Used 2004 Subaru Forester Consumer Reviews
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A niche car, but fits perfectly in it.
speedysteve, 02/08/2012
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
40 of 42 people found this review helpful
I've owned my Forester XT for 6 years now, and it has been a very fun car. The only repair I've had is the alternator. It's far faster than it looks and I love being able to floor it on the highway in 5th and it just goes. It looks good, carries a fair amount of stuff when I go camping, and is great in the snow.
2.5X
Deacon Allan J. Frederiksen, 02/19/2015
updated 02/21/2018
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
47 of 50 people found this review helpful
This car served me well for 10 years 11 months and 174,000 miles. Reliable from start to "finish". Routine maintenance is a bit expensive. Only mechanical failure was a U joint in drive shaft at 153,000 miles. When timing belt was originally replaced at 82,500 miles also replaced head gaskets. Did not do so when timing belt was replaced at 165,000 miles and at 168,000 miles a very slight oil leakage began (to the tune of 1 quart per 3,000 miles.) Decided to trade in at 174,000 miles. This car went to 28 of our 50 states.
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Speak softly, carry a big stick!
Nuvolari, 02/09/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
18 of 19 people found this review helpful
This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. There is little turbo-lag, the gears are well matched to the engine. It's a comfortable car for something of its modest exterior dimensions and is extremely maneuverable in tight spots despite high cargo volume and practicality. Fit and finish is superior. Every car is a compromise: Subaru has attained perfection. You can buy a slightly faster sports car that is far less practical. You can buy a slightly more comfortable euro wagon that is twice as expensive. You can buy a minivan that's somewhat more practical but completely not fun to drive.
Excellent winter vehicle, though slightly underpowered
ruslan, 12/28/2010
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
23 of 25 people found this review helpful
Generally speaking, it is a great small utility vehicle that that drives like a car. It is an excellent winter vehicle, but it is not best for highway driving. It lacks power for comfortable passing, and down-shift is on the slow side. And, highway wind and road noise are on the noisier side. I took it for a 4000mile/6000km drive from Canada to California. It handled nicely when it was +24C and during winter blizzard when I-15 got closed for hours. I haven't had major problems with the vehicle, except sunroof does no longer work. And, parts and service are a bit expensive, especially in Canada.
Trade Up
fotd, 02/08/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
I traded my '03 X for an '04 XT. I loved the X and feel the same about the XT. The icrease in power is just what the doctor ordered. Plenty of power throughout the rev range. Hardly any turbo lag. Good tourqe for driving in the PA mountains. I never thought the fastest car I ever owner would be a wagon! (I know it's an SUV) The 5spd is a great match for the turbo motor. Great saftey features. Great "stealth" vehicle. This is truly a "do-it-all" vehicle. Gripes: The Auto Climate control does not work well. No sunroof with a 5spd, what gives? I wish the rear windows were factory tint. All of theses are minimal complaints. Overall I rate this car a 10.
2004 Subaru Forester "Burt"
brooklynjoel, 05/29/2013
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I bought my Forester X "Burt" used in July 2011 from a Subaru Dealer in Rockland County, NY with 107K miles on it. I now have 120K miles on it. It has proven to be a reliable and surprisingly comfortable vehicle. I average about 18 mpg in the city, and around 28 mpg on the highway. This car is one of the most "honest" cars I've ever owned. It just works without fuss or fanfare, and feels solid. I Have done nothing but oil changes, a differential and tranny fluid change, tire rotations, and inspections for maintenance, and Burt goes like a top! I hope to buy a new 2014 Subaru Forester based on my experience with this one, and I am one of the most "brand unloyal" owners out there!
