2004 Subaru Forester

The 2004 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its reliability, practicality, and standard all-wheel drive. The most common engine option for this year is the 2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. A turbocharged 2.5L engine was available in the XT trim. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Forester for its cargo space, all-weather capability, and longevity. Common complaints include its relatively bland styling, fuel economy, and the potential for some age-related maintenance issues.

Engine

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated (EJ251/EJ253)

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, “sweet” smell of coolant, external coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of head gaskets. Machining of cylinder head surfaces may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light (typically P0420), poor fuel economy, reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor (either upstream or downstream).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, stalling, poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255) (XT Trim)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive oil consumption, whining noise from the turbocharger, smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, “sweet” smell of coolant, external coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of head gaskets. Machining of cylinder head surfaces may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping/Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, harsh or erratic shifting.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may help in mild cases. More severe cases may require valve body repair or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts. Often done in conjunction with strut replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Sagging/Weak Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded. Reduced ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating correctly, slow movement, intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor or regulator. Repair of wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated, loss of ABS functionality.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially Rear Wheel Arches and Rocker Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on body panels, particularly around the rear wheel wells and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair and painting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per panel depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (cover) - $1,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 Subaru Forester, while generally reliable, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most prevalent issues revolve around the engine, particularly head gasket failure in both the naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions. Automatic transmission problems, suspension wear, and electrical glitches are also frequently reported. Rust can be a concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. The severity of these issues can range from relatively inexpensive repairs to more costly engine or transmission work. Buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle, pay attention to any warning signs, and obtain a pre-purchase inspection to assess the overall condition and potential repair needs.