Robertos Auto Sales

3323 MARKET ST NE, Salem, OR 97301
4.7
4.7 out of 5 stars

Used 2004 Subaru Forester XS

217,235 miles
For Sale:$3,995
Estimated payment:$91/mo.
$0 trade-in, 10% down payment, 48 months, Great credit score

Value ChartA visual chart indicating the fair price range is between $3,500 and $4,100, while the current price is $3,995.$3,500 - $4,100$3,995
  • Priced at $3,995, this vehicle is within the current market price range of $3,500 to $4,100.

  • It has 217,235 miles, which is 36,935 (20%) above the median mileage of 180,300.

Note: This is an estimate based on a variety of factors (experimental feature). It is intended to provide a fair market value range to help guide your buying decision.

View Full Value Report
  • Car
  • Wagon
  • Crossover
  • Spacious Front Legroom
  • Condition
    Used
  • Mileage
    217,235miles
  • Aggregate Ratings
    3
    3 out of 5 stars
  • Generation
    2(2003 - 2008)
  • Trim
    XS
  • Drivetrain
    All Wheel
  • Transmission
    4-Speed Automatic
  • MPG
    19 city25 highwayMax range: 375 miles
  • Exterior Color
    White
  • Interior Color
    Grey (Gray)Factory Paint Code:--
  • Upholstery
    Cloth
  • Doors
    4
  • Max Seating
    5
  • Max Towing Capacity
    2,400lbs.
  • Ground Clearance
    7.5inch
  • Final Assembly Point
    Gunma, Japan
  • VIN
    JF1SG65654H745487
  • Starting MSRP
    $23,820

Engine2.5L H4 Gasoline 165hp

  • Fuel Type:Gasoline
  • Max Horsepower:165 hp @ 5600 rpm
  • Power to Weight Ratio:18.76lbs/hp
  • Max Torque:166 ft.lbf @ 4000 rpm
  • Displacement:2.5liters
  • Block Type:H
  • Cylinders:4
  • Aspiration:Naturally Aspirated
  • Fuel Induction:Fuel Injection
  • Cam Type:SOHC
  • Valves:16

Message from the seller

Roberto's Auto Sales have more than 25 yrs experience, serving the community with the vehicle's needs, we have EZ financing, all inventory has a clean title, we have car fax available, call or text me at 971-208-2239 for any questions. Introducing the 2004 Subaru Forester XS - a reliable and versatile vehicle designed to tackle all of life's adventures. With its spacious interior, impressive handling, and powerful engine, this Forester XS is the perfect companion for any journey.

Under the hood, you'll find a 2L NA H4 single overhead cam (SOHC) 16V engine, providing you with plenty of power and efficiency for your daily commute or off-road excursions. The smooth and responsive driving experience is further enhanced by its all-wheel drive system, ensuring maximum traction and control in any weather condition.

Step inside and you'll be greeted by a comfortable and well-equipped cabin. The extra spacing in this Forester XS allows for ample legroom and headroom, making it ideal for passengers of all sizes. The high-quality materials and modern technology features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system and Bluetooth connectivity, add an extra layer of convenience and luxury to your driving experience.

But the 2004 Subaru Forester XS isn't just about comfort and style - it's also a top performer when it comes to safety. With its advanced airbag system, anti-lock brakes, and stability control, you can have peace of mind knowing that you and your passengers are well-protected on the road.

Don't miss your chance to own this exceptional 2004 Subaru Forester XS. Visit our dealership today and take it for a test drive. With its impressive features and extra spacing, it's sure to exceed all of your expectations. Hurry, this Forester XS won't be on our lot for long!

  • Comfort & Seating:

    • Heated Seats
  • Convenience:

    • Automatic Climate Control
  • Exterior:

    • Heated Mirrors

  • Air Conditioning

    • Front air conditioning: automatic climate control
    • Front air conditioning
  • Airbags

    • Side airbags: front
    • Front airbags: dual
  • Audio System

    • In-Dash CD: 6 disc
    • In-Dash CD: MP3 Playback
    • Radio: AM/FM
  • Brakes

    • ABS: 4-wheel
    • Power brakes
  • Comfort Features

    • Shift knob trim: leather
    • Steering wheel trim: leather
  • Convenience Features

    • Steering wheel: tilt
    • Center console
    • Cruise control
    • Power steering
    • Multi-function remote: keyless entry
    • Overhead console: front
  • Drivetrain

    • Limited slip differential: rear
    • Limited slip differential: center
  • Instrumentation

    • Clock
    • Gauge: tachometer
  • Lights

    • Daytime running lights
    • Front fog lights
    • Exterior entry lights: approach lamps
  • Mirrors

    • Side mirror adjustments: power
    • Side mirrors: heated
  • Roof

    • Roof rack crossbars: black
  • Seats

    • Passenger seat: heated
    • Driver seat: heated
    • Front seat type: bucket
    • Upholstery: cloth
    • Rear seat type: split-bench
  • Security

    • Anti-theft system: alarm
    • Power door locks
  • Tires and Rims

    • Wheels: aluminum alloy
    • Wheel diameter: 16 inch
  • Windows

    • Front wipers: intermittent
    • Window defogger: rear
    • Power windows
    • Rear wiper

  • LEV:

    • Air Pollution Score:2
    • Greenhouse Gas Score:5
    • Fuel Type:Gasoline
    • Epa Underhood Id:4FJXV02.5PGT
  • B8:

    • Air Pollution Score:3
    • Greenhouse Gas Score:6
    • Fuel Type:Gasoline
    • Epa Underhood Id:4FJXV02.5SHU
  • B9:

    • Air Pollution Score:2
    • Greenhouse Gas Score:5
    • Fuel Type:Gasoline
    • Epa Underhood Id:4FJXV02.5PGT

2004 Subaru Forester

The 2004 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that carved out a niche for itself by blending the practicality and all-wheel-drive capability of an SUV with the more car-like driving dynamics and fuel efficiency of a wagon. It was designed for those who needed more versatility than a sedan but didn't want the bulk or thirst of a larger SUV. For 2004, the Forester received a significant redesign, bringing a more modern look and improved features.