Plain and Simple Truth
juanmafxt, 08/06/2013
updated 08/10/2021
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
26 of 31 people found this review helpful
This is the pioneer of a now trendy sport crossovers. There are a lot of copycats nowadays, but this one is the real thing. Manual transmission, 4.44FD, AWD with 50/50 torque split, STI engine 2.5L, factory turbocharged with low compression pistons, forged rods and crankshaft, disc brakes, LSD and fully independent suspension. Most parts from the WRX and STI are swappable since they share the platform. Tons of aftermarket parts available and can be modified to go very fast with simply an Sti turbo and Sti top mount intercooler. Great sleeper vehicle. Gearing is very tight. Highway cruising at 60mph is about 2500 RPMs. A little high, but conpromises are necessary for such high gearing. Acceleration is aggressive, specialy from 0-30mph. This is a vehicle meant and designed to run on the STI turbo and tmic. The factory small turbine combined with the 4.44 FD allows for even quicker acceleration when compared to the WRX. Sti springs are on the stiff side, so I recommend softer rated ones. Swapping in full STI suspension can take its toll on daily commuting. In terms of reliability, so far I've had window motors that fail, starter failed at 10 years, misfire codes for coilpacks, rack and pinion leaks, and oil leaks. ABs light on, and charcoal canister codes that result in gas pressure nozzle pop out during filling. Very annoying. All in all, it is a very fast, practical, and highly reliable station wagon. The XT variants are very rare, specially during 2004-08 years. Manual versions are even rarer. Very few cars today have the mechanical attributes this vehicle has, rewarding you with a great bargain and collectibility. Did I mention it was Made in Japan? Reliable if kept stock. Can be a handful when modified.
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Why the XT is on 1 of 5 best Trucks 2004
DeathRatel, 02/13/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
When the dealer pulled up w/ a XT I couldn't keep my smile down. I told him all you have to say is: 60 in 5.3!!! This is no simple grocery-getter this is a Mustang, Camaro, and yes Corvetter getter. The "wagon" is the ulimate "Sleeper". The ULTIMATE low-riding, SUV, AWD, MAD-POWER, space-for-all vehicle is at your nearby Subaru dealership. When you go test drive this monster in disguise, try, just try to keep your smile down!!! Happy Cruisin' -Adam
Feeling Subaru safe !
Jay Red Horse, 09/28/2017
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
In the winter of 2016 I hit a patch of black ice while driving a new Dodge Ram 4X4 truck, I hit a snow bank broadside and rolled it into the woods crushing the poor truck. After the insurance company agreed it was a total loss I bought my first used Subaru forester (2004) and I must say I feel a lot safer in a Subaru AWD than I ever did in the Ram. After owning and driving the Forester for 6 months I knew I'd never own another brand from that day forward. When I wear out this one I'll buy my first brand new Subaru Forester. I have already begun to customize mine and there is so much in the way of after market parts on line and in the auto stores. The gas mileage is crazy good and I am getting about 22 city and 27 Hwy. If your sitting on the fence about getting a Subaru DO NOT delay it any longer, I only wish I thought about this brand 40 years ago ahen I started driving.
2004 Forester with lots of power!
Christopher, 05/06/2018
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Have only owned the vehicle for about two months and am very happy with power and performance. I really wanted to get a Forester with large moon roof but unable to find low millage with head gaskets, timing belt, and water pump already done in my price range. I do like the heated seats in my model. Good breaking, prompt and tight steering. Peppy acceleration with my 5 speed manual. My biggest complaint about the vehicle is that the road noise is quite high, especially on the freeway. There appears to be wind or air coming through speaker looking device near mirror on driver's side door, weird. Had to replace two belts within first month of owning car, but when you buy a 2004 vehicle with 113.000 not a big deal.
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Solid Car
zak, 11/01/2006
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
31,000 miles on my 2004 Subaru. Very happy with performance, reliability. Excellent in snow. Researched every car in the class before purchase and am convinced the Subaru Forester best choice.
Solid, Safe & Fun to drive
Dan S., 08/16/2006
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru and though I got it used and have only had it for a couple months, I know I made a good decision. The HUGE sunroof is wonderful. Comes with many safety features and this car sticks to the road like glue. I never anticipated it would be so fun to drive, with responsive handling and such a solid road feel. Interior materials look and feel well thought out and well put together - however there aren't many luxurious bells & whistles, just the necessities. If you want fancy features, this isn't the car for you. If you want fun, safety and moderate room for an active lifestyle, you're in the right place. Car is very well thought out, with an eye towards function.
