Used 2004 Subaru Outback Consumer Reviews
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6 Years Old and 125k miles
CT Dave, 05/04/2010
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
51 of 53 people found this review helpful
This car has been a workhorse, grocery getter, commuter car, and family truckster for us. It still runs great and we hope to get 200k out of it. The exterior has held up well. The car has been dependable.
Mountain lion/Battle tank
Ashwin, 03/20/2009
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
29 of 30 people found this review helpful
This is the best AWD money can buy, I am so used to it now whenever I drive any other car it is always a comparison to an outback and everything else is disappointing, I specially like the solidly build chassis and suspension, wish there was little less body roll, I drove this car uphill in 1.5 feet of snow and it was like driving a battle tank, I love the sure footed handling, I tried a 4 wheel drive Passat and Volvo, BMW, Jeep, etc and nothing performs like it, I drove it in the mountains in Catskill all winter, I found many jeep 4x4 stuck in the same tracks as mine, love the robust engine. Cross country trip was so comfortable, no problems so far, I am at 100000 miles, VDC should be standard.
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Won over!
Brad, 08/15/2015
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 VDC AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
36 of 39 people found this review helpful
I have owned and driven many different makes of cars and trucks and non of them new, and this one has won me over to Subaru. It has its quirks that many people have listed as major problems, but if you are buying a used car or any car there are the ups and downs. With this one, there are a few, in the gearing there is a lurching at a low speed if you don't feather the clutch right, I am a larger fellow and it can be difficult to get in and out of and in winter with a coat it is annoying, there is a flaw in the design of the fender panels that leads to a rotting problem in the steel, and for the life of me I don't know why they don't give the wheels more clearance it packs snow like crazy! However with all of that I must say the thing performs! I have climbed hills where other AWD and 4x4 vehicles ended up in the ditch, any problem I have had with it is nothing I haven't seen worse in other used vehicles and most of the time come's down to general maintenance, any company produces its lemons, and I must say I haven't had cause to deal with a Subaru customer service, never owning a car new enough to be under any warranty, but I trust this vehicle to get me to where I need to go no matter the obstruction.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
4 vs 6
weldonm, 09/08/2003
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
21 of 23 people found this review helpful
If you think the 2.5 is what you want, don't drive the H6-3.0. We drove both, no doubt about it, the H6-3.0 is heads and shoulders above the 2.5. The Special edition is very well equipped and has plenty of spunk. The vehicle is solid and handles as well as any I've tried. We are very pleased with the quality and we look forward to snowy weather.
My baby!
Jimmy, 12/05/2015
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 VDC AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car 4 or 5 years ago from a local dealer. Although it has had its problems, which are expensive to repair (my local Meineke does not like me to bring it to them because "everything is just a little bit different than a regular car) ... so far they have not refused to service it. Rust is a definite problem and I've had the rust repaired several times. Despite my review I'd buy another one in a minute!
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- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Buy an '04, not newer body style
Happy, 10/04/2007
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
16 of 18 people found this review helpful
If you're shopping for a used Subaru, buy an '04. Very dependable car, no trouble. Mine has more than 100K miles and getting 27 mpg. According to a local Subaru mechanic, '04 is the best year for Subarus. Run from the '05s. See my review for our '05 Outback XT under title "Money Pit". It's hard to believe the cars are from the same manufacturer. The '04 has been a perfect car and the '05 was a horribly expensive nightmare. We're keeping the '04 and plan to put another 100K miles on it.
I love my Subaru
SMILLW, 01/30/2007
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 VDC AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
This can is great for all situations. I drive in the city, and have taken it on the highway too. Its ride is smooth and the handling is great. The best test of this car is winter weather and it handles like a dream. That AWD really works.
Good for snow, but thirsty and noisy
Raj, 04/27/2010
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
This is a fairly spacious little wagon that works well for our family of four and dog. The car shines in the snow, which we've had plenty of the last two winters. The reliability has not been so impressive - frozen calipers, broken primary pulley - and the clutch is pitifully heavy. The engine is torquey but thirsty - lots of sub-20 mpg tanks around town this winter. During the summer, I dream of selling the thing, but it's effectiveness in the snow keeps it in the family (for now).
4th Subaru
Booru, 03/10/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I have owned 4 Subarus starting with a '84 GL Wagon. I have loved every. I looked at other SUV's and at the Outback VDC. Couldn't justify (to myself) the extra cost of the VDC vs. benefits. Liked the LL Bean from the first moment I saw it and sat in it. Agile in city, country, beach, and mountain driving. The H6 has impressive power pared with the smooth transmission makes for a terrific combination.
