2004 Subaru Legacy

The 2004 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan and wagon known for its standard all-wheel drive, practicality, and reliability. Engine options include a 2.5-liter SOHC naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter SOHC turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the Legacy’s all-weather capability and comfortable ride. Some criticisms include the relatively bland styling and fuel economy.

Engine

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, bubbling in the coolant reservoir.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gaskets. It is often recommended to have the cylinder heads resurfaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, rattling noise from the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L SOHC Turbocharged

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or grinding noise from the turbocharger, check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, bubbling in the coolant reservoir.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gaskets. It is often recommended to have the cylinder heads resurfaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or slipping during acceleration, especially at highway speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter, and potentially flushing of the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, getting stuck in a gear, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty shift solenoid(s)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise from the rear of the vehicle, especially noticeable at higher speeds. Noise may change when turning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the suspension, especially over bumps. Reduced ride comfort and handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced fuel economy, rough idling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery light on, difficulty starting, stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially in areas with road salt)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the body panels, undercarriage, and around wheel wells.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of affected panels. Rust prevention treatments.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable depending on severity. $200 - $2,000+ per panel.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Subaru Legacy, while generally reliable, has some common issues to watch out for. The most significant issues are head gasket failures and turbocharger failures which can be costly to repair. Suspension components such as wheel bearings and strut mounts can also be a problem. Rust can also be a problem. Overall, potential buyers should inspect the vehicle carefully and be prepared for potential repairs.