Used 2004 Subaru Outback Consumer Reviews
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AWD is necessary
sidekick, 09/20/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 VDC AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
There is always something to improve on the car and I am never satisfied with what carmakers have to offer. But being an experienced driver, the one thing is most important - AWD. So, the choice is instantly limited. And Outback is a really multipurpose AWD - 3.0 engine gives enough acceleration power, but you can still use it on bumpy streets and even off road.
subaru outback
Len Kitchen, 10/09/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The only thing that I don't like is it is hard to get in and out of the drivers seat if you leave the seat in the drive position. Some would find that the power was lacking but I am fine with it. For the size of the car the fuel economy could be better. Everthing else like. It is a solid car that rides well and I have not had any problems at all with it. It goes anywhere and handles well and I would buy another one when this wears out which will be a long way down the road the way it is built.
2004 Subaru Outback for sale near you
Showing 3 of 28 listings
- H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition WagonMSRP: $3,500620 mi away
- Limited WagonMSRP: $10,588718 mi away
- Limited WagonMSRP: $3,995780 mi away
See all 28 listings
great car but problems since day 1
Michael Armani, 12/24/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Really like the car, great all around vehicle. towing jet ski, hauling stuff, going thru snow, it does it all. However, idle problem with manual transmission model. Car out of service 6 days in first 2 weeks of ownership ! one fuel inj replaced. Idle and hesitation continued to be a problem. Very disappointed in both the dealer and Subarus willingness to sort.
Best Car I've Ever Owned!!
Big Dog, 03/04/2005
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 VDC AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I traded in my 97 Dodge Ram Pickup for this car. It was a dealer demo; had 6k on it when I got it, has 17k now. Car is awesome no problems at all. The 3.0 H-6 is a great engine, it has plenty of power to do the job and gets about 23 mpg, much better than the 13 mpg in my truck. The VDC is pretty cool; it gives you great confidence while driving. I turn it off in the snow and have some fun! The interior is great, leather heated seats and climate control plus the Macintosh stereo are all excellent. I love the wood grain trim and the sunroof is nice. It has a very comfortable ride and still performs excellent when pushed hard. As good or better than my mother's BMW 323 and girlfriend's Audi A-4.
Great Sports Wagon
cards, 05/07/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car also offers a great performance even with the base, 2.5 L engine. The performance can be further improved by installing the K & N high- flow air filter instead of the factory one. I found that the K&N filter significantly improves the low-end torque. I also noticed improved a/t performance (smoother operation), but not the fuel efficiency. The latter might be due to impressive 23/30mpg (city/highway) numbers, which I already had registered right after my Outback passed the 3K miles mark.
Won't buy another!
Snubby, 08/03/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 7 people found this review helpful
I bought a new Subaru Outback Model 2004, While a very pretty car to look at, I am disapointed with many features. It is impossible to not have the car jerk when stopping or starting from a dead stop. The seats (and I put in Leather...paid extra) Are the most uncomfortable seats I have ever sat in. They are causing problems with my back and hips....big time....my wife is also experiencing the same. You have to be an acrobat just to step in and out of the car...you just can step in like any other normal car..I have to twist and turn and do the hokey pokey just to enter the darn thing. It's only a couple of months old but I plan to trade it in ASAP.
Stay with Toyota
Andrew, 02/10/2010
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 VDC AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 20 people found this review helpful
I bought this 3 months ago and there has been nothing but problems. It was checked out before I bought it with 82000 miles, and everything was good. But it has been in the shop 5 times now since I've owned it. I'm going to sell it as fast as possible and buy another Toyota Tacoma.. I'm never buying subaru again...
My Favorite So Far
WendyB, 12/03/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After 2 Foresters (that I really liked), I upgraded to the V6 Outback Sedan. It's really fun to drive, is very comfortable, and looks good too. The pick up is a little sluggish, but a world of difference better than the Foresters were.
Sublime Subaru
Subfan, 10/23/2003
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 VDC AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After extensively researching and driving several crossover vehicles, the Outback seemed the logical choice. (Others considered: Nissan Murano, Mitsubishi Endeavor, Toyota Highlander.) I bought the top-of-the-line VDC model, and paid slightly under dealer's invoice (whatever that means, given dealer holdback and other strategems). I needed a modest amount of cargo capacity and good handling of mountain roads; purchasing something larger just didn't seem necessary. I'm very pleased with the result--fine handling, power, and visibility; a smooth, quiet ride; and an interior that matches that of more expensive vehicles.
My New LL Bean
SOA-owner, 10/28/2003
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
In the first 100 miles, all in rain, it is one of the best vehicles I've ever dirven in rain.
Pleased to the Nth
Twigaduma, 11/02/2003
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The LL Bean is on "special" edition that really is special. We are really enjoying this car and were very pleased with the salesman and dealership. This is a beautiful fun car for all the family.
This our Second Outback!
dwv, 11/12/2003
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We have lived in the mountains for a number of years. We have found no other car this reliable in the area of service and winter performance.
Subrau 6 cyl.
Jim B., 11/13/2003
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really like this car, especially the 6 cyl. I have owned a 1997 Outback with the 2.5 engine. The new engine is much more refined and fun to drive. In fact, compared to my previous Acura coupe, it is close in handling and comfort and is just wonderful in the snow and other tough conditions. Yea, I would buy another one. Would like just a little bit more room however.
2004 Subaru Outback 4cyl automatic
jtorp, 11/17/2003
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have this car as well as a 2002 6cyLL Bean edition. The 2004 is more than adequate for highway driving; I commute 100+ Miles per day.The 2004 4cyl is definitely lighter in the handling but the ride, engine and transmission are smoothe. It has adequate pick up to get on the highway. I am happy with the vehicle and Subaru's in general. My mileage is 24-25 per mile consistently.
Suburu take notes
chazz1936, 11/29/2003
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A great alternative to the Suv"s. We have the car for one year, and our experince has been pleasureable without indicent of any kind
My Outback
Paul Marr, 11/30/2003
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Outback is the first we have owned and has proven to be an excellant all round car wagon or SUV .lots of room for moving things yet very comfortable for long road trips.
Best Wagon on the market
Laserhahn, 12/03/2003
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Car is fun to drive. Standard 4- cylinder engine has plenty of power, esp. at highway speeds. As for off- road performance, when was the last time you saw any new 4-wheel drive SUV taken off road, or an SUV in a rally race? If you want to go off-road, buy a Willie's. I don't think you can beat this car for $23,000.
Good vehicle
psteele, 12/04/2003
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
AWD imparts an amazing sense of stability in the rain, and the very taut (but supple)suspension has a Mercedes/Volvo feel to it. Way above expectations for a $22,000 vehicle. Will never go back to a non-AWD vehicle. In 90 days/2,500 miles, zero problems. Flawless fit & finish & build quality, for mechanicals and trim. We don't drive that fast in town & the base 4 cylinder and auto goes plenty fast enough for us. Ours is the base model, but we appreciate Subaru making the AWD, ABS, 4 wheel disk brakes standard across the line. A Passat or V70 with the same equipment would be $10,000 more.
Great Car
Capper, 12/17/2003
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very responsive, fun to drive, capable in the snow.
Don't get fooled by the Maint. Program
jimflys, 01/02/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I Love the Subaru. My '99 has over 145,000 on it no major problems excepted for the valve tap. I recently bought a '04 LL Bean. Very disappointed in their Maintanence program that comes with it. The maint. book calls for oil chances every 3500 miles but the program only covers every 7500. Go figure???
most favorable
john howard, 01/11/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
a truly outstanding automobile & a joy to drive
A great value
peterofski, 01/23/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my second Outback. I owned one in the 90's and didn't like it. The fuel tank was too small and the car seemed excessively noisy. Needless to say, I was impressed by the improvements in the '04 models. I have the L.L.Bean edition. The ride is impressive for a car in this price range. The fit and finish are high quality. It perfoms well in the snow and slush of New England. The sound system is first rate. I enjoy driving this car. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone.
35 th Special Ed
LLBen, 01/21/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
So far so good, we also have a 3 year old Forester that has been A++. I wish the Outback was just a little larger inside.
I'll buy another
Steve, 12/29/2005
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My first Outback will not be my last. We love it. Well built, good performance, great styling, and excellent integrity of body. I do not like the padding in the seats; too thin with not enough support. I am 6' tall and 155 pounds so that is not an issue. Also, we have had the fuel door freeze shut numerous times. That being said, I can find no other things that I do not like. We have the 4 liter H6 and it is very responsive. Thus far, it has been fault free and if it continues, as I think it should, we will have the car we have been looking for. Subaru has done it for us.
won out over audi a4
subby boy, 01/28/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My wife actually chose this car over the A4 avant wagon, with the conditions in Utah, the clearance, reliability, room, and features were a much better fit, of course it cost less as well
Engine Trouble
Clooney, 02/09/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love teh car most of the time, but it keeps shutting off without warning while driving slow or at a stand still. Subaru so far hasn't been able to find the problem or fix it.
unbreakable
Bobbest, 02/13/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just keeps on ticking.
My Subaru, too
FreBra, 02/17/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Needs more head room in front and more leg room in rear. Difficult to enter and exit the front seats due to the windshield post(s) incline. Definitely not a 5 passenger (adult) vehicle.
Good but Not Exciting
christy, 04/10/2006
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is a decent car. It performs very well in snow -- better than our 4x4 rig. It is, well, just boring. But it is good.
A good solid vehicle
Lrac, 03/19/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A generally smooth driving, fuel economic vehicle. Some wind noise over 60MPH. I find the driver's seat to be a bit uncomfortable ( pressure on right buttock), and can't get rid of it with the seat adjustment. The sound system (McIntosh) is great. Fit and finishare OK, but there was a scratch on the windshield from the wiper blade from the start.
CANT BEAT IT !