Great Car
John, 07/12/2007
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
This is a great car. We wanted a car that was a little different from what most people are driving and felt we succeeded. We've had it dealer maintained and haven't had to do anything other than routine maintenance. We just finished a cross country trip in it and it was comfortable and smooth. Averaged 28-29 mpg on the trip.
Noisy low mileage sub
leon, 04/16/2010
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
This sub is fun to drive and responsive, but it gives very low mileage as compared to our sienna awd which gives 23+ mi/hwy; the side mirror makes swooshing sound and suspension --the thug sound. I only have 40,000 miles to date.
Second of Many Subarus!
Teenbiker, 02/07/2010
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is an absolutely amazing car. Bought it this November and it far surpasses the 97 Outback Limited that it replaced. The 97 was a 2.5H4, so the upgrade to the H6 LLBean is unreal. Such a smooth engine, lots of power, and the transmission is light years better. The interior is beautiful: wood, leather, 2 sunroofs! The gas mileage hasn't been too bad either. Since the car has only been with us in winter cold temperatures and with winter-blend gas, I'd say 19mpg is pretty good. The '97 got 17mpg in cold temperatures, so I'm very pleased. We put in regular gas with no difference in the drivability of the car. This car is AMAZING in snow too! This is no doubt my second of many Subarus!
great car
vlb, 11/20/2003
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is a fun and sporty vehicle. In southeast Texas it is sort of rare, so I get a lot of looks and questions. I agree that the front seats need more comfort and the tilt wheel could use some more tilt. Overall, I enjoy the reliability of Subaru and plan to keep it for years....unless the seats get considerably more comfortable...then I'll get a new one..Are you listening, Subaru?
Solid Subaru
Vito, 03/18/2005
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
10 of 13 people found this review helpful
Just bought this 04' Outback Limited as a leftover in 3/05. Got a super deal on it - apparently no one drives 5-speeds anymore. Subaru's are a super reliable and practical. I needed a car that was excellent in the snow but yet great on gas and roomy. I originally had a 2002 Nissan Sentra which was a great car but it was so light that it was all over the place in inclimate weather. I didn't feel like buying a 2nd car, like a little Nissan pickup. I've been a loyal Nissan customer since 1995, but the Subaru's make more sense to me. If you are considering one car that can really do it all check out any of the Subaru wagons, just not the Outbacks. The Standard Legacy wagons are probobly the best value.
?
karenmoorebrunelle, 01/31/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
My third Subaru. First a legacy wagon then two outbacks. All great cars. Reliable, functional and still f
I LOVE IT!
KATHY JUDGE, 12/27/2003
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I FEEL SAVE IN MY SUBARU. IT'S THE ONLY CAR I'LL EVER OWN. I HAD A 1999 AND JUST TRADED IT FOR A 2004. THE MILAGE SEEMS TO BE ALITTLE BETTER.
Feel Secure
Merle, 10/11/2006
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Just like our 1997 Outback, it's reliable, good of fuel, and we feel secure.
Little old lady's car
Scott, 12/05/2018
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My mother decided to purchase a new 2018 Crosstrek and the trade in was her 2004 Outback Sedan. After seeing what the dealer was going to give her she decided to gift it to me for my daughter. I can only say that my daughter loves this car. For a 2004 with only 60000 on it with one rust spot this car will last for a long time. She has had no major issues and it drives like a tank in the snow. If someone looking for a great everyday commuter this is the car for you. The leather is very supple and the controls are very easy to read and use. It has developed an odd clicking noise but for a car this old it starts and runs like brand new. I highly recommend this car.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great car
Bill, 05/16/2008
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I've had my Outback a little over a year. I run my cars to death and they never set for long periods of time. I do newspaper delivery in this car. So you know the car has to be good. It gets driven anywhere from 60 miles to 150 miles everyday. The only problems I've had with it is the water pump went out, nothing new had a '97 legacy gt with the same problem. Recently the CV boot tore in half and threw grease all over the catalytic converter. Not a big deal. The water pump was bad for almost two weeks before I took it into the shop. Car has never really left me down. Now I have had some performance parts put on it to compensate. Overall a great car would buy again.
H6 verses the 4 cyl
wankie, 01/25/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Had a 2001 Outback 4 cyl, which was a good car. Having traded to the H-6 in 03,it feels like a different car, suttle differences emerge over time. Corners much better, and rolling acceleration, for passing are night and day better. Here in Boise, I can now keep ahead of the mad Truck Drivers.Or at least,Get away from them.