Forester Turbo
Carlos, 10/10/2006
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is a very good and balanced combination. It is a real AWD, a wagon, a comfortable car, and a sportive machine. Its low center of gravity allow the Forester to have a very safe driving considering the performance of the turbo. In addition this turbo makes it economical (you do not consume much fuel when you do not need much acceleration or speed, but when you need it or want it you have it).
Just what I was looking for...
brian, 01/23/2009
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
13 of 17 people found this review helpful
I do not give this vehicle 10s across the board, but I give it a 10 in what I was looking for. It is not fast. It produces lots of wind noise. It doesn't corner particularly well. It does provide amazing versatility, functional all-wheel drive, and plenty of room for storage. I am an outdoorsy type. I take this vehicle camping, hunting, fishing, biking, and for long distance traveling. I have driven this through sand, mud and water. I accidentally went through an innocuous looking puddle that came up over the hood, and the Forester pulled right through. Am very happy with the Forester and will drive it until the wheels fall off, or I do, whichever comes first.
Luv my Scoobie!
diane, 12/01/2009
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
This little SUV with the Turbo will move when I need it to. It's so handy to haul items, easy to fold seats down, easy to remove the headrests. I love the auto climate control, great stereo. I have great control of car in adverse weather conditions - I feel SAFE driving this car. Doors feel solid when you shut them.
Bought a Low Mileage Scoobaru
Dane Dad, 02/08/2018
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle in Dec. 2017, and despite the fact that it only had 89,400 miles on the odometer and was very clean it did need some $$$$ and TLC to make it a nice reliable vehicle. The automatic transmission (and spin on filter) / differential gear oil / brake fluid needed to be flushed and replaced. It needed a new fuel filter, and a cabin filter. The timing belt, and water pump had just been replaced prior to purchase. This was a NJ vehicle so it was subjected to the NE winters which meant that the ball joints needed to be replaced because the rubber seals had deteriorated. It also has a little bit on the undercarriage which is normal for a 14 year old NJ vehicle. The rack and pinion power steering unit, and the radiator needed to be replaced also and after the repairs, new tires and a 4 wheel alignment it's a very nice smooth ride for a 14 year old vehicle. I purchased a 4 year / unlimited mileage vehicle service contract from Cars Protection Plus at the time of purchase for an additional $1,200, and it saved me $1,000 on the rack and pinion steering unit / radiator / labor so, that seems to have been a good investment for this vehicle. Like virtually all Subaru Foresters in this age group (2002 -2008), this one did suffer from the infamous wind noise problem, but that was easily corrected with some vinyl tubing inserted behind the window weatherstripping, some weather stripping applied to the exterior mirror gussets and some side window deflectors, now it rides just as quietly as a new vehicle.
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Subaru thumps-up
Gerry, 03/21/2017
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Over more than twelve years, I've driven my Forester 165,000 miles. Costliest repair was replacing the head gasket a few years back. Otherwise, maintainence has been relatively pain-free. Average mileage around 25. In cold weather the lifters are noisy. I've been told this is normal with the boxer engine and no damage is being done. Cabin suffers from wind noise when driving on an interstate. Overall, my complaints are minor as I've been well-served by this vehicle. Definitely captured the "utility" in sport UTILITY vehicle.
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What a great mix of performance/utility
Fullserve, 02/27/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have been a performance car enthusiast all of my life. Alas, with a second baby added to the family, it was time to move to something bigger and more "practical." I drove several "good" cars in those categories to replace my Cobra, but none which would make me really happy. Finally, I heard about the XT. WOW is all I have to say! Within one minute I knew I had found the car. This car is a total blast to drive (now that I'm over my break-in!) and I am very impressed so far with the build quality and ride. The AWD is just second to none. Now I look forward to storms coming through! I cannot wait to take it to the mountains to try it in the snow.