ROB, 03/28/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
WE TRADED A LINCLON NAVAGATOR FOR OUR NEW OUTBACK WHAT A RIDE ! THIS OUTBACK BELIEVE IT OR NOT GIVES A MUCH MORE COMFORTABLE RIDE THAN THE NAVAGATOR. I REALLY ENJOY FILLING THE GAS TANK WITH A $20 AND NOT A $50. THIS ALL WHEEL DRIVE IS THE GREATEST.
The Best Yet!
AlecB0116, 04/15/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The best car in history for a low price. always reilable. Off road made. Lots of storage for grocerys in the back of the car.
Excellent
emd, 04/20/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have driven this car for one month Very comfortable heated adjustable leather seats some wind noise good visibiity great controls great sound system feels very safe a little slow in accelerating
Check the paint closely
Nevada driver, 05/06/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall the car rides and drives good. Unfortunately the paint is another story. Mine is the silver paint and is mottled and inconsistent in color, especially the bumpers. My insurance companies adjusting agent helped set up a meeting with a Subaru District manager who just looked at the car and said "It matches the other cars on the lot and I do not believe it warrants any further discussion or attention." So if you expect service, or attention for a top of the line model, look at the Volvo or VW. If it is noticeable now, how will this car look in five years.
Rubedu Subaru
dan11911, 05/06/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This auto takes mountain roads like a dream. The response to curves is excellent. I go to mountains to observe I'm an amature astronomer and I go high into the mountains. This car is the best handling car I have ever had. The gas milage is so/so. 20miles in town and 26 on the road.
This car delivers!
taspz, 07/27/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my third Subaru and second Outback. The 3.0 Outback sedan is a great car to drive and enjoy, a class up from the 4 cylinder wagon. It is plush inside with excellent climate control and a fantastic sound system. It combines typical Outback clearance and AWD comfort and safety on wet roads with smooth, quiet performance. It rivals cars that are far more expensive, as it is equally loaded. I love driving it.
Ditch the SUV
cdski, 09/17/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
What a value! I considered the Volvo XC, Audi A4 and VW Passat and all were 10 grand more. Obviously for this price you sacrifice a little quality but not much. After having my kidneys rattled on a daily basis in a Landcruiser I couldn't be more content. The car has some pep and handles reasonably well. It is definitely front dominant.
You gotta luv it!
Coloradolefty, 10/08/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My first Subaru. Value per dollar spent is the best of any car I have owned. It is a marvelously easy car to drive and its inclement weather capabilities are second to none. If you live in snow or wet weather climates, this is the car...very stable and sure footed on the road.
Best alternative to SUV
spokanewa, 12/13/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car already; for one it can go up my 20% grade driveway, something my sebring convertible could not (when covered with snow). I don't like trucks/big suvs's and other ugly gas guzzlers, but wanted the big cargo. I don't think there are many cars with such a good gas mileage yet are as versatile. Storage is huge and roof cargo is easy to use (i.e. no need for a ladder to reach it). I don't find the car performance so bad; it's not nearly as smooth as the v6 i had on the Sebring, but it's more linear, power is the same at any RPM, whereas some V6 i tried like the Mazda 6 wagon only had punch at high RPM. Definitely more fun to drive that similar price small suv like RAV4 or CR-V.
NV driver
NV driver, 04/11/2008
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Outstanding car. The AWD, weight balance, and handling ability in snow make it second to none. I feel safe and confident driving in inclement weather. Car now has 56,000 miles and has been completely trouble free, except for paint during first year. Noticed checking, took to dealer where purchased, was told it was road damage. After nearly a year of hassle, had Subaru DM approve complete repaint of car, no problems since. Check paint carefully! Other disappointment was OnStar changed hardware and so no lonegr works. I plan soon to trade this car for sedan (no longer have need of wagon), will likely be Subaru Legacy; great value for price, and the reliability and performance have me sold.
Great car!
Salli Jo, 09/10/2023
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
If Subaru made a 55th Anniversary Edition of this car, in Purple, I'd be a happy driver. This was my first Subaru and I've loved everything about it!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Good, tough wagon
kialover15, 02/09/2008
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Recently, we bought a Subuaru Outback, mostly because we needed something good in the snow, and boy is it ever. You can purposly try to do doughnuts and foolish car things and your not even able to. Very good in snow. The visibilty is good too, nice big windows in the back.
04 Outback
tcsmutball, 01/11/2004
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Terrific vehicle. Better than the 97 addition. Better ride than Toyota Highlander. more features in Subaru.
best car made
kevin berlied, 07/30/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
once you go subaru you will always go subaru.there is no turning back.awd
Get Back to the Drawing Boards
sfsailman, 11/24/2005
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 5 people found this review helpful
What a dog this car is. Funny looking side panels, what are those about. Ever try to transport a dog in the back? No ventilation = unhappy pet. Cup holders are useless since they are too far back. And the thing auto shifts at the strangest times. Now it sounds like it's blowing its nose around 1500 RPM's. I'm going back to Toyota where I should have stayed. Give me back my Tacoma, please.