Unhappy owner
CEP, 03/11/2010
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 VDC AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
10 of 14 people found this review helpful
Based on my experience with this vehicle, I will never again purchase or recommend a Subaru vehicle. At 50,000 miles, so many items began to fail. Six air conditioning repairs, both CV boots burned up because of a design problem, then at 78,000 miles, all the struts needed to be replaced. I am still paying on this vehicle and spend on average another $4000/year to maintain it in good working order. Now the finish on the fiberglass bumper is peeling, the engine continually has a burning odor that can't be identified, and the AC still freezes after a 200 mile trip in the heat. The car is a disaster.
A great suprise
bach, 09/27/2003
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
My last two cars have been Saabs, I like a car that handles and is fun to drive. The Subaru Outback is the best car I have driven and owned. The six cylinder is as almost as powerful as my 3.0 Turbo-charged Saab was. But the velvet smooth power is certainly in contrast to what the Saab felt like. The hydrauling motor-mounts must be the difference. I've driven this car only about 1400 miles now but it is a real pleasure. The only thing is the comfort of the seats. It does have plenty of lumbar support for the lower back, but we have a jeep and a lexus as well, and the seats are just more comfortable in the other cars.
snow mobile
slackersinc, 05/07/2004
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
this car tackles and handles the mountain passes like no other. when the big 4x4's are in the ditch, u just cruise on by. went hunting in eastern wa. last winter. had to travel through 1 1/2' of snow with 3' drifts 5 mls. on a farm rd. no problem...i like this car!
Subarules
Long Hot Summer Days, 03/14/2006
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
This is my 3rd Outback. They are the most reliable cars. They are very versatile; you can haul the wife and 3 kids or drop the back seat and move desks, filing cabinets, etc. They are very desirable. Buy in the spring and sell at the first snow fall.
Reliable all-weather wagon
cmelville, 10/10/2006
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
6 of 9 people found this review helpful
Our 1st Subaru, definitely not our last. Great build quality, no squeaks, rattles, or other unanticipated problems after 43,000 miles. We're so satisfied that we are selling this one to our son and buying a 2007 model.
Great Vehicle
F.Stipko, 01/03/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I'm now on my 2nd Outback and cannot express satisfaction enough. Very capable in heavy snow and wet rods. Naturally no vehicle is trustworthy on ice, but I'll take the Outback over some of my past four wheel drives I've had regarding control of the unit. No need to worry about engaging in and out of four wheel drive as the All Wheel Drive is always there when you need it.
Good car
Jerry Savaloja, 09/16/2005
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Very good ride at expressway speeds. Good handling. Solidly built vehicle. Have not had it back to the dealer except for routine maintenance.
Can't beat it
miken2uzu, 07/08/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Chose the L.L. Bean Outback over a Highlander, Pilot, Matrix, XC70, and A4 wagon. You just can't get another car with full time AWD, 8 inches of ground clearance, leather interior, dual moonroofs, 6 CD changer, ABS, side airbags and a 212 HP engine for less money (we paid just over $28k). We've had it for about a year, and the Outback's winter performance is better than any SUV I've ever driven (including Explorer, Yukon, Jimmy and Envoy)- it is so much more confident on icy corners. I'm a volunteer firefighter who MUST be able to get on the road no matter what the conditions, and this car got me to the station through 10 inches of snow on unplowed roads more than once.
The balance I need for my family
jszilvagyi, 04/13/2010
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car has offered the perfect balance of performance, comfort, fuel economy and reliability for my family. I have experienced cars that are better in one or two categories but this has been perfect for loading up my family for week long road trips as well as my daily commute.
Right for me!
RCHANTLER`, 02/11/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
A great performer particularly if you live in snow country. It has many of the most wanted features of more expensive cars including seat warmers, CD player, electric seats and car locks. For a 4 cylinders it has great zip and pickup. On the downside is the awkward feature of adjusting the tilt steering column. Also the console between the two front seats is very awkward to use while driving. Too far back. The notched gearshift is not the best. It's all I need in an automobile.
SUV - Significantly Underpowered Vehicle
Paul, 09/03/2008
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
An OK car, but nothing to get excited about. I don't notice any particular benefit to the AWD, but northern NJ has pretty tame weather. The 4 cylinder is kind of wimpy in this fairly heavy car. Disappointed by cheap plastic in the interior. First day pulled the coin tray clear off the dash. Also, there are these silly little doors in the back that don't really close over storage areas. Most annoying - after 3 years, developed a whining sound at highway speed - exactly like our 2002 Impreza. Dealer wants $492 to replace some window gizmos. I think not. Our '97 Dodge Caravan doesn't sound like this. Probably last Subaru I'll buy.