Excellent Car!
Charles, 05/13/2008
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This car is a 10 all round. It may seem strange that I gave all 10's but this is purely in consideration of the type of car it is. For performance for example, some may say that it is slow, especially for 165 hp. However, in any conditions with poor traction, it is absolutely essential for good performance (ie not sliding off the road) that power delivery isn't snappy and immediate. Handling is surprisingly good for the type of car it is and this must in part be due to the low center of gravity of the boxer engine.
It's not a station wagon!
T-$, 01/13/2005
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is rock solid. It chews up the lousy road conditions a crummy New England winter can throw at you. No need to shovel your driveway when you have one of these parked in it. This car will crunch its way up the steepest ice covered hill in town. I also love the fact that off the line you can easily smoke those larger SUV's. All of my friends are surprised at the power the Forester has after the take a spin in it. So please people get it straight the Forester XT is not a station wagon - it's a small SUV!
Premature wheel bearing failure
pinging_ej25, 12/04/2009
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought the car new and liked it with respect to driving and its AWD feature. What owners should be aware of is that this is a high maintenance vehicle. Parts like the wheel bearing fail prematurely (<60,000 miles) and can go on undetected for months and years and mistaken as just tire noise. Repair cost is >$450 per wheel.
Expensive parts, noisy on highway, worst car I ever had.
whatwhatwhat1, 01/15/2013
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
12 of 20 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used in 2009. In three years, I spend $2400 in repairs (rear bearings on both sides, head gasket, rocker bars in the front that were recalled, air conditioner compressor) and when I traded it in today for a 2012 Camry, the turbo was smoking and the transmission was on it's way out too. It had 140K miles. Parts are hard to come by, none of the charging ports worked on it and the check engine light was always coming on, which turned off the cruise control. in three years, I got to use the cruise control once. It was a nightmare to own. It was almost impossible to talk on speakerphone on the highway due to the road noise. and the backseat doesn't have any legroom.
Near to perfect design
netmate98, 10/12/2010
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Gas mileage just plain bad, I got the same mileage, 13 mpg, with a 2006 8 cylinder hemi daytona with 360 hp. This has great hp for a 4 cylinder and is very fun wagon to drive. The leather seating is well done. Tilt wheel would raise the comfort level. Better quality front seat back handle control needed. Near perfect interior-exterior design. Window whistle at 45 mph annoying, need window frames. Sacrificing quality for weight savings don't work for me, the aluminum hood takes a beating on the highway. The expensive to fix cd changer radio is a let down.
04 Forester beats the competition
chruser, 01/14/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
replaced my 1999 Forester with the 04 model. What a delightful surprise to see what has happen in 5 yrs. Better interior design, a little higher seating, more comfort, better handling. Plush. Loved the 99, had 75,000 miles and never a problem. Quality and value you come to expect from Suburu. Test drove toyota rav4, honda crv, hyundai sante fe and jeep liberty, and tryed the Subura LAST. None of the competitors could stand up, and I really tryed not to buy another Suburu because I wanted to see if there was something better in that class--dont waste your time--try the Suburu Forester 1st. NO NEED to go further.
The Total Package
Chris & Lisa, 09/13/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This past June, my wife and I recently had a baby and we needed a vehicle with space, safety, and reliability being the primary features. Not wanting to relinquish my youthful sports car days I naturally suggested the WRX wagon. She had her eye on the Forester which at the time didnt have the turbo feature. I loved the WRX for being, well a WRX but we could just not compromise the space the Forester had to offer. Enter the Forester XT. This car was actually FASTER (yes faster) then the WRX and had all the space and comfort we needed to go with an all world safety pedigree. The Subaru Forester XT is the complete total package. Congrats Subaru, well done!!
In the 5th Year I'm still lovin' Subie
Elizabeth, 03/20/2008
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I migrated from a Jeep 6 cyl to the Subaru Forester XT. I was looking for comfort, safety, power, and a great looking ride. I saw my Subie and fell in love. I added the smart mirror and command start, the only two options not already there. The defrosting and seat warmers and that fact my car is smart enough to blow cold air in the winter initially means I never have foggy windows. How much more could I ask for? I'm so glad I made the choice for this head turning vehicle. Each time I fill I am asked about Subie. I draw unusual attention when I cart my 16 foot canoe on top the factory racks.
Impressive engine
Leonardo, 07/30/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought very recently, so no comment about reliability valid at this time. Test drove both the XT turbo and non- turbo XS. Liked both actually, but shocked by the goodess and tractability of the turbo 2.5 engine. Tons of torque. No turbo wind-up. None. Motor goes about business effortlessly in day to day driving - much less frenetic than most autos, can get the job done at low rpm easily so it ends up being smooth and quiet. This car has two personalities - the very competent and comfortable daily driver being the main and most useful one. Push the accelerator past half tho'and it just flat flies. No noise or fanfare, just takes off.
The Enthusiasts' Family Vehicle
kameojoon, 01/23/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Amazing power. Subaru must under rate the power/torque on these cars. I've seen dyno results of stock XT's that would support this. The responsiveness is nothing short of amazing for a sub $30k vehicle with ample seating for 4 adults. Great handling and all wheel drive versatility. This is a great performer that will give lots of higher end performance cars a run for their money. Exceptional sleeper.
STi in disguse
Foos, 11/19/2007
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Overall, this is the best car I have ever had. You have all the utility of a station wagon/SUV, but the guts of a sports car. With a little bit of tuning, this car competes with a stock STi. Without a doubt this is the wolf in the sheep's clothing.
"Type R" Soccer Mom Wagon!
MrLiou168, 12/25/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Wow! My second Subaru and more impressed than ever. Since this vehicle is built on the Impreza chassis, it offers less room than the Legacy, but performance that is truly amazing. 0-60 times of 5.25 seconds have been documented which puts the HP number close to 250+! No complaints whatsoever except for relatively poor fuel economy. We've put on 3100 miles in one month since purchase and are averaging about 19-21MPG city/highway. Highly recommended!
Very reliable car
subaru enthusiast, 09/23/2009
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great car. Currently at 120,000 miles. The only major problem was leaky head gaskets which I think is an inherent defect in the engine. But easily fixed for less than $1000. Otherwise the best car I have ever owned. On my way to 200,000 miles and beyond.
Don't Buy a Forester
mike, 04/30/2009
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I have had my 04 XS for 5 years now, generally speaking, it's a good car. It is reliable and gets 28-30 mpg highway, front seats are comfortable, back seats are tight, car is sporty and stylish, great traction in bad weather, massive sunroof, BUT...this car has problems. From day 1, car bucks after filling with gas (dealer can't explain), wind noise on highway is horrendous, check engine light goes on and off at will, moving drivers seat causes airbag light to go on, sunroof track broken-they want $1500 bucks to replace, vibration from engine Y-pipe drives us crazy (dealer again can't fix), now the rear end has a very loud humming noise as if its about to go. Car only has 62k miles.
right on the mark
REEBUS, 06/05/2003
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
Subaru really hit a bullseye with this 2003 Forester model.I have a silver 2.5x model that came packaged with the optional security alarm, armrest extender, mudguards,chrome tailpipe and hood deflector. This crossover suv is sized right and looks sharp, with very good room, comfort and performance.With its venerable boxer engine, all wheel drive and ABS standard, along with a host of other amenities, it truly is a great value for the price!
Early Maintenance
Bill, 12/16/2009
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This car is great except for fuel and maintenance costs. Plugs only last 50000 and cost 300-400 to replace due to complexity of the flat design and the turbo plumbing. Most recently I had a raw gas odor requiring replacement of fuel hoses which required removing the intake manifold for repairs. Also found an air turbo intake hose with a hole in it ($100).
