SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) for 2.5i, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) with AVCS for GT models
Performance
Horsepower 2.5I:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 2.5I:
170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 2.5Gt:
250 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2.5Gt:
250 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Requirement Gt:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Sportshift
Features
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous center coupling
Automatic Transmission Mode:
Includes adaptive shift control
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Sedan:
187.6 inches (4765 mm)
Length Wagon:
189.1 inches (4803 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height Sedan:
57.9 inches (1470 mm)
Height Wagon:
58.1 inches (1475 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.0 inches (2640 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Starting:
3340 lbs (approx. for 2.5i Manual Sedan)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc ABS)
Traction Control:
Available on some trims
Electronic Stability Control:
Available on some trims
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in all positions, front seat pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio system with subwoofer and amplifier.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control (available on higher trims).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Optional on some models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe driving conditions) or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving conditions).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace at every oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles; replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles if operating in dusty conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Replace annually or every 15,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Check periodically; replacement interval typically 60,000-100,000 miles, consult manual.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Check periodically; replace fluid and filter every 30,000-60,000 miles, consult manual.
Coolant Replacement:
Replace every 30,000 miles or 24 months. Subaru Super Coolant is recommended.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Replace every 60,000 miles for iridium spark plugs (standard on many models).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API Service SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3, GF-4
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter (approx.)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol based antifreeze
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid
Known Issues
Head Gasket Leaks:
While more common on earlier EJ25 engines (pre-2005), some models may still experience head gasket issues. The 2004 model year is on the cusp of this potential issue.
Catalytic Converter Failure:
Can occur due to age, mileage, or engine issues leading to rich fuel mixture.
Suspension Component Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear over time, leading to noise and steering issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Subaru is known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems and horizontally-opposed Boxer engines, emphasizing safety and capability.
Model Evolution
Generation Introduction:
The BP/BL generation of the Subaru Legacy was introduced for the 2005 model year, meaning the 2004 model year represents the final year of the previous generation (BD/BG/BK).
Previous Generation:
The 2004 Legacy belongs to the third generation (BD/BG/BK, 1999-2004), which saw a significant redesign for the 2000 model year.
Production
Assembly Location:
Lafayette, Indiana, USA (Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. - SIA)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2004 Legacy often received good safety ratings from IIHS for its structural integrity.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied for this generation; consult specific year reports for detailed analysis.
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