2004 Subaru Outback engine and engine cooling problems
13 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine and engine cooling on the 2004 Subaru Outback — 14% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Tl* the contact owns a 2004 subaru outback. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would overheat and stall. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic on three different occasions. The technician replaced the thermostat, water pump and coolant however, the…”
filed Oct 1, 2014
“Tl* the contact owns a 2004 subaru outback. The contact stated that the vehicle would exhibit an abnormal tapping noise when first started. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who replaced the pistons. The noise recurred and the vehicle was taken to another dealer who advised that they would need…”
filed Sep 16, 2011
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Engine and Engine Cooling problems in other Outback years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Outback | 1 | 1% |
| 2022 Outback | 1 | 0% |
| 2021 Outback | 2 | 1% |
| 2020 Outback | 3 | 0% |
| 2019 Outback | 1 | 0% |
| 2016 Outback | 3 | 0% |
| 2015 Outback | 3 | 1% |
| 2014 Outback | 1 | 0% |
| 2013 Outback | 1 | 0% |
| 2012 Outback | 2 | 1% |
| 2011 Outback | 8 | 1% |
| 2010 Outback | 23 | 6% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2004 Subaru Outback
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.