2004 Subaru Wrx problems
The Subaru WRX is an all-wheel drive sport compact car manufactured by the Japanese automaker Subaru, originally based on the Impreza created for the World Rally Championship in 1992. Subaru claimed the name WRX stands for "World Rally eXperimental". Starting with the 2015 models, the WRX lineup has been split from the Impreza, with a different body style that is not offered as an optional hatchback/wagon, being introduced as the separate Levorg model.
Impreza-based models (1992–2014)
The first three generations of the WRX, sold until the 2015 model year, were based on standard Impreza platforms, and replaced the Subaru RX hatchback and sedan.
The initial first-generation WRX models were based on the Impreza sedan (GC chassis code). They were followed by wagons (GF) in 1993 and the first upgraded WRX STi version, introduced in 1994. Several limited edition first-generation coupés were offered in the late 1990s and early 2000s which were never sold in the US and are highly sought after by Subaru enthusiasts.
The second-generation WRX (GD/GG chassis codes for the sedan/wagon, respectively) was brought over to the United States domestic market for model year 2002, with the STI being brought over for model year 2004. The initial "bugeye" front end styling (2000) was superseded by the "blobeye" in 2004 and the "hawkeye" in 2006. Under an agreement between Fuji Heavy Industries and General Motors, Saab sold its own version of the WRX, marketed as the Saab 9-2X, for the 2005 and 2006 model years. The 9-2X was available in both a standard (Linear) and performance (Aero) package, the latter was essentially identical to the second-generation WRX wagon, mechanically.
The third-generation WRX were sold as chassis codes GE (sedan) and GH (hatchback, replacing the earlier wagon version) initially; the third-generation WRX STI was sold with a widened chassis and was available only as a widebody hatch (GR). For the 2011 model year, the third-generation WRX sedan and hatch were moved to the GV and GR wide-body chassis variants, respectively, and a widebody sedan version of the STI (GV) was marketed. The Impreza was redesigned and the fourth-generation was first marketed for model year 2012, making it a distinct model from the WRX, which continued on the third-generation GV/GR chassis until 2014 in most markets.
The fourth-generation WRX were given the VA chassis designation and marketed as a separate model from the Impreza starting in 2015.
Social links
Common 2004 Subaru Wrx problems
The Subaru WRX 2004 is a popular car among enthusiasts, but it has its fair share of common problems that owners have reported. Here are some of the most common issues:
In summary, the Subaru WRX 2004 is a popular car among enthusiasts, but it has its fair share of common problems. These include oil leaks, high oil consumption, spun bearings, uppipe cat failure, headgasket failure, timing belt and waterpump issues, weak transmissions, rubber part failure, wheel bearing failures, and rust. It is essential to address these issues promptly to avoid further damage and ensure the car's longevity.
What are bad years for WRX?
The 2000-2002 and 2008-2016 versions are the worst on the market. There are some quality years available for the Subaru WRX STI if you're determined to invest in this vehicle. We recommend the 1992-1999, 2004-2007, or 2017-2022 selections for the best results.
What is the biggest problem with the WRX?
Subaru WRX Reliability Problems
- CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery. Too many owners of newer Subaru vehicles are waking up to cars that won't start due to dead batteries. ...
- Lineartronic CVT Reliability. ...
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires. ...
- Subaru EyeSight Problems. ...
- Rust and Corrosion Problems.
Do Subaru WRX have transmission problems?
The 1-800-LEMON-LAW hotline has been abuzz with Subaru WRX drivers calling in complaining about issues with their transmission and/or turbo engine. Problems include loss of power, check engine light, clutch noise, fluid leaks, and assorted transmission issues.
How long will a WRX engine last?
Several sources confirm that the Subaru WRX's boxer engine can last up to 250,000 miles if well taken care of. However, if the car is driven beyond its limits or not adequately maintained, it can significantly shorten the engine's lifespan. This could lead to significant issues as early as 60,000 miles.
What is the biggest problem with the WRX?
Subaru WRX Reliability Problems
- CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery. Too many owners of newer Subaru vehicles are waking up to cars that won't start due to dead batteries. ...
- Lineartronic CVT Reliability. ...
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires. ...
- Subaru EyeSight Problems. ...
- Rust and Corrosion Problems.
What are bad years for WRX?
The 2000-2002 and 2008-2016 versions are the worst on the market. There are some quality years available for the Subaru WRX STI if you're determined to invest in this vehicle. We recommend the 1992-1999, 2004-2007, or 2017-2022 selections for the best results.
How reliable is a 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STI?
In a nutshell, yes. STis are very reliable as far as high performance cars go, providing that they have not been heavily modified. As I mentioned above, the stock engine internals are only good to around 400awhp, and there are people out there who try to sell previously modified cars with blown motors.
Are Subaru WRX reliable?
So which is the most reliable Subaru WRX year? According to RepairPal, the Subaru WRX has a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, with a rank of 32nd out of 36 compact cars. Therefore, one can argue that the WRX isn't the most reliable compact car. However, it doesn't mean it's automatically an unreliable sedan.
2004 Subaru Wrx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Wrx problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Subaru Wrx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Subaru Wrx
The NHTSA has received 42 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Subaru Wrx. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Subaru Wrx vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-19
- VIN: JF1GG29664G
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: HAVING RECENTLY MOVED TO A COLD WEATHER STATE, I DISCOVERED THAT WHEN THE TEMPERATURE IS BELOW FREEZING THERE IS A SMELL OF GASOLINE IN THE PASSENGER CABIN. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH, SUBARU APPEARS TO BE AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM AND IN FACT ISSUED A RECALL ON EARLIER MODEL VEHICLES FOR THE SAME ISSUE. THE FUEL LINES AND CLAMPS SHRINK IN COLD WEATHER ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK AT THE FUEL FILTER OR MORE PROBLEMATICALLY ONTO THE INTAKE MANIFOLD NEAR THE TURBO. THIS HAS BEEN RESOLVED IN NEWER MODEL VEHICLES, BUT FOR SOME REASON SUBARU DECIDED NOT TO ISSUE A RECALL FOR THE 2004-2005 VEHICLES HAVING THIS PROBLEM. WHEN THE VEHICLE WARMS UP, THE HEAT OF THE ENGINE REDUCES OR ELIMINATES THE LEAKS. ALTHOUGH I WAS ABLE TO TIGHTEN THE HOSE CLAMPS, I SUSPECT THAT NEXT WINTER I WILL BE FACING THE SAME ISSUE AND/OR A $500-1000 REPAIR BILL FROM THE DEALER.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-28
- VIN: JF1GD296X4G
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: DURING COLD WEATHER FUEL SMELL COMING FROM ENGINE AND IS LEAKING
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-02
- VIN: JF1GD29634G
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE A 2004 WRX AND WHENEVER IT GETS COLD LOTS OF FUEL LEAKS FROM UNDER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD THERES A RECALL FOR THE SAME ISSUE IN 2002 2003 BUT IT STILL DOES IT ON MY CAR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-01
- VIN: JF1GD29625G
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL/SUBARU RECALL CAMPAIGN WQR-53 NHTSA RECALL NO. 15V-323 RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE IN MAY 2015 EXPLAINING THAT THE AIRBAG WAS RECALLED AND WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. LETTER STATES THAT UNTIL THE REPAIR IS PREFORMED, DO NOT ALLOW PASSENGERS TO RIDE IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT. I RECENTLY RECEIVED ANOTHER LETTER WITH THE SAME INFORMATION STATING THAT WHEN SUBARU ACQUIRES A SUFFICIENT SUPPLY OF PARTS TO PERFORM THE REPAIR, THEY WILL CONTACT ME ABOUT MAKING AN APPOINTMENT. I CALLED SUBARU 6 MONTHS AGO AND WAS TOLD THAT A DEALERSHIP SHOULD "LEND" ME A VEHICLE UNTIL THE REPAIR IS COMPLETE. I LEFT SEVERAL MESSAGES WITH DEALERSHIPS IN THE AREA AND NO ONE RETURNED MY PHONE CALL. IT HAS BEEN OVER A YEAR AND I AM NOT ABLE TO HAVE PASSENGERS IN MY VEHICLE. I USE MY CAR FOR WORK AND I NEED THIS FIXED. IT IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE AND I DO NOT WANT TO HAVE MY CHILDREN IN THE CAR UNTIL IT IS FIXED.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-10
- VIN: JF1GG29624G
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: DURING VEHICLE OPERATION IN COLDER WEATHER (32 DEG F OR COLDER), THERE IS A STRONG FUEL SMELL COMING FROM THE ENGINE BAY. FUEL LINES ARE LEAKING IN AN AREA CLOSE TO THE AIR INTAKE. THIS DOES NOT HAPPEN DURING WARMER WEATHER.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-01
- VIN: JF1GG29604G
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WAS NOTIFIED IN JULY 2015 OF DEFECTIVE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG WITH WARNING TO NOT USE THE PASSENGER SEAT.UPON FOLLOWUP WITH SUBARU ON 10-1-2015 WAS TOLD THAT PARTS WOULD NOT BE AVAILABLE UNTIL AFTER 12-1-2015. THIS MEANS 5 MONTHS WITHOUT FULL USE OF MY VEHICLE. THEIR LETTER REGARDING NHTSA RECALL 15V-323 INFORMED M TO CONTACT NHTSA AT THIS WEBSITE IF SUBARU FAILED TO REMEDY THE VEICLE WITHOUT CHARGE IN A TIMELY MANNER. 5 TO 6 MONTHS IS NOT A TIMELY MANER.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-14
- VIN: JF1GD29654G
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
- Summary: STRONG SMELL OF RAW FUEL COMING INTO PASSENGER COMPARTMENT DURING VERY COLD OUTSIDE TEMPERATURES. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-01
- VIN: JF1GD29644G
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: IN BELOW-FREEZING TEMPERATURES, THERE IS A FUEL SMELL COMING FROM THE ENGINE BAY. IT SEEMS TO START AT APPROXIMATELY 20 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT, AND BECOMES INCREASINGLY STRONG AT LOWER TEMPERATURES. ON A RECENT MORNING WHEN THE TEMPERATURE WAS 9 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT, THE SMELL WAS STRONG ENOUGH TO CAUSE A LIGHT-HEADED SENSATION. THIS APPEARS TO BE A KNOWN PROBLEM, WITH THERE ALREADY BEING A RECALL FOR SIMILAR VEHICLES. MANY VEHICLES EXCLUDED FROM THE RECALL, INCLUDING MY OWN, SEEM TO EXPERIENCE THE SAME PROBLEM. EVEN WORSE, SOME WHO HAVE HAD THE RECALL FIX PERFORMED HAVE STATED THAT THE FIX PRESCRIBED BY THE RECALL DOES NOT ALWAYS RESOLVE THE PROBLEM COMPLETELY. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-01
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1GD29644G
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AS A RESULT OF A MULTI-VEHICLE TRAFFIC ACCIDENT THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED CAUSING THE FEMALE OCCUPANT TO HAVE A FRONTAL SKULL FRACTURE FROM SHRAPNEL LIKE PIECES AND NEURO TRAUMA. THESE INJURIES LEAD HER TO BE UNCONSCIOUS AND ON LIFE-SUPPORT FOR 6 DAYS AND ULTIMATELY HER DEATH......UPDATED 11-24/14 *BF
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-08
- VIN: JF1GG296X48
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL LINES LEAK UPON COLD START UP IN THE WINTER. FUEL LEAKS ALL OVER ENGINE BLOCK, MY FEAR THAT THIS CAN CAUSE A FIRE. SUBARU'S ANSWER IS TO BRING IT IN, SPEND MONEY TO HAVE THE CAR LOOKED AT. ALL THE WHILE THEY WILL NOT PROVIDE ME WITH A COMP CAR AND THIS IS MY ONLY CAR. WITH WORK, SCHOOL AND TRYING TO MOVE AT THAT TIME IT WAS NOT POSSIBLE TO RELEASE THE CAR TO THEM AND HOPE IT LEAKED ON THAT DAY FOR THE TECH OR RISK HANDING OUT CASH EVERY TIME I TAKE IT IN FOR THEM TO LOOK AT. THEY KNOW THEY HAVE AN ISSUE THEY DON'T WANT TO FIX ANY LONGER. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE FOR SOME WRX'S AND THEY SAY THE PROBLEM WAS TAKEN CARE OF IN 2004, OBVIOUSLY NOT. IT APPEARS MY CAR WAS BUILT IN MID 2003...... AND IS POSSIBLE IN MY OPINION THAT MY CAR COULD HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH THESE FAULTY PARTS. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JF1GD29624G
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHEN IN FREEZING TEMPERATURES, MY CAR IS LEAKING GASOLINE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. GASOLINE FUMES ARE ENTERING THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAUSING NAUSEA,DIZZINESS AND COUGHING (HENCE I AM CLAIMING/CONSIDERING THIS AS PERSONAL INJURY). I CANNOT ALWAYS CLOSE THE EXTERNAL VENT BECAUSE OF FOGGING. THIS HAPPENS ALMOST EVERY TIME THE TEMPERATURE DROPS BELOW FREEZING. WORSE, I AM AFRAID OF THE ENGINE CATCHING FIRE. I WILL TAKE MY CAR TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. I JUST WANT TO REPORT THIS. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-27
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER STARTING MY CAR IN COLD WEATHER, I NOTICED A STRONG SMELL OF GAS. I FOUND THAT THERE WAS GAS POOLING ON TOP OF MY ENGINE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE, UNDER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. I TURNED THE CAR OFF AND THE GAS STOPPED LEAKING, BUT WHEN I TURNED IT ON AGAIN, I COULD SEE IT DRIPPING ON TO THE LOCATION THAT IT WAS POOLING. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-04
- VIN: JF1GD29614G
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: ON COLD MORNINGS LESS THAN 10 DEGREES A STRONG FUEL SMELL ENTERS THE VEHICLE. THIS ISSUE WAS SUBJECT TO RECALL ON 2002 AND 2003 MODEL CARS YET 2004 MODELS ALSO EXPERIENCE THIS PROBLEM. THIS IS A WIDE RANGING PROBLEM THAT EFFECTS MANY CARS ALL THE UP TO THE 2007 MODEL YEAR OF THE SUBARU IMPREZA. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN WELL DOCUMENTED SINCE 2002 ON THE LARGEST SUBARU IMPREZA WEB FORUM. HTTP://FORUMS.NASIOC.COM/FORUMS/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?T=131755. IT'S ABOUT TIME SUBARU FIXES THIS PROBLEM. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-17
- VIN: JF1GD29684G
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHEN I START MY CAR WHEN IT IS COLD OUT 20 DEGREES OR BELOW MY GAS LINE NEAR THE FUEL RAIL LEAKS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE ENGINE UNTIL THE CAR WARMS UP. IT LEAKS A LITTLE UP TO ENOUGH TO POOL ON THE ENGINE..IT WORRIES ME BECAUSE IT IS ON THE TURBO SIDE OF THE ENGINE WITH THE EXHAUST WHICH TEMPERATURES CAN REACH UP TO 1500 DEGREES. THE CAR COULD EASILY CATCH FIRE. IT IS A KNOWN PROBLEM IN SUBARU IMPREZA WRX MODELS 02-05 AND HAS BEEN BROUGHT TO SUBARUS ATTENTION MULTIPLE TIMES. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-06
- VIN: JF1GG29674G
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: STARTED VEHICLE AFTER SITTING OVERNIGHT IN SUB-30 DEGREE WEATHER AND A VERY STRONG SMELL OF RAW FUEL WAS EVIDENT IN VEHICLE. THIS HAPPENED ON MANY MORE OCCASIONS; IN ANY SITUATION WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS GIVEN TIME TO SIT IN COLD WEATHER. AFTER THE CLAMPS WERE TIGHTENED ON THE LINES, THE SMELL WAS DECREASED; BUT AFTER FEAR OF A FIRE THE LINES AND CLAMPS WERE THEN REPLACED BY MYSELF. AS SUBARU OF AMERICA WOULD NOT EXTEND THE RECALL TO MY 2004 VEHICLES AND I COULD NOT AFFORD TO PAY RETAIL FOR THE REPAIR. THIS WAS VERY DISAPPOINTING, AS THIS IS MY FIRST SUBARU AND IT WAS EVIDENT THAT THE DESIGN WAS FAULTY. AFTER REPLACING THE LINES AND CLAMPS, IT SEEMS AS THOUGH THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN RESOLVED. HOWEVER, I CANNOT RULE OUT THE POSSIBILITY OF REQUIRED REPAIR IN THE FUTURE. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-01
- VIN: JF1GD29684G
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN THE WEATHER WAS VERY COLD OUT, ABOUT 10F THERE WAS A NOTICEABLE GAS SMELL OUTSIDE THE CAR AND IN THE CABIN WHEN THE HVAC TURNED ON. THIS IS A FUEL LINE ISSUE WHICH IS KNOWN TO SUBARU - THERE IS A RECALL ON 2002-2003 WRX MODELS. HOWEVER THERE IS NO RECALL ON LATER MODELS SUCH AS MY 2004 WRX, WHICH ALSO SUFFER FROM THE PROBLEM. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-22
- VIN: JF1GD29674G
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: AT TEMPERATURES AT OR BELOW 15F THERE IS A FUEL LEAK FROM THE INLET MANIFOLD. CAN SEE GASOLINE LEAKING NEAR WHERE THE FUEL LINE ENTERS THE MANIFOLD. LEAK STOPS ONCE VEHICLE HAS WARMED UP. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-03
- VIN: JF1GD29634G
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I HAVE A 2004 WRX AND WHEN THE VEHICLE IS LEFT OUTSIDE DURING VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AT STARTUP, THERE IS A PROMINENT FUEL SMELL. THIS SEEMS TO OCCUR IF I LEAVE THE VEHICLE PARKED FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME (3+ HOURS) AT 20 DEGREE F OR BELOW. THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS REPORTS REGARDING THIS DEFECT REPORTED ON THE NASIOC FORUMS. IN ADDITION, THERE IS A RECALL REGARDING THIS SAME DEFECT FOR THE 2002-2003 WRX'S. I AM GREATLY CONCERNED ABOUT THE RISKS ASSOCIATE WITH RAW FUEL BEING DISPERSED ON THE ENGINE UPON STARTUP.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-05
- VIN: JF1GD29674G
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DURING COLD WEATHER (~36 F), THERE IS A STRONG FUEL SMELL IN THE CABIN. THE SMELL SEEMS TO BE COMING FORM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT (PASSENGER SIDE). THE SMELL DISAPPEARS AFTER THE ENGINE WARMS UP. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-01
- VIN: JF1GD70684L
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: 2004 SUBARU WRX STI. STRONG FUEL SMELL IN CABIN DURING COLD WEATHER. UPON START OF COLD ENGINE, AFTER A FEW MINUTES. SMELL OVERWHELMS CABIN TILL VEHICLE REACHES OPERATING TEMP. APPROX. 5-10 MIN. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-01
- VIN: JF1GD70654L
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR SUSPENSION STRUTS BIND AND CLUNK DUE TO LUBRICATION ISSUE. BOTH ORIGINAL STRUTS REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY AS WELL AS ONE OF THE REPLACEMENTS AND PROBLEM HAS RETURNED AGAIN FOR A TOTAL OF 5 FAILED STRUTS. WARRANTY HAS NOW EXPIRED AND REPAIR WOULD BE AT MY COST. THE BINDING HAS PROGRESSED UNABATED AND WILL LIKELY RESULT IN TIME IN COMPLETE FAILURE (FROZEN OR UNRESTRICTED MOVEMENT). *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-15
- VIN: JF1GD70654L
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DURING COLD WEATHER, STRONG FUEL ODOR IS PRESENT INDICATING A FUEL LEAK IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. EVENT IS REPEATABLE ON ANY DAY WHEN AMBIENT TEMP IS ~36 DEGREES F OR LESS AND LASTS UNTIL ENGINE HAS WARMED (ABOUT 15 MINUTES). DEALERSHIP REPORTS THAT THERE IS A SERVICE BULLETIN COVERING '02-'03 MY. ODOR IS STRONG ENOUGH IN CABIN TO CAUSE PHYSIOLOGICAL REACTIONS (HEADACHE, NAUSEA). *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-30
- VIN: JF1GD29684H
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: EACH TIME THE ENGINE IS STARTED FOR THE FIRST TIME AFTER ABOUT 4 HOURS OF NOT RUNNING, AND THE CAR IS PUT INTO MOTION, THE BRAKES FAIL TO EASILY STOP THE CAR. EXTREME PRESSURE IS REQUIRED TO BE APPLIED TO THE BRAKE PEDAL TO BRING THE CAR TO A FULL STOP. THIS CONDITION LASTS FOR SEVERAL MINUTES-UP TO APPROXIMATELY 3- WAS PRESENT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS NEW, AND CONTINUES. THE CAR'S UNSTOPPABLE AND CONTINUED FORWARD OR BACKWARD MOTION COULD CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH TO A PERSON IN FRONT OF OR BEHIND THE VEHICLE IN AN OUTDOOR SPACE SUCH AS A PARKING LOT, OR IN A VERY CONFINED SPACE LIKE A GARAGE. CARS WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ARE AT A DISADVANTAGE HERE, BECAUSE THEY CAN'T BE SLOWED BY DEPRESSING THE CLUTCH AS WITH A MANUAL TRANSMISSION. A REPORT TO THE NEW CAR DEALER AND THE REGIONAL MANAGER WERE DISMISSED BY ADVISING SIMPLY THAT GREATER BRAKE PRESSURE BE APPLIED. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-08
- VIN: JF1GG29634G
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL LINES ON TOP OF THE ENGINE LEAK DURING COLD WEATHER, BELOW 10 DEGREES F. THERE IS A STRONG FUEL ODOR OUT SIDE THE VEHICLE AND INSIDE WHEN THE VENTS ARE ON. THE SMELL GOES AWAY AFTER THE CAR IS COMPLETELY WARMED UP, 10-20 MINUTES OF DRIVING. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- VIN: JF1GD296X4G
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: IT HAS BEEN MUCH COLDER THAN USUAL HERE IN TENNESSEE AND I HAVE BEEN HAVING A VERY STRONG FUEL SMELL INSIDE THE CABIN OF MY 2004 SUBARU IMPREZA WRX. IT HAS HAPPENED EVERY TIME I HAVE DRIVEN OVER THE PAST THREE DAYS AND DOES SEEM TO GO AWAY WHEN I ACCELERATE BUT I HAVE COME TO