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Is 2004 a good year for a Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester is a popular compact SUV that has been in production since 1997. While the 2004 model year is generally considered a good year for the Forester, there are a few factors to consider when determining if it's the right choice for your needs.


Reliability and Performance


The 2004 Subaru Forester is known for its reliability and solid performance. Subaru's reputation for building durable, all-wheel-drive vehicles is well-deserved, and the 2004 Forester is no exception. According to consumer reviews, the 2004 model is one of the more reliable years for the Forester, with few major mechanical issues reported.,


The 2004 Forester came equipped with a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder "boxer" engine that produced 165 horsepower. This engine provided adequate power for most driving situations, and the standard all-wheel-drive system gave the Forester good traction and handling, especially in inclement weather.


Safety and Features


Safety was a priority for the 2004 Subaru Forester, which came standard with features like front airbags, side-impact airbags, and anti-lock brakes. The Forester also earned good safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).p>

In terms of features, the 2004 Forester came in several trim levels, with options like power windows, locks, and mirrors, as well as a CD player and cruise control. Higher-end trims added features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a premium audio system.


Drawbacks and Considerations


While the 2004 Subaru Forester is generally a reliable and capable vehicle, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:



  • Fuel economy: The 2004 Forester's fuel economy, at an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, may not be as efficient as some newer compact SUVs.li>
  • Cargo space: The 2004 Forester has a relatively small cargo area compared to some of its competitors, with just 33.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats.

  • Ride quality: Some owners have reported that the 2004 Forester's ride can be a bit stiff, especially on rougher roads.


Overall, the 2004 Subaru Forester is a solid choice for a used compact SUV, particularly for those who value reliability, all-wheel-drive capability, and safety. However, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences to determine if the 2004 Forester is the right fit for you.

How long do 2004 Subaru Foresters last?


Forester: The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that offers a perfect blend of utility, comfort, and durability. Forester models are known for their long-lasting performance, with many drivers achieving 200,000 miles with minimal issues.



Does a 2004 Forester have a timing belt or chain?


Simply, then, a 1997 to 2011 Forester will have a timing belt, while any of the fourth-gen Foresters (from 2013 or later) will have a timing chain.



How many miles should you get out of a Subaru Forester?


200,000 to 250,000 miles
On average, a well-maintained Subaru Forester can last anywhere from 200,000 to 250,000 miles. For perspective, this means if you drive about 12,000 miles per year, your Forester could easily last 16 to 20 years!



Was 2004 a good year for Subaru Forester?


Among the 402 owners who provided feedback on the 2004 Subaru Forester for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 85% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and performance to be its strongest features and styling to be its weakest.



What is the most reliable Subaru Forester year?


Second Generation (2003-2008): Owner satisfaction scores are high for the 2003-2006 model years and moderate for 2007 and 2008. Although 2003 had three recalls (the most of any model year from this generation), it ranked highest for reliability. Our nod for best from this group is the 2003 model year.



Are 2004 subarus reliable?


Extremely reliable car
Rating breakdown (out of 5): Comfort 5.0. Interior 4.0. Performance 4.0.



At what mileage do Subarus go bad?


The longevity of Subaru vehicles can vary based on factors such as maintenance, driving conditions, and overall care. In McKinney and surrounding areas, many Subaru owners report their cars lasting between 200,000 to 300,000 miles, or about 10 to 15 years, without major issues, particularly with regular servicing.



Can Subaru Forester last 300000 miles?


Well, that's where the Forester's longevity comes in. You might pay top dollar for a used Subaru Forester, but that's because it's built to last. Some first-generation Foresters can still be found on the road today with their wagon body styles and a likely 300,000 plus miles on their odometers.



What is the most reliable Subaru model?


"Of Subaru's seven models in our survey, two—the Forester and Impreza—have well-above-average reliability scores, while the Crosstrek, Legacy, Outback, and Ascent rate above average and average. "



What mileage do subarus start having problems?


Subaru Impreza
Many sources indicate that the Impreza can endure for 15 years, or 150,000 – 200,000 miles, before experiencing serious problems. iSeeCars reports that 9.9% of these models even exceed the 250,000-mile mark.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.