How long does a 2004 Subaru WRX last?

A well-maintained 2004 Subaru WRX can reliably reach 200,000 miles or more, and many examples push beyond 250,000 miles with careful upkeep. The car’s longevity depends on maintenance history, driving habits, climate, and how well turbocharged components have been cared for.

This article examines typical lifespans for the model, common wear points to watch, and practical steps owners can take to maximize a 2004 WRX’s durability while balancing repair costs.

What governs a WRX's longevity

The lifespan of a 2004 WRX hinges on how well the engine, transmission, and supporting systems are maintained, plus how the car has been driven. Below is a snapshot of common mileage ranges and risk areas reported by owners and mechanics:

• Engine and powertrain longevity: With diligent maintenance, many 2004 WRXs reach 200,000–250,000 miles, and some exceed 300,000 miles. The EJ turbocharged engine is robust, but turbo wear, seals, and heat cycling can become noticeable over time. Head gasket issues are less common on the 2.0L engine than on some later Subaru 2.5L setups, but overheating or neglect can still accelerate wear.


• Drivetrain wear: Manual transmissions, clutches, differentials, and CV joints accumulate wear with miles. Clutch life varies widely with driving style, often falling in the 100,000–150,000-mile range for spirited use.


• Major wear points to monitor: The EJ engines use a timing belt; replacement is typically recommended around 105,000 miles, along with a water pump and related seals. Skipping this service can lead to severe engine damage. Fuel injectors, pumps, and rails can wear, but issues are usually manageable with proper fuel, cleaning, and maintenance.


• Turbo system: Turbochargers commonly last 100,000–150,000 miles under normal service; life can shorten with aggressive driving, poor cooling, or insufficient oil changes. Regular oil changes with the correct lubricant are essential.


• Electrical and cooling: Sensors, the ECU, and cooling-system components become more prone to faults as the car ages. Proactive cooling-system maintenance helps prevent overheating-related damage.

In short, the 2004 WRX’s lifespan is highly dose-dependent on routine care: oil changes, timing-belt service, cooling-system upkeep, and handling turbocharged stress all shape how long the car stays reliable.

Maintenance milestones to maximize longevity

To keep a late-model WRX on the road, owners should follow a disciplined maintenance plan. The following milestones are particularly important for a 2004 model with EJ-series hardware.

• Oil and filter every 3,000–5,000 miles (or 5,000–7,500 miles with high-quality synthetic in mild climates). Consistent lubrication protects bearings, pistons, and turbo seals.


• Timing belt (and water pump) replacement around 105,000 miles, or sooner if the vehicle has a history of hard driving or overheating. Include timing belt tensioners and seals during the job.


• Head gasket inspection and cooling-system service if overheating or coolant leaks appear; proactive checks are prudent on high-mileage, turbocharged EJ engines.


• Spark plugs and ignition coils: replace around 100,000–120,000 miles to maintain smooth ignition and boost response.


• Turbo and intercooler upkeep: monitor for oil leaks, clean or replace intercooler hoses as needed, and ensure proper warm-up and cool-down to protect turbo life.


• Transmission and differential service: inspect and replace gear oil as recommended (often every 60,000–100,000 miles); clutch replacement timing depends on use and engagement feel.


• Cooling-system maintenance: flush coolant, replace hoses, and inspect the radiator and thermostat to avert overheating and associated damage.

Sticking to these maintenance practices helps maximize longevity, though it can require a realistic budget for an aging performance car. Careful, proactive service tends to yield the best long-term reliability.

Real-world ownership notes

Owners and technicians often emphasize that the 2004 WRX can be a long-lived daily driver or a spirited enthusiast’s car, provided maintenance is not neglected and upgrades are approached thoughtfully. Some high-mile examples show the model still performing well in daily use, while others accumulate repairs as components age. The common theme is clear: steady, preventive care matters as much as the number on the odometer.

Summary

A 2004 Subaru WRX is capable of lasting into the 200k-mile range and beyond when owners adhere to the recommended service schedule, especially for the timing belt, cooling system, and turbo-related components. Maintaining oil quality, addressing overheating promptly, and planning for scheduled belt and water-pump replacement are crucial. With disciplined maintenance, these early-generation Subaru turbocharged machines can remain durable and enjoyable long after their 100,000-mile mark.

