Coolant condition and cross‑checking for mixing with oil (often a sign of head gasket problems) and verify radiator and hoses are in good shape.
- Timing belt/water pump replacement status and belt/tensioner condition; if not done, plan for service at the recommended interval.
- Transmission evaluation: test drive to assess smooth shifts, check for slipping, and consider a transmission fluid service history for automatics.
- AWD and differential behavior: verify proper engagement and absence of unusual noises or vibrations during acceleration and cornering.
- Rust assessment: inspect doors, rockers, frame rails, and underbody for corrosion, especially in salt-prone regions.
- Recall status and technical service bulletins (TSBs): check VIN against NHTSA or Subaru service databases for open recalls or known issues.
Having a trusted mechanic or a Subaru‑specialist perform a pre‑purchase inspection can identify issues not obvious in a road test, and can save money and headaches later.
Maintenance practices to maximize reliability
Regular, proactive maintenance is the best way to ensure a 2004 Subaru remains dependable as it ages. The following practices are commonly recommended by dealers and experienced independent shops.
- Follow the factory maintenance schedule, with special attention to cooling system service and belt/water pump replacement intervals.
- Replace the timing belt, tensioners, and water pump at the manufacturer’s recommended mileage interval to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
- Use high‑quality oil and filters, and stick to the recommended oil change intervals based on driving conditions.
- Keep the cooling system in good shape: inspect hoses, radiator, radiator cap, and coolant levels; address overheating promptly.
- Monitor oil leaks and address cam seals, rear main seal, or gasket leaks early to prevent engine damage.
- For automatics, schedule transmission fluid services as recommended and watch for unusual shifting or transmission overheating symptoms.
- Inspect brakes, suspension components, wheel bearings, and CV joints regularly; replace worn parts promptly.
- Address rust-prone areas and maintain frame integrity with attention to underbody protection in salty or coastal environments.
With disciplined maintenance, a 2004 Subaru can continue to serve reliably for many miles, though ownership costs will reflect age and mileage, particularly for major service items like the head gasket, timing belt, and drivetrain components.
Long‑term ownership and cost considerations
Owners tend to find that the total cost of ownership decreases when preventive maintenance is kept up and when problems are diagnosed early. Parts for older Subarus are generally available, and independent shops with experience in Subarus can often provide cost-effective service. However, at higher mileages, expect potential major repairs related to aging gaskets, seals, and drivetrains, which can influence overall ownership costs.
Summary
2004 Subarus are broadly capable and reliable if they have been well cared for. The most common reliability concerns revolve around head gasket risk on the 2.5L engines, timing belt maintenance, and aging drivetrain components. A careful purchasing approach—favoring good maintenance history, documented timing belt service, and a clean drivetrain—coupled with diligent ongoing maintenance, tends to yield the best long‑term reliability from these aging but still capable all‑wheel‑drive vehicles.
Bottom line: a 2004 Subaru can be a solid, dependable car choice for the right buyer, particularly for enthusiasts who value AWD performance and are prepared to maintain it proactively.
How long will a 2004 Subaru Outback last?
200,000 to 300,000 miles
On average, a well-maintained Subaru Outback can last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles! For perspective, this means if you drive about 12,000 miles per year, your Subaru Outback could easily last 16 to 20 years.
Is 2004 a good year for a Subaru Forester?
As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and performance to be its strongest features and styling to be its weakest. 262 out of 403 of owners (65% of them) rank the 2004 Forester five out of five stars. Overall, consumers seem aligned in their opinions of the 2004 Subaru Forester.
What years did Subaru have a bad engine?
Although Subaru has been challenged with engine issues, most of the issues were isolated to a few engines, namely the EJs that were in the Impreza, Forester, Legacy, Outback and Baja models between 1996 and 2005. The latest Subaru boxer engines are part of the FB series boxer engines.
What year to stay away from a Subaru Outback?
Years to avoid for the Subaru Outback include 2010–2014, which had widespread CVT, oil consumption, and oil leak issues, and 2018, which had recalls and reliability concerns. Additionally, some sources recommend avoiding the 2005–2007 models due to head gasket problems and the 2020 model, which had electrical and windshield issues.
Years to avoid
- 2010–2014: These models are frequently cited for significant transmission issues (CVT), oil consumption, and general reliability problems. The 2010 model specifically had issues with the torque converter locking up.
- 2018: This year saw recalls and owner complaints related to oil consumption, exhaust components, and electrical issues.
- 2005–2007: These models are known for head gasket failures, which can cause coolant and oil leaks.
- 2020: This model year is associated with a high number of electrical problems, including dead batteries and stalling, as well as issues with the windshield cracking from small chips.
Other potential problem years
- 2013: Frequently mentioned for oil consumption issues.
- 2015: Some reports list it with electrical and engine problems.
- 2017: Reliability issues were noted.