MY 2003 OUTBACK
RICHVANWAG, 12/27/2003
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 35th Anniversary Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
THIS IS OUR SECOND OUTBACK--WE PUT 135000 ON A 1999. THIS CAR IS THE H6, WHICH IS A BIG IMPROVEMENT IN POWER. WE FOUND THE OLD ONE AND THIS NEW ONE TO BE BULLETPROOF. THE NEW ONE HAS HAD NO PROBLEMS WHATSOEVER. WE HAVE DRIVEN IT 14,000 MILES IN LESS THAN SIX MONTHS, AND NOT A SINGLE COMPLAINT. IT GETS REASONABLY GOOD GAS MILEAGE (ABOUT 25 IF YOU HOLD IT TO 75MPH ON THE FREEWAY) DROPPING TO 23-24 IF YOU DRIVE IT 80-85, WHICH IT DOES COMFORTABLY. I DISLIKE THE NOISE LEVEL IN THE CABIN AT HIGHER SPEEDS. IT IS AN EXCELLENT SNOW CAR. THE HIGH CLEARANCE IS A REAL PLUS IN DEEP SNOW.
Rock solid but a little boring
3rdSubaru, 07/13/2008
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 VDC AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is the third Subaru I've owned. In 57,000 mi, I've yet to have a single problem. I have separate wheels for snow tires, and I put some sticky summer tires on the stock rims for summer driving. With snow tires, this car is unstoppable in the snow! I also have a full size 4x4 pickup truck, and this car easily out- performs it even in deep snow. You'd have to be a real idiot to get this car stuck. On dry (or wet) pavement, it handles nicely, but I wish they'd offer a more powerful engine. The 6-cylinder is OK, and I get a consistent 27mpg -- no complaints since I drive it pretty hard. My next car will probably be a BMW 335xi or an Audi S5, but the Subaru has served me well.
Subaru loyality shot
spirit1, 10/23/2008
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I had to have the stereo replaced (after fighting with the dealership over it because they initially refused to repair it) while it was under warranty because of a faulty CD player. Soon after the repair, the speakers quit working. Some of them will work some of the time, but never all of them together and most often, none of them. Dealership won't back their work. With 50,000 miles on the car I had a dash light burn out. Soon after several instrument panel lights have burned out - windshield heater control, passenger side seat warmer button and the air circulating button. The cruise control lever sticks and often won't disengage. CV boot shaft just replaced. 62,000 miles. Now what?
Excellent performance and comfort
Jazzcat423, 07/21/2006
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru. I wish I had gotten it years ago.
Looking for a commuter?
Levi, 05/18/2016
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
21 of 40 people found this review helpful
If you are looking for a commuter car to get you absolutely anywhere, this is the car for you! With that being said let me tell what you don't get with the commute. The sound system is terrible, as is most subaru sound systems. When I got the car, the front drivers side speaker was already out. Don't forget, there are only 4 speakers in this car. The ride quality, is terrible. It is a heavy wagon of a car weighing in at 2tons with two people in the car. a naturally aspirated 2.5l 4cylinder in this bad boy will not accelerate worth a damn. You will find at about about 80k miles is when you start noticing some major problems. Head Gasket will blow at no later than 125k miles. It's the BIGGEST problem with these engines. Head Gasket always blows sooner rather than later, all because Subaru put a cheap, flimsy head gasket in. the automatic is the worst transmission I have ever had to drive, EVER. it will take about 3 seconds from a dead stop with your foot on the throttle before you actually start to move. If you have this car, expect 1st gear to go out on you as soon as possible. Why? Subaru put in a terrible transmission that does not do the job. I would have preferred a 5 speed manual rather than the 4 speed automatic. Let's talk a little bit about the suspension and ride comfort. with every turn or corner you take you will think you are about to roll over. The body roll is incredible in this vehicle. If you have a car full of people you probably will never notice it with the weight evenly distributed. If you are a single guy like me you will not appreciate the ride whatsoever. you will have every bump feel like you are a rag doll in an open container being shooken around. The road noise is bad, let's just be honest. You hear a lot of everything with the windows rolled up and you cant hear your music with the windows rolled down. Heated seats are nice but don't stay on after they have been on for about 20 min. Odd. Also, there is the legendary subaru fluid smell that you will always have fresh in your nostrils when driving this car. It's an unknown scent that every legacy has. Not oil, not AC, not clutch fluid, just a scent of a subaru. Lastly, the lighting. The oversized headlamps are ridiculous. The fog lights give off more light than the actual headlight itself, or the brights for that matter!! The daytime running lights on these cars are notorious for sucking gas and power away from the engine. The DRL's are a waste and I found myself unplugging them altogether because they really didn't do anything but take power away from the car. The AWD part is wonderful, Subaru is a rally car, so they know how to drive on all terrain. That's pretty much it though about this car. Gas mileage was pretty consistent seeing as how you couldn't move but one speed, slowly. Save yourself some time in searching for the right car, go with a Toyota. Owned a 99 toyota 4runner since 99, brand new. 325k all original miles on engine and transmission. Still running strong!! I'm only at 67k miles on the subaru and had to replace battery, and alternator already, probably going ot have to do spark plugs soon and transmission flush since transmission is acting up already. 4runner, didn't replace those until 125k miles. See the difference? Thanks for reading this review, I hope it was beneficial to all.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
wind noise &poor defrosting
naum, 12/27/2003
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great auto. Interior wind noise is driving me crazy. Poor defrosting
A Car to Care for You
SubaruSue, 04/22/2004
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
My 2003 Outback Limited is the fourth Subaru I've owned. Built to last, they handle superbly in any weather. The ride is smooth and comfortable, overall fit/finish superior. Subaru's dealerships have improved in customer service significantly in the last five years; I'm now more satifisfied with my Subaru dealer than with the local BMW dealer I've dealt with.