Can Subarus last 300,000 miles?

On average, a well-maintained Subaru Outback can last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles!

How long will a 2004 WRX last?

Despite their sporty nature, WRX and WRX STI models can still provide long-term reliability, lasting 150,000 miles + with proper maintenance and care.

Are 2004 Subaru WRX reliable?

The 2004 Subaru WRX's reliability is mixed, with potential for issues like engine problems and transmission wear, especially if the car has been modified or not maintained properly. However, if kept stock or with proper maintenance and careful driving, the car can be reliable and long-lasting, with many owners reporting positive experiences and high performance for the price. Common issues to look for when buying one include potential head gasket failure, rod knock, and rear wheel bearing failures.
 
This video discusses the reliability of the 2004 WRX and common problems: 54s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Potential issues and maintenance

• Engine: The engine is a point of potential weakness, especially for modified cars. Modifications like tuning can put stress on internal components, leading to problems with rods, rod bearings, pistons, and piston rings. 
• Head Gaskets: A significant concern with WRXs is the possibility of head gasket failure, which can happen even in stock cars. 
• Rod Knock: This is another potential engine issue to watch for, particularly on modified examples. 
• Transmission: The 5-speed manual transmission in the WRX can be a weak point, especially with aggressive driving or modifications. 
• Other issues: Watch for rear wheel bearing failures, which are common and often signaled by a whining sound. 
• Maintenance is key: Proper and frequent maintenance, including regular oil changes and allowing the engine to warm up properly before driving hard, is critical for maintaining reliability. 

What to look for when buying

• Maintenance records: Ask for detailed maintenance records, as a well-maintained car is more likely to be reliable. 
• Signs of modifications: While modifications can increase performance, they can also lead to reliability issues if not done correctly. Inspect for quality parts and proper installation. 
• Signs of hard use: Check for signs of abuse, such as uneven tire wear, which can indicate aggressive driving and potential suspension or alignment issues. 
• Listen for noises: Listen for any unusual noises, such as grinding in the transmission, which could indicate a problem with the synchros. 
• Check for overheating: Inspect the oil dipstick and radiator overflow tank for signs of oil in the coolant, which can point to an overheating problem or head gasket failure. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the common problems with the 2004 Subaru WRX: 48sCashedOutCarsYouTube · Dec 21, 2021
Overall

• Stock vs. Modified: A stock, well-maintained 2004 WRX is generally more reliable than a modified one. The key to reliability is proper maintenance and not pushing the car too hard, especially if modified. 
• Still a good buy: Despite potential issues, the 2004 WRX is still considered an amazing car for its price, performance, and practicality by many owners, as long as the buyer is aware of the potential pitfalls and is prepared to do the necessary maintenance. 

What is the life expectancy of a WRX?

A Subaru WRX can last from 100,000 to over 200,000 miles, with its lifespan heavily depending on maintenance, driving habits, and a bit of luck. Consistent, regular maintenance is crucial for longevity, as is avoiding frequent, hard driving and modifications that can stress the engine. 
Factors affecting lifespan

• Maintenance: Sticking to a strict maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, fluid checks, and replacing wear-and-tear items like the timing belt, is the most important factor for long-term reliability. 
• Driving habits: A WRX that is driven aggressively, "redlined" frequently, or launched hard, especially when not at operating temperature, will wear out faster. A more moderate driving style will contribute to a longer-lasting vehicle. 
• Modifications: While many enthusiasts modify their WRXs, certain aftermarket modifications can negatively impact the car's lifespan if not installed and tuned correctly. 
• Model year: While the general range is similar, some model years may have specific known issues. For instance, some engines (like the FA engine) may require more intensive labor for certain repairs. 
• Luck: As with any car, sometimes a component can fail unexpectedly due to unforeseen issues, regardless of maintenance. 

Common wear-and-tear items

• Clutch: The clutch, throwout bearing, and transmission are common wear items that may need replacement, especially on manual transmission models. 
• Brakes and suspension: These are considered normal maintenance items for any car and will need periodic replacement. 
• Turbo and hoses: The turbo can be a point of failure around 100,000 to 180,000 miles, while hoses may need replacement over time, especially in older vehicles.