Highlights

  • Engine:
    • 2.5L Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 Engine: This engine produced 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. Its Boxer design, with cylinders horizontally opposed, contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling. It's known for its distinctive rumble and smooth operation.
    • 2.5L Turbocharged Boxer-4 Engine (XT Models): The Forester XT packed a punch with its turbocharged version of the 2.5L engine, delivering a robust 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. This offered significantly sportier performance, making it a favorite for enthusiasts.
  • Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Standard on all trims, Subaru's Symmetrical AWD system is a key selling point. It constantly distributes power to all four wheels, providing excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions, from rain and snow to light off-road adventures. The system's design is mechanically geared to provide a balanced distribution of power for predictable handling.
  • Safety Features:
    • Standard Front-Impact Airbags: These airbags are designed to deploy in a frontal collision to cushion the occupants.
    • Standard Front-Seat Side-Impact Airbags: These airbags deploy from the sides of the seats to protect the torso and pelvis in a side-impact collision.
    • Four-Wheel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control and potentially shorten stopping distances on slippery surfaces.
    • Daytime Running Lights: These lights are automatically activated when the engine is running, increasing the vehicle's visibility to other road users, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Trims:
    • Forester X: The base model, offering a solid foundation of features and Subaru's renowned AWD system.
    • Forester XS: An upgrade from the X, typically adding amenities like alloy wheels, a premium audio system, and exterior styling enhancements.
    • Forester XT: The performance-oriented trim, featuring the turbocharged engine and often enhanced suspension components for sportier handling.
  • Practicality & Versatility: The Forester's wagon-like profile provides a generous cargo area, especially with the rear seats folded down. Its elevated ride height offers good visibility and ease of entry/exit compared to a sedan.
  • Refined Ride and Handling: Compared to many truck-based SUVs of the era, the Forester offered a more comfortable and car-like ride, with composed handling and less body roll, thanks to its independent suspension and lower center of gravity.

What to Expect

Ownership of a 2004 Subaru Forester generally means a reliable and capable experience, especially for those who value all-wheel-drive capability for their daily driving needs.

  • Typical Ownership Experience: Owners often appreciate the Forester's predictability and sure-footedness in all weather conditions. It's a vehicle that can handle grocery runs, family outings, and the occasional unpaved road with confidence. The driving position is commanding, offering good outward visibility.
  • Maintenance: Subaru vehicles are known for their durability, but like any car, regular maintenance is crucial. Common maintenance items include oil changes, filter replacements, brake inspections, and tire rotations. Given the age of these vehicles, attention should be paid to the timing belt (which typically needs replacement every 90,000-105,000 miles, or about every 7-10 years), as a broken timing belt can cause catastrophic engine damage. Other potential areas to monitor include the exhaust system, suspension components (especially bushings), and various fluid levels.
  • Insurance: Insurance costs for a 2004 Subaru Forester are generally moderate, though this can vary significantly based on location, driving record, coverage levels, and the specific trim level (the XT might be slightly higher due to its performance). As with any AWD vehicle, some insurers may offer slight discounts for the added traction.

Potential Considerations

While the 2004 Subaru Forester is a well-regarded vehicle, there are a few points potential buyers should be aware of:

  • Head Gasket Issues: This is a well-known potential problem with naturally aspirated Subaru engines of this generation. Head gaskets can fail, leading to coolant leaks into the combustion chambers or oil. This is a significant repair, so it's crucial to check for any signs of coolant loss or milky oil.
  • Turbocharger Maintenance (XT Models): The turbocharged XT models offer more performance but also require more diligent maintenance of the turbocharger system. This includes ensuring the engine oil is changed regularly with the correct type of oil, as poor lubrication can lead to premature turbo failure. Also, allowing the turbo to cool down after hard driving can extend its life.
  • Interior Materials and Design: While functional, the interior materials in the 2004 Forester might feel a bit utilitarian or dated by modern standards. Some plastics can show wear and tear over time.
  • Road Noise: Compared to more modern vehicles, the Forester can be susceptible to higher levels of road and wind noise, especially at highway speeds.
  • Fuel Economy: While better than many larger SUVs, the fuel economy of the Forester, particularly the XT model, is not class-leading, especially by today's standards.

Overall Summary

The 2004 Subaru Forester is a capable and versatile compact SUV that excels in providing all-wheel-drive confidence in a practical and relatively car-like package. Its distinctive Boxer engine and standard Symmetrical AWD make it a compelling choice for those seeking a vehicle that can handle diverse weather conditions and offer a more engaging driving experience than many of its contemporaries. While potential buyers should be mindful of possible maintenance needs, particularly regarding head gaskets on non-turbo models and turbo maintenance on XT variants, a well-maintained 2004 Forester remains a dependable and enjoyable vehicle for its intended purpose.

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Listed on March 19, 2026 (a month ago)
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