2004 Subaru Forester

Introduction

The 2004 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its reliability, off-road capability, and spacious interior. It is offered with two engine options: a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine and a 2.5L turbocharged engine. Both engines are paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

People like the Forester for its versatility, affordability, and all-wheel drive system. However, some common issues have been reported with the vehicle.

Engine

2.0L Naturally Aspirated Engine

• Head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged Engine

• Turbocharger failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive oil consumption, loud noise from turbocharger
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, hesitation during acceleration
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise, excessive bounce, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting vehicle, flickering lights, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle will not start, dashboard lights dim or flicker
  • Solution: Test battery and charging system, replace battery if necessary
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fog light failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Fog lights not working, condensation inside fog light housing
  • Solution: Replace fog light assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door handle failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks or becomes loose
  • Solution: Replace door handle assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center console vibration
  • Description/Symptoms: Center console rattles or vibrates
  • Solution: Install sound dampening material or tighten screws
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

(Summary) The 2004 Subaru Forester is a reliable vehicle, but it has some known issues that should be considered before purchasing one. Engine issues, such as head gasket failure and turbocharger failure, can be expensive to repair. Transmission problems can also be costly. However, many of the other issues, such as suspension and electrical issues, are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix.