SUBARU OUTBACK (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 435 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
435
Avg Mileage
134,291 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 2004 SUBARU OUTBACK reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SUBARU brand average of 83%.
At 20 years old, 72% of SUBARU OUTBACKs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 435 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 134,291 miles.
How does the 2004 SUBARU OUTBACK compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 SUBARU OUTBACK has 134,291 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 OUTBACK?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2004 sits between the two at 72%.
How much does a 2004 SUBARU OUTBACK cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SUBARU OUTBACK by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 94% | 784 | 27,630 mi |
| 2020 | 91% | 407 | 34,925 mi |
| 2019 | 93% | 1,030 | 41,337 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 1,085 | 52,588 mi |
| 2017 | 91% | 746 | 62,472 mi |
| 2016 | 90% | 1,254 | 75,847 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 1,384 | 87,656 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 393 | 101,391 mi |
| 2013 | 81% | 415 | 100,053 mi |
| 2012 | 75% | 433 | 112,842 mi |
| 2011 | 81% | 883 | 114,449 mi |
| 2010 | 79% | 834 | 123,818 mi |
| 2009 | 77% | 501 | 115,908 mi |
| 2008 | 72% | 350 | 120,270 mi |
| 2007 | 72% | 609 | 123,973 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 729 | 130,846 mi |
| 2005 | 70% | 497 | 130,499 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 435 | 134,291 mi |
Checking a specific SUBARU OUTBACK?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 SUBARU OUTBACK
The 2004 SUBARU OUTBACK is a large car with a 2457cc petrol engine. 435 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 134,291 miles at 20 years old, SUBARU OUTBACK owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 SUBARU OUTBACK Fuel Costs
The 2457cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 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 OUTBACK?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SUBARU OUTBACK Reliability Trend
Newer SUBARU OUTBACKs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 SUBARU OUTBACK
At 20 years old, the SUBARU OUTBACK 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 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 94%.
Alternatives to the 2004 SUBARU OUTBACK
The SUBARU OUTBACK is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol large cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- RENAULT CLIO (2006) 68% pass rate (-4%) from 31,061 tests
- HONDA CR-V (2006) 72% pass rate (same) from 17,606 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT (2006) 72% pass rate (same) from 10,368 tests
- MERCEDES A-CLASS (2006) 72% pass rate (same) from 8,389 tests