Used 2004 Subaru Legacy Consumer Reviews
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Best car for the money
Froggie, 06/15/2010
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
18 of 18 people found this review helpful
Great car. I have over 121,000 miles on it now and still not a rattle or squeak. Runs and looks like new. This is my third Subaru, all very reliable. I have had only 2 out of pocket repairs. The head gaskets were replaced at 80,000 miles and new struts at 116,000 miles. Gas mileage is OK at 22-23 Mpg in town and 27-30 Mpg on the highway.
Safe, Dependable and fun
Froggy, 07/27/2008
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I agree with the others that the auto trans could be better.A 5 or 6 speed would improve economy (I get 25 overall) and acceleration. Reliability wise, I have over 90,000 on it and I have had only one out of pocket repair. It is still tight as a drum. My friends Honda's and Toyotas have been more problematic, in fact they all love my subie. I think many people just don't give Subaru a look before going to Honda or Toyota. This is my third Subaru and I don't see where the others are any more reliable or better made.
2004 Subaru Legacy for sale near you
Showing 3 of 7 listings
- L 35th Anniversary Edition WagonMSRP: $5,999324 mi away
- L 35th Anniversary Edition SedanMSRP: $5,995466 mi away
- L 35th Anniversary Edition WagonMSRP: $1,750566 mi away
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Great driving SUV replacement
ivankong, 11/21/2013
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
I've owned my 04 legacy 35th anniv wagon with 5spd manual since 2007. I bought it with 33K and it now has 58K miles. I had a Jeep Cherokee before this and it was not a good driving vehicle, nor was it good in the snow (surprisingly). I bought the legacy wagon because I wanted awd and some room in the back like an SUV, but I also know that 95% of the driving I do is on the road and I wanted a car that drives like a sports car. This car does that. I have a separate set of wheels with studded snows for the winter and when I have to drive in really bad conditions (I live in CO) I have no worries at all. Awd with manual trans and studded snows all around are great.
Love my Subie!
JC, 04/17/2009
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Bought it used with 25k on it. Currently have 110k. Have not had any problems. Goes thru a lot of tires but I guess that's the AWD. Would like a few more horses under the hood but the 5 spd and the tight handling do make it a fun drive. Great in the snow. I'd buy another one but don't want to give this up!
Definitely won't buy another Subaru...
subaru_andrew, 12/26/2008
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car new in April 2004 and have since put approximately 97500 miles on it. Build quality isn't too good; I have experienced engine knock when cold since 20000 miles. Dealer wouldn't touch the issue, saying it's typical for these engines. Cold (under 20 degree F) starts are painful, sometimes requiring 4 or 5 tries before the engine will stay running. I've had the A/C lose charge twice (dealer and independent shop cannot find leak, so it gets charged once a year) and had the clutch bind and squeak. Dealer replaced the clutch, didn't fix the issue, I found a bad slave cylinder. Rear suspension sags at least 1.5" even with nothing in the trunk. But, I haven't been stranded-yet!
4 Wheel Snow Mobile, and more!
CEC, 12/16/2003
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Impressive ! This is my first Subaru. I cannot fault this vehicle at all, it's wonderful. This wagon has a much better build quality than my Toyota Tundra. ( my trade in ) There is even a bit of the WRX growl in the motor, - Nice. My only regret is not getting one years ago !
Manual Sedan
mjc440, 02/03/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This Legacy has a great ride, almost perfect steering, and is practically unstoppable in the snow. The negatives are inferior interior materials (compared to Honda and Toyata) and an engine with not a lot of power (although it performs well for a four cylinder). My biggest complaint is that the 5 speed manual is geared too low for normal highway driving. The engine screams at 3,000 RPMS at 70 MPH (and everyone blows past you). It really needs another gear. Also the manual transmission is sometimes hard to put into first gear. Shifting feels like you're shifting through gravel. Cloth seats are also uncomfortable.
04 legacy anniversary edition.
L.Nork, 05/19/2007
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Some fit and finish problems notably the weather stripping coming loose. Also had to replace sunroof because of wind noise, all done by dealer with no hassle. Otherwise very dependable. Only expense has been gas, tires and brakes. No repairs.
Perfect all around car
Whoiam04, 08/19/2003
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car is verry well-built, with a symetrical all wheel drive layout that fully optimizes the advantage of all wheel drive...this is my second legacy, the first had over 280,000 when i sold it
I hope this one lasts like the First
W Heller, 09/19/2003
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Overall this car is a blast to drive, and stays flat in the curves. My only complaint is the little lack of power produced by the engine. Other than that it has a very strong build.
Subaru Me - Once More
Jon, 12/05/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I drive 80 mi a day to the City (elev. 4500 ft) from a a peaceful mountain valley (elev. 6500 ft). Have been doing so for 11 years in my '93 Legacy L AWD Sedan. It now has 290,000 miles and still going strong! I have since retired it to the teenager daughter. Enter my new Subaru. Looking forward to another 10+ years of confident all- weather driving without guzzling gas. Whole family loves Subaru's. Dad, Mom and both brothers own one. And now I own two!
Excellent Auto
Lola, 12/16/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Reminds me of my last (1969) Subaru which lasted for 170,000 miles but is more comfortable.
All around great car
35th Legacy Auto, 04/24/2007
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is an all around wonderful vehicle. Everyday performance is good but in rain or snow, good quickly changes to great. Nothing I've ever driven has compared to this car. I can't see any reason why I wouldn't buy Subaru in the future.
Not happy
dswiss, 09/09/2007
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Technically not a lemon, but awfully close to one! In 80,000 miles I've had a transmission replaced, three catalytic converters, three oxygen sensors, numerous cruise control problems, burning oil smell, creaking windows, etc. Finally got rid of it and found out that the trade-in value is next to nothing. But at least I am happy now!
Problems after 55,000 miles
PeggyR, 11/28/2008
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I also had problems after 50,000 miles and just want to get rid of it. I also owned a 1995 Subaru before and it never gave me any troubles. My head gasket is cracked, have had transmission problems almost immediately and their is always something wrong with this car. It is sad because I used to trust Subaru as a quality car. It costs almost as much as a BMW to repair, so why not quality.
"Bummer" Should have been recalled!
Woody, 09/12/2010
2004 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
During my 160,000 miles I have had to replace the catalytic converters 3 times and now that inspection is due wouldnt you know it engine light is on and needs another catalytic converter. Both front windows after 1 year leak air flow sounds like a whistling jet is landing no satisfaction from the dealer or Subaru.
MAD-MAN'S FACTS
chad medeiros, 01/23/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
A bit SLOW & Sluggest at 1st. but opened up FINALLY after 14000. So drive it like you stole it so it can open up for you!!!!!
Driver's seat is uncomfortable
jannys, 06/07/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
We have the 35th Anniv Edition-L model. The dual sunroofs are great. I love the car..so far, so good for me. The problem is that my husband finds the front driver's seat very uncomfortable during a long ride. We've tried different cushions, now we're trying it without the cushions. There should be lumbar support. He has wide shoulders, and the bolstered seat is snug on him.He's only 5'8" and the seat bothers his legs also. After driving larger cars (like Ford Taurus) the driving area does seem compact. People advise him that over time he'll get used to it..we'll see. So in the meantime, I can do the driving and enjoy it!
'04 falling apart
jimflys, 09/21/2006
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I've had nothing but trouble with my '04 Outback once it hit 50,000 miles. I will never buy one again and I've owned two others.
Nice machine...on snow
Stan, 03/26/2007
2004 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Very well build car. Exceptional on snowy/slushy roads. Great road drivability. Bought just several months ago but love it so far. Not too keen with the outdated design though.
Subaru Legacy GT Top of the Line??
silverlady, 11/08/2003
2004 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just bought a Subaru Legacy GT Sedan, my first new car! Overall it seems to be an excellent car. One problem: when I take it through a high powered, touchless car wash, the drivers side and passenger side windows leak! The dealer said there was nothing they could do; they took me through the car wash with another new Legacy and it also leaked. They said don't use touchless car washes. It is a design flaw I must learn to live with. Bummer, $27,000 for a car and I can't take it through the car wash! Subaru may be built to handle the winter roads, but they are not built to handle a touchless car wash!
Great Car
Ryan Reynolds, 11/13/2003
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
How to put it in words? I needed to find a car for my wife that would be great in the Snow, sporty, and comfortable, and around $20,000. And I found it, This car is so much fun to drive. I looked around for about 8 months before buying, I looked at Dodge, Ford, and Honda, But no one made an All-Wheel Drive that compared. I purchased the 35th anniversary edition which came with power windows and lokcks, Sun roof, A/C, AWD, CD player. Everything I wanted and more. Any douts, Look at Consumer Reports reviews A+.
A car to love!
Edwardo, 08/29/2007
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
After owning a 98 Legacy, my wife and I wouldn't settle for anything other than another Subaru wagon. We're roadtrippers and campers and when we're not mapping new territories, we love the sense of safety and very smooth ride of our 35th Anniversary Legacy (2004), with the double sunroof and fully reclinable seats being just as sweet in the city as it is useful in the sticks.
19 years in review 2004 Subaru Legacy wagon
Ed in NC, 02/13/2023
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We've has this Subaru for 6 years and now has 175k miles on it. We learned what everyone who knows about Subarus of this generation knows, the head gasket goes between 125k-175k miles and fixing it likely costs the value of the car in labor costs. We took option 2 which was a replacement JDM (Japan Direct) engine with 40k miles. Cost was $3k to have the motor swapped in at a local shop. Car runs like NEW again and best part - its the Japan version which is a 2.0 (vs. 2.5 here in the states) so looks identical visually (so oil changes/parts identical) but displacement/power a little less. But it will last forever.
