SUBARU FORESTER (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,456 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
1,456
Avg Mileage
125,021 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2004 SUBARU FORESTER reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SUBARU brand average of 83%.
At 20 years old, 75% of SUBARU FORESTERs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,456 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 125,021 miles.
How does the 2004 SUBARU FORESTER compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 SUBARU FORESTER has 125,021 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a SUBARU FORESTER?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 71%. The 2004 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2004 SUBARU FORESTER cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SUBARU FORESTER by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 88% | 73 | 55,047 mi |
| 2020 | 89% | 117 | 56,363 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 968 | 40,774 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 1,617 | 49,495 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 1,501 | 59,999 mi |
| 2016 | 84% | 2,034 | 68,939 mi |
| 2015 | 83% | 1,719 | 75,172 mi |
| 2014 | 81% | 2,046 | 85,284 mi |
| 2013 | 78% | 1,244 | 95,454 mi |
| 2012 | 75% | 518 | 104,981 mi |
| 2011 | 78% | 1,406 | 110,401 mi |
| 2010 | 73% | 1,393 | 109,597 mi |
| 2009 | 72% | 837 | 108,694 mi |
| 2008 | 80% | 905 | 108,470 mi |
| 2007 | 75% | 1,559 | 109,753 mi |
| 2006 | 75% | 1,646 | 117,944 mi |
| 2005 | 74% | 1,750 | 122,626 mi |
| 2004 | 75% | 1,456 | 125,021 mi |
| 2003 | 71% | 1,132 | 133,554 mi |
| 2002 | 76% | 465 | 125,771 mi |
| 2001 | 72% | 391 | 122,762 mi |
| 2000 | 72% | 315 | 124,647 mi |
| 1999 | 77% | 344 | 125,516 mi |
| 1998 | 74% | 242 | 118,976 mi |
| 1997 | 64% | 44 | 134,428 mi |
Checking a specific SUBARU FORESTER?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 SUBARU FORESTER
The 2004 SUBARU FORESTER is a family car with a 1990cc petrol engine. 1,456 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 125,021 miles at 20 years old, SUBARU FORESTER owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 SUBARU FORESTER Fuel Costs
The 1990cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2004 SUBARU FORESTER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,017 (£168/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SUBARU FORESTER Reliability Trend
Newer SUBARU FORESTERs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 SUBARU FORESTER
At 20 years old, the SUBARU FORESTER is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 92%.
Alternatives to the 2004 SUBARU FORESTER
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2006) 73% pass rate (-2%) from 56,257 tests
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (-4%) from 45,707 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2006) 80% pass rate (+5%) from 40,353 tests
- RENAULT CLIO (2006) 68% pass rate (-7%) from 31,061 tests