2004 Subaru Legacy Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Should You Buy the 2004 Subaru Legacy?
The 2004 Subaru Legacy is a capable, all-wheel-drive sedan that can be a great value if you understand its specific Achilles' heels. While often lauded for its robust AWD system and durable drivetrain once common issues are addressed, neglecting critical maintenance, particularly concerning the engine, can quickly turn it into a money pit. This vehicle demands a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a clear service history to truly offer dependable long-term ownership.
Biggest Strengths
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides superior traction
- Robust frame and excellent crash safety ratings for its era
- Generally durable transmissions if regularly serviced
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2004 Subaru Legacy. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
11 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
What breaks on the 2004 Subaru Legacy?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Subaru Legacy by Year
Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Subaru Legacy. Click any year for its full report.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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