Highly recommended
JohnM, 03/03/2004
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I am extremely pleased with my Outback. Even with 4 cylinders, it gets me up some pretty steep roads. Handling the mountain highways is a delight.. Ride is smooth yet firm.
No Reason To Buy High-End
Jim, 04/12/2006
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 VDC AWD 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
The functionality of the Outback is great -- hauling bikes; moving friends; loading up my band gear. It does this well while remaining a practical urban car (read: easy to park). However, the VDC has failed 5 times -- each time while in the Sierras during a snow fall! Isn't that when I would most need it? Also, McIntosh has failed twice (radio reception is horrible). The two reasons for why I bought the upgraded Outback are both failing ... why did I spend that money?
First and last Subaru for me
MarcusCaudill, 01/30/2010
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought this car because of the reputation for reliability. Wrong. Alternator failed at 60k miles. Multiple battery replacements. Brakes way too soon. Engine bearing failure at 90k miles. This car was driven on the highway, and was maintained better than required by Subaru. Be wise and drive something else.
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.
so far so good..better than i expected
TSC333, 01/12/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this car becuase a move to the north, needed all-wheel drive, decided on this because it seemed a good value, excellent AWD performance and edmunds rated it as reliable. It has been very good for intial quality (3000 miles). It is as quite as our BMW 528 on the highway. Seems a little cramped in the backseat with adults, do not get the performance out of the 6 cylinder as expected. Overall very pleased.
Brakes
Vermont owner, 03/21/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I do like my 2002 Outback Wagon. BUT there seems to be problems with the brakes on the Outbacks. I drive a 5- speed standard, mostly interstate driving of 100 miles at a time. I had new brakes at 14,000 miles and another set of brakes at 25,000 miles. There also seems to be problems with needing to replace the head gasket at anywhere between 40,000 and 60,000 miles. This is unheard of in vehicles as this problem doesn't unually occur until 100,000 miles. I'd be interested to hear if other folks are seeing and having these problems.
Short time in new Legacy Outback ltd
Arnold Cohen, 01/20/2004
2004 Subaru Outback Limited AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have switched from a Mercedes Benz ML320 to this Subaru Legacy Outback Limited. Other than being smaller, the ride is better, handling a little more precise, quieter, and somewhat better economy. I've only got 1400 miles on it to date but I drive 20,000 per year and I think this auto will be a winner.
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.
Great Car!
Alexandra Gomez, 05/13/2004
2004 Subaru Outback AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I live in Southern Manitoba, where the winters are very cold. I have used my car for every day driving and never felt afraid of the weather or road conditions. I also like the fact that is a wagon, but it doesn't look like an 'old mama's' wagon at all. I recommend this car to my friends all the time. When the time comes to get a new vehicle, I'm sure it will be a Subaru.
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.
Five in a row!
Grandmom, 04/23/2004
2004 Subaru Outback H6-3.0 L.L. Bean Edition AWD 4dr Wagon (3.0L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my 5th Subaru. I am completely sold on the car. I have never had any major problems with any of the Subarus I have owned. This is absolutely the best car for the money on the market today. It can be used in the city, on the road or on the farm...all of which I do. It's performance and smoothness of it's ride is far superior to my husband's new vehicle. My next car will be a Subaru also.