Could use more power
BrianMac, 09/17/2003
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased this vechile after experience with the Outback. Overall happy with car but could use more power. Some quality and fit issues.
no regrets
dswiss, 09/22/2003
2004 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for one week and already put on 900 miles. I love this car. It's very quiet and solid, and feels like the Mercedes I used to have. I have the 4 cyl stick shift and find it fun to drive. Enough power and a silhy smooth transmission.
Previous Owner Returns to Subaru
Barry Segars, 10/23/2003
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My first turn in the test drive, the car read my mind. I became amazed to be turning just by thinking it. The car seems that responsive! The brakes, all 4 wheels, stop fast & smooth. Listen during the test drive. You can converseas clearly as if you were communicating face to face {very quiet ride!}. The acceleration is good if you're trying to keep out of trouble but this isn't your car if you're appreciate a zippy response. I get 23 mpg in the city and 28 on the Interstate. The seatbelt fits like a dream. The stereo claims to be 40 watts but it performs like 20. The easy access storage areas are still stupid as they were in 1995.
Good!
regurgitate1, 12/03/2003
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
VERY NICE, LOOKS GOOD INSIDE AND OUT
From Volvo to Subaru
T. Devine, 01/24/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded my (third) Volvo for the Subaru, chiefly because of the AWD. However, I love the car. It is agile, quick, easy to drive,and much more than my Volvos, it is fun to drive. And, of course, it cost about 40% less to buy. Now I can't think of why I paid so much money for cars that really didn't please me. (Snobbery, probably.)
Subaru Legacy Limited Edition
Janneth Bethea, 03/23/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I truly enjoy driving my Subaru Legacy Limited Edition. During the winter months, I never worried about getting stranded or having car trouble. This car is extremely reliable and very affordable. It's in a class by itself. Many of my friends are not familiar with the Subaru. We they see me they think its a Volvo, Saab or one of the expensive sedans. Yes, I love the comfort and the sleek look of my car. I highly recommended this well kept secreat.
MY 2003 SUBARU LEGACY SE
Tigressrich, 04/10/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have enjoyed the ride from the initial test drive.This car is excellent in the snow and you can actually feel the car adjusting to the snowy roads.I recommend this car to anyone that is looking for a sturdy car and one that is not stolen often,as is the Honda Civic and the Nissan Maxima.
Legacy GT
ERMJRM, 04/10/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love the way my Legacy drives. When it goes around corners and there is not much body roll, this makes for a smooth ride. We live in the country, so we drive on all types of roads all year around. The AWD handles great from the snow in the winter to the dirt roads in the summer.
Fun, reliable, how good?
NoahB123, 04/11/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm 18, and the legacy is the first car I've ever owned, but most definitely not the first that I've driven. For the price, the legacy is definitely one of the best automobiles out there. Even with just standard features, it's a nice, comfortable car. I got the leather, the XSi package(looks), and the premium sound system...all worth it. The sound system is unreal, the leather is sleek and comfortable, and the XSi package gives it an edge to the standard back of a subaru. Driving the car is fun, but acceleration is just a little bit slow, although I am used to driving a 2000 maxima(about 200hp).
toms car
tom morris, 04/11/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
car is very reliable, but it doesn't have very much pick up. great family car comes with a lot of options stock. great wood grain interior
Subaru once, Subaru always.......
artquiltsbymeiny, 06/17/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We used to own a 1992 Subary Loyale wagon which was recently totalled in a crash. The driver and passengers survived thanks to the sturdy Subaru body. The car is very quiet, with a very smooth ride, excellent aircondition and I love the showing of the direction the car is heading. The main reason for buying another Subaru though is our great experience with the service personal at the dealership; no haggling over repairs, mostly scheduled service appointments.
legacy 35th manual wagon
frog, 09/28/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy L 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
counter the counterspin- The power on this car, especially low down and especially in the 5-speed, is terrific. I am more than happy with the engines response, from in town to highway trips, and I like to keep the SPORT in driving. The handleing on these cars is telepathic. They grip from all four corners, stay flat and remain predictable. The braking gets some complaints, but I hve seen no issues in the first 6K. Interior is handsome, seats fit well after break- in, I recommend lifting them slightly up off their lower setting, and tilting the seat relatively far back to give it a more roomy feel.
Best ride & handling combo
travis j, 10/22/2004
2004 Subaru Legacy 2.5 GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I leased a 2000 Legacy GT ( 5 speed ) for four years. All wheel drive with the rear differential proved quite fun when powering out of corners. But that brings up the week point of this car. Not enough power to go with the great suppension tuning and bank vault structual rigidity. Best combination of ride and handling of any car I've driven. Quiet interior and very comfortable seats.