Approx. 3100-3400 lbs (depending on trim and transmission)
Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended (typically)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
Good
IIHS Offset Front:
Good
IIHS Side Impact:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on automatic models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, available front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD audio system with 4 or 6 speakers. Optional premium audio systems available on higher trims.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control standard, with optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
All Wheel Drive:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard across all trims.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack available on some models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (Iridium type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (for EJ253). The EJ204 is a timing chain engine.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher certified.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or Dexron III compatible.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less common on the EJ253 compared to earlier EJ25 engines, head gasket leaks can still occur, especially with high mileage or improper maintenance.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be a wear item and may require replacement.
Cv Joints:
The constant velocity (CV) joints, particularly the front ones, can wear out over time, leading to clicking noises during turns.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
The 4EAT can sometimes experience harsh shifting or solenoid issues. Regular fluid changes are critical.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru History:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its commitment to All-Wheel Drive technology and boxer engines.
Model Evolution
Legacy Generation:
Third Generation (BP/BL), 2004-2009. This generation introduced a more rounded and aerodynamic design, increased interior space, and refined powertrains.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2004 Subaru Legacy received good ratings from the IIHS for its crashworthiness, contributing to its reputation for safety.
NHTSA Overall Safety:
Achieved strong overall safety ratings from NHTSA in frontal and side impact tests.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.