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2004 Subaru Outback

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By Research the Car 3 min read

The 2004 Subaru Outback is a versatile wagon known for its standard all-wheel drive, comfortable ride, and ample cargo space. It offers a blend of practicality and ruggedness, making it a popular choice for those seeking adventure or needing a reliable vehicle for various road conditions. Common owner praises include its longevity, off-road capabilities, and fuel efficiency for an AWD vehicle. Common complaints revolve around maintenance costs, particularly concerning head gasket issues and the overall age-related wear and tear of components. The 2004 Outback came with a variety of engine options including the 2.5L SOHC EJ251/EJ253 engine, producing 165 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque, and the 3.0L DOHC EZ30D engine, producing 212 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.

Engine

2.5L SOHC EJ251/EJ253

  • Head Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, external coolant leaks near the head gasket.
    • Solution: Replacement of head gaskets, resurfacing of cylinder heads.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Catalytic Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to catalytic converter efficiency (P0420), reduced engine performance, potential rattling sound.
    • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $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(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L DOHC EZ30D

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers and timing chain cover.
    • Solution: Replace gaskets and seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coil Pack Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty coil pack(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per coil pack
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

  • Slipping or Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, harsh upshifts or downshifts.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair/replacement, or full transmission rebuild/replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, high pedal engagement point.
    • Solution: Clutch replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Self-Leveling Suspension Failure (if equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear suspension, poor ride quality, failure to maintain ride height.
    • Solution: Replacement of self-leveling struts or conversion to standard struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ for replacement of self-leveling struts, $500 - $1000+ for conversion to standard struts.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Control Arm Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or entire control arms.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per control arm
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window fails to move up or down, or moves very slowly.
    • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge), backlighting issues.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
    • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity, from $200 (small spot repair) to $2,000+ (extensive panel replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • HVAC Blower Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor stops working, only works on certain speeds, or makes excessive noise.
    • Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Subaru Outback is a generally reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues related to its age. The most significant concern is the head gasket failure in the 2.5L engine, which can be a costly repair. Other common issues include transmission problems, suspension wear, and electrical malfunctions. Rust can also be a concern, particularly in regions with harsh winter conditions. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, so it’s essential to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic before buying a used 2004 Outback.

Subaru, Outback
Subaru Outback 2004
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