Front end impact
Crunch, 11/23/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
At a red light, my foot slipped from the brake to the gas causing a bump with the 1987 Chevy mini-SUV in front of me. No noticed damage to the Chevy, it had some wear and tear on it. The driver was content to leave well enough alone - especiially when he saw the mess I had on my hands. Nearly $6k damage to the Subaru Forrester. It crumpled like an aluminum can under a foot. It could not leave the scene under its own power. The radiator burst. The entire front end, the hood, and much of the front parts of the engine had to be replaced. The vehicle had 400 miles on it.
Not as good as they use to be.
lemonade, 08/04/2005
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this car thinking it would be as reliable and trouble free as my '95 Legacy. I was wrong! Numerous rattles, squeaks and creaks developed in the dash, console, and front passenger door. The auto transmissionwas rough and jerky shifting. The front end would grind and rattle when pulling into a parking space. Two dealers were unable to fix even a single problem. The dealer also always overfilled the engine by half a quart of oil during oil changes. Lousy service, warranty, and car. NEVER WILL BUY ONE AGAIN!
Too many other choices to buy this again
brinx, 12/01/2010
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
14 of 35 people found this review helpful
This car is well thought of for some people. I don't understand why. There are too many good alternatives to this car to buy another one. Normal recommended maintenance is expensive and add in wheel bearings and head gaskets and it's like buying another car. The car is marketed for harsh weather and service, but it doesn't seem to be built for it. Before buying search on head gaskets and wheel bearings and see if you still want one.
Pass on Subaru not worth trouble
JeffD., 10/18/2010
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
5 of 13 people found this review helpful
Purchased the car based on Consumer reviews. Car has lived in the shop: valves, clutch, brakes, radio, etc. The car handles well but no power and no room for kids. Most expensive car I've ever owned based on days in shop and dollars in repairs. I keep cars for 10+ years but looking forward to parking this one under a tree and walking away from it. Subaru dealerships have a lot of swagger about the belief of what they read in consumer reports. Unfortunately this attitude makes it "your fault" that the valves fail after 60 k miles and be prepared for very long waits for parts. Took 3 weeks to get in a new rear windshield wiper arm. None of the needed work has been under warranty.
Fun to drive Forester
Carmen DeFranks, 02/05/2006
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned several Subarus and I have found the Forester to be the most fun car to drive. I was not satisfied with the "pickup" till I bought the 2004 Turbo Forester. I had loved the previous one, but needed more power in getting in and out of rush hour traffic. The turbo had that. But above all - I find the Forester to be extremely fun, something that is difficult to put into words. You have to drive one to know what I mean. Give it a try. I am interested in test driving the Baja next since I have not driven one yet. But will probably stick with the Forester. Oh yeah - you can put ANYTHING in this car - great for hauling!
XT 5 speed forester
Corbin, 12/23/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The new xt forester is a great vehicle. Most people think of subaru being for old people, but they have stepped things up a notch. Now with the turbo models comming, subaru is now more fun to drive. The xt forester is fun, fast, and practical. My winter-time driving in the northwest is now more enjoyable and safe. I would recommend a subaru to everyone.
Unexpected Acceleration
Hung Chen, 08/26/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am not a big fan of SUV's and wasn't interested in the Forester initially. The WRX attracted my visit to the local Subaru dealer and I ended up test driving both the WRX and the Forester XT. I was blown away with Forester's unexpected acceleration. How can a "practical car" out run a "sport car"? Subaru has created an interesting combination of speed and practicality in the Forester XT. The day after I brought the car I took it out to my favorite surfing spot. My 8 ft surf board fitted nicely with the seats folded down. I didn't even have to use the roof rack. This is truly an unique car for people wanting speed and space.
Forester XT- better than WRX wagon
spyderman4774, 01/06/2006
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had my XT automatic (wife doesn't know how to drive a manual) for about a month now and must say this crossover is awesome! Compared to a WRX automatic that I also drove, the XT's extra displacement means more torque and better acceleration off the line. For American driving styles this better enables one to keep up in traffic and equals more smiles/mile. The seats are very comfortable and the interior user-friendly, also headroom will not be a concern for 6'-plus drivers. The handling is one area where the WRX wagon might have the advantage, the XT has a bit too much body roll in corners (even compared to my trade-in vehicle, an '01 Pathfinder). XT= practicality & fun!
Q Ship
REDNEB, 01/28/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
this is without a doubt the most amazing sleeper i have ever owned. handling is above average for a crossover and acceration im pressive particularly over 3500 rpm. the interior seems well concieved and of high quality. shift & clutch are smooth, making double clutching easy. overall a remarkable and practical vehicle.
First Impressions XT Turbo
cdwood, 01/24/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This our second Forester. Our first, a 98, was essentially trouble free for 118K miles. When the turbo came out and I drove it, I wanted it. This is the stealthiest high performance vehicle on the road. The XT version is seriously quick, gobbling up hills and unsuspecting large SUVs or pickups that are inclined to play games.
The Logical Choice
1969Skeptic, 01/28/2009
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car after extensive research in 2003. It was down to the Honda Element vs. the Forester XT and the power won out. This is the first car I've had that I can honestly say I've used most of it's capabilities regularly. I'm no street racer but I do enjoy the acceleration and handling of this little SUV. I usually travel by myself or with my young son and it's just the right size. I've had it off road on the beach and on dirt trails - no complaints and it's easy to maneuver. It towed my 17ft Boston Whaler nicely as well. However, for family road trips we take my wife's Pilot - more room.
Family man's WRX
BBeckRN, 01/12/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Forester XT was really my second choice; I thought I wanted the WRX. Having a family, the Forester made more sense, more room, better seating and the ride wasnt so rough. After driving both, I quickly changed my mind. It has been an absolute joy to drive. The acceleration is better than expected, it handles pretty well and the AWD provides such good stability I haven't lost traction once this winter, despite numerous attempts. A perfect blend of roomy station wagon/family car and fun to drive performance car.
Replaced Audi A6 2.7T Quatro
Joe Greenwood, 01/18/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Was looking for AWD to use in snow country, replacing Audi. The Forrester was head and shoulders above any other AWD/Compact SUV we researched. Exceptional value, scary acceleration, quality interior and most attractive exterior on the market. No spare on the back is a big plus. We had never considered Subaru and kinda put them in the Saab/Volvo category; quirky but functional. We've had Audi/Mustang GT/Taurus SHO/Triumph Spitfire/67 Vette, and the Forrester is more fun than them all. Only one negative - gas tank too small - or maybe I gotta quit playing street-racer. One other drawback, now I'm lusting for a WRX-STi.
2004 XT - 600 miles so far
duckdog_mi, 01/12/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We've put 600 miles on our new XT in just over a week; we can't stop driving it, even in the most recent blizzard. We looked at several makes and models before choosing the XT to replace our current 97 Outback but none could compete with safety, styling, cargo room (dogs/kids), comfort, price and, of course, power. No regrets.
Everything - Including The Dog
Dave_in_CA, 01/09/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My wife and I have been driving the XT for about a month. Just as the first reviewer said, I also bought this car for her and can now hardly stand to drive my car. We have been very pleased by this ultra- sensible sports car. Dog, kids, groceries and a sub 5.7 0-60 time. What more can you ask for? We looked at many wagons (Passat, Outback, Saturn) and chose the Forester for its comfort (her) and performance (me). The sound system is great, fit and finish are excellent (on par with Acura, better than Toyota IMHO) and the car just feels rock solid. No opinion on the reliablity but with regular service it should be fine.
Fun Car with Lots of standard features
bhamdriver, 04/23/2004
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We needed a car with power locks and windows since we have small children. We love the safety rating and side impact airbags We went with the Base X and then added on leather and heated seats aftermarket at the local seat shop. much cheaper this way and better quality materials.The pickup is great for a 4cyl and the car sits up much higher than the old Accord which this replaced. Don't hesitate to buy the base model.
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