Subaru Forester trunk won’t open
Nothing is damaged but my trunk will not open. It looks like it is partially open but nothing seems to be wrong with it. It just won’t budge.
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2004 Subaru Forester Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Write a reviewMaking fathers happy everywhere, the 2004 Subaru Forester adds a turbocharged model, easing the pain of of owning a safe, reliable suburban family car. The 2004 Forester now comes in 2.5X, 2.5XS, and 2.5XT. The XT hits 210-hp with the turbocharged 2.5-liter H4, which normally gets 165-hp. A 5-speed manual and 4-speed auto tran are available transmissions.
The AWD Forester is praised for its performance in bad weather and road conditions, though low ground clearance and lack of low range gearing prohibit serious off-roading. It also earns 5 stars from the NHTSA in front and side crash tests, thanks to dual front and side impact air bags, ABS brakes, 16-inch tires, and active head restraints. Other nice features include a Hill Hold (which also can be turned off) to prevent rollback. The base X comes with foglights, power features, folding mirrors, roof rack, intermittent front and rear wipers, cruise control, and keyless entry. The XS and XT add on automatic climate control, heated seats, a 6-CD player, and leather-wrapped wheel. On both the XS and XT, a Premium Package adds a nearly roof-length power sunroof and leather seats.
Rear seats split-fold 60/40 for 64 cubic feet of cargo room, which is still below the 2004 Forester's closest competitors, such as the RAV4 and CR-V. But the turbo power is what makes the latest Forester fun to drive, with little turbo lag and lots of pickup thanks to the light weight of the compact SUV. Drivers also like the car-like handling, quiet engine, visibility, and the reliable AWD performance. Families like the high safety ratings. Downsides include limited rear legroom, limited off-roading capability, and a non-intuitive climate control system.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2004 Subaru Forester
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Blake M
Sep 16, 2024
I owned one of these until about two weeks ago when it was stolen two days after I finished the big project, so I know these cars well. Its basically a 2004 STI wagon with WRX turbo, suspension, steering, brakes, etc.
The best thing to do, #1, take the filters out of banjo bolts out of AVCS and turbo oil feed lines, then swap that catted up-pipe with a non-catted unit from an STI. While youre at it, swap in the vf39,43, or 48 turbo from an STI with the Intercooler, a 3 catted downpipe, a free-flowing catback (I went with oem STI) and a bigger fuel pump, and you have yourself an STI Killer. Especially with the tall gear ratios of the Forester XT 5-speed, its an absolute sleeper. Until you put gold 18 Enkei RPF1s with WRB 4pot/2pot brakes and all WRB suspension braces, but thats probably why the crackhead stole it and is still driving around in Portland, Oregon. Sep 16, 2024
by Anonymous
Jul 22, 2023
Best Vehicle ever. Great gas milage comfortable looks great love itJul 22, 2023
by Dji-Alexandra R
Dec 04, 2021
I think the Subaru 2004 Forester Turbo is a fantastic car. Extremely easy and fun to drive. This particular car had all the premium features. Leather and heated seats, moon/sun roof and 6 CD am/fm radio. The only requirement is that you use premium gas in this performance engine Turbo model.Dec 04, 2021
User rating:
by Blake M
Sep 16, 2024
I owned one of these until about two weeks ago when it was stolen two days after I finished the big project, so I know these cars well. Its basically a 2004 STI wagon with WRX turbo, suspension, steering, brakes, etc.
The best thing to do, #1, take the filters out of banjo bolts out of AVCS and turbo oil feed lines, then swap that catted up-pipe with a non-catted unit from an STI. While youre at it, swap in the vf39,43, or 48 turbo from an STI with the Intercooler, a 3 catted downpipe, a free-flowing catback (I went with oem STI) and a bigger fuel pump, and you have yourself an STI Killer. Especially with the tall gear ratios of the Forester XT 5-speed, its an absolute sleeper. Until you put gold 18 Enkei RPF1s with WRB 4pot/2pot brakes and all WRB suspension braces, but thats probably why the crackhead stole it and is still driving around in Portland, Oregon. Sep 16, 2024
by Anonymous
Jul 22, 2023
Best Vehicle ever. Great gas milage comfortable looks great love itJul 22, 2023
by Dji-Alexandra R
Dec 04, 2021
I think the Subaru 2004 Forester Turbo is a fantastic car. Extremely easy and fun to drive. This particular car had all the premium features. Leather and heated seats, moon/sun roof and 6 CD am/fm radio. The only requirement is that you use premium gas in this performance engine Turbo model.Dec 04, 2021
by Mike S
Feb 17, 2021
You can not ever go wrong with a Subie. If you take care of it, it will take care of youFeb 17, 2021
by Chris W
Feb 09, 2014
As far as the pros/cons go, I'm not very picky in that department. We like it so much that I went ahead and bought a second one just like it. It is a decently efficient daily and rather-to-highly efficient since it is a full time- AWD car. Most imports are known for high reliability, this is no different. With low-medium rated snow tires, I've not had any loss of control with snow, even trying to slide in a parking lot. Ice is obvious, regardless of your vehicle or experience, be careful as you can slide and/or lose control. Feb 09, 2014
by Anonymous
Nov 09, 2013
Not much to dislike about this car! I looked down at the middle divider and found seat heating switches! I didn't know it had that! For a 186,000 mile car, you would have thought it was only 25,000 miles, power, speed, even looks!Nov 09, 2013
by Marianne G
Dec 29, 2012
Jeg har ikke prøvd bilen enda siden jeg fikk den, men er den like bra som min forje Forester er den super. :-)
Forester har et stillig utseende og er verdens beste vinterbil.
Dette er en bil som passer mange og de som har hatt en vil veldig sjelden gå over til noe annet merke.Dec 29, 2012
by Anonymous
May 28, 2012
The car is basic car. We bought it for family needs. It has been very reliable. Wonderful in bad weather because of its all wheel drive. It is the older model compared to the larger and higher upgraded new models of this car. May 28, 2012
by Stephan S
Nov 01, 2010
Acceleration from 0-100kph was about 6.7 seconds maybe faster. Note that
this was the JDM model so it was actually faster than the import model. Braking
was pretty good and handling was sweet (AWD). Extremely low maintenance,
highly durable but maybe having to always buy octane boost and stuff for the
turbo would add up. The Forester isn't really known for it's looks. The exterior
was okay but definitely not good while the interior was pretty normal except for
the momo steering and shifter as well as the bucket seats with a mix of leather
and cloth upholstery which added a sportier feel to the Forester. By far the
most fun car I have ever driven although, I haven't driven much cars that were
built for speed but hey the 03' Subaru Forester XT JDM model is truly a sweet
ride.Nov 01, 2010
by Sean W
Oct 05, 2010
Pros: Awesome AWD, 2.5 Turbo motor is the same found in the STI of the same year (but smaller turbo and intercooler), 4.44 Final drive 5 speed transmission, heated seats, and the ridiculously good sound that comes out of the exhaust pipe.
Cons: Suspension is too soft, body roll, brakes could be better, the back of the car is anything but pretty, and below average noise insulation throughout.Oct 05, 2010
by Vicki B
Jul 31, 2010
I always wanted a Forester ever since they first came out. I finally purchased one just a couple of weeks ago and love it! I love driving it, being in it, looking at it. It is everything I had hoped for. It has reduced my stress of commuting to work, and is fun and comfortable for recreational driving. I am an artist and it has plenty of space for all my equipment with easy access. No more knee aches and pains....access and seating are just the right height. Jul 31, 2010
by Greg B
Mar 04, 2010
the forester is a wild beast does 0-100kn/h in about 6
seconds flat awesome all-wheel drive capability and with
those heavy duty sway bars it has no body role which is very
good for a car with 16cm ground clearance. its terrible on
fuel it looks like its a sleeper and it is great fun to drive
especially on moist dirt roads out in the brindy's. Mar 04, 2010
by Zaid O
Sep 14, 2009
Handling fantastic. Most fun I've had in car... that's for the last four years. I enjoy driving to work in the mornings & back in the evening. Reliability is legendary. Subaru only use genuine parts, so make sure you have a maintenance plan. It's also less attractive to thieves.Sep 14, 2009
by John G
Sep 11, 2009
performace: the car accelerates like crazy, its faster than a wrx. and it also handles amazing.
build: perfect. thank you subaru
appearance: more beautiful than anything ever.
cost: 10k for a car worth 16k? yes.
fun factor?: on a scale of 1-10... 40.Sep 11, 2009
by Aaron B
Jul 21, 2009
I love the ability to go anywhere, do anything, and get there in a hurry. It can go off-roading with the SUV's, then get back on the road and smoke Mustang GT's all day long. It is a great all around car. I wouldn't trade it for anything.Jul 21, 2009
by Mike N
Jul 11, 2009
Its an STI in disguise, case in point why would an ordinary Forester have ceramic brake pads?? Plus it has more room to haul around all of your stuff and who doesn't need that?? Turbo need I say more?? and ground clearance.Jul 11, 2009
by Anonymous
Apr 16, 2009
Great car. The interior has nicely thought-out styling and design, with curves and circles that all tie together. With seats up and a wash, it's presentable for work. With seats down it's an excellent worker around the farm and dog taxi, bike taxi, fence post hauler, etc. I've had no unexpected maintenance or repairs. It's fun to drive, and has good visibility in all directions. I love this car. My only disappointment is that it will probably run forever, and I will not get a chance to buy a new one!Apr 16, 2009
by Jake M
Feb 21, 2009
This car is WICKED fast. Turbo-charged 2.5 liter boxer engine. A small SUV/tall wagon that has all-wheel drive and goes 0-60 in 5.3 seconds. Faster than the iconic 350Z and most other sportscars. I love when a kid pulls up next to me in his civic with fart pipes. Must feel crappy getting smoked by the wagon with the kids in the back seat. Never had a problem with it. Great car. Will be buying another Subaru soon.Feb 21, 2009
by Julie M
Feb 21, 2009
like it as a practical family car with a bit of grunt. the car severely lacks good looks but i really like driving it around the city and would recommend it over any stupid MPV (apart from the Ford S-Max..)Feb 21, 2009
by Yan M
Aug 19, 2008
It has it all: space for small family, fast, luxury, reliable...
I love it!!! I just got it, so I haven't really found any down sides yet, but I heard the brakes aren't perfect... A bit of turbo lag also, but not too bad. It's not an Audi Allroad, but it's still pretty awesome!Aug 19, 2008
by L Cecilia C
Aug 01, 2008
I dislike the way the dealership has what I consider rip off prices. Every couple of months they insist on checking and repairing items. When they check the car out it can be as much as $300 - $500 depending on what they do. Usually it is only add fluid to the various areas of the car to top them off.
What I like the dealership Pick up and drop off service when the car is in the shop for more than 1/2 hour. They take me to my office and if I can't get a ride back they pick me up and take me back to the dealership to get my car.Aug 01, 2008
by Tommy G
Jul 16, 2008
Overall the Subaru Forester is a good, car. It's Handling is superb, and the All wheel drive is great. Although, the outside appearance leaves something to be desired. The cost of ownership is alright, the gas and insurance is not too expensive. This car gets through it all, and, or the right people, is fun to driveJul 16, 2008
by Ernie J
Jul 05, 2008
Faster than a 350Z, room for a family of 5 and a dog, 5 star crashtest ratings, taxed as a station wagon, 8 inch clearance underneath, top speed 130+ mph.
Two dislikes: 21mpg and requires Super...Jul 05, 2008
by John P
Jun 23, 2008
Like: Well built, optioned up (sunroof, leather etc). Reliable & versatile.
Dislike: too practical, got no balls when you step on the gas. Handles like the Titanic.
Jun 23, 2008
by Joe M
May 31, 2008
A go fast machine on any road under any conditions. My greatest regret was trading "up" to the 2007 model, which couldn't hold a candle to this one. The 2004 Forester XT was the only model in Subaru's 2004 lineup to have the 2.5 litre STI (besides the STI of course) block in it. It was built on the impreza platform and with the STI engine and a smaller turbo, it was the second quickest car they made that year, which pissed a lot of WRX owners off. Of all the cars I've owned, this one was second only to my current STI, and the only one I would even mention in the same sentence as the STI.May 31, 2008
by Anonymous
May 31, 2008
Overall, powerful car.May 31, 2008
by Al H
May 29, 2008
Great gas mileage. Super comfortable. Reliable.May 29, 2008
by Anonymous
Apr 02, 2008
It handles well, has good brakes, and has solid handling.Apr 02, 2008
by Steven M
Mar 22, 2008
Great Car, wonderful acceleration and handling, I've scared a few Mustang GTs with'erMar 22, 2008
by Dave Z
Jan 11, 2008
0 - 100 in 6 seconds! The family wagon that leaves P - Platers for dead!Jan 11, 2008
by Peter C
Dec 05, 2007
A 2.5 litre engine is large for a 4 cylinder engine, produces ~170 horsepower so it has a decent engine, great handleing in rain and snow because of AWD. This car beat out my friends V6 convertable going 0-60Dec 05, 2007
by Liam B
Nov 05, 2007
Handles like a dream, never had a problem with it, sad to see it go.Nov 05, 2007
What users have asked
misfiring
I have recently purchased a 2004 Subaru Forester. It's running really rough. Engine shaking like it's misfiring. I pulled the spark plugs and found (I believe) the 2 and 4 cylinders are not firing. I replace with new spark plugs, and it's still running rough. I replaced the wires and still running rough. The spark plugs are getting spark, but when I pulled them out to a compression check (all cylinder have very good compression), I noticed two of the spark plugs looked like they came right from the box and the other two looked like they have been firing.... What could course this?
2773 views
Why can't cargurus pay help with transaction?
I am selling my car, but Cargurus Pay says it can't help with the transaction. I do not understand why or how to fix it. I live in NY state, the car has no liens, and my ID is verified.
44 views
2005 forester x engine into 2004 forester xs
Got an 05 forester x model and looking to donate that engine into my 04 forester xs, Anyone one have rough idea of the costs to do swap...
44 views
2004 subaru forester hatch won't always unlock
if I auto-lock the 2004 forester, the trunk hatch won't always release. I have kept the unlock button pressed for 20/30 seconds- no joy. Something clicks, but the heavier sounding latch release doesn't come.
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Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2004 Subaru Forester?Compare this car
2004 Subaru Forester Pricing
Original MSRP
$21,570 to $25,645Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
Limited slip differential: center
Exterior Features
Skid plate(s): front and rear
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
Limited slip differential: rear
Exterior Features
Skid plate(s): front and rear
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Drivetrain
Limited slip differential: center
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent