AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2004 Subaru Legacy
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Below average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $5,000–$8,000
The 2004 Subaru Legacy has a high number of recalls, notably for airbag inflators, highlighting significant reliability concerns. Owner complaints focus largely on airbags, speed control, and engine issues, indicating frequent problems that could increase repair costs.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 50,000–100,000 miles | $300–$1,000 | very common |
| Cruise control cable | 60,000–120,000 miles | $100–$300 | common |
| Fuel pump | 70,000–130,000 miles | $400–$800 | occasional |
| Engine cooling | 80,000–150,000 miles | $500–$1,500 | occasional |
| Throttle cable | 50,000–90,000 miles | $150–$450 | rare |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil change every 5,000 miles
- Timing belt replacement at 105,000 miles
- Brake fluid replacement every 30,000 miles
- Coolant flush every 60,000 miles
- Transmission service every 30,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Inconsistent acceleration
- Airbag warning light
- Fuel smell
- Overheating
- Throttle sticking
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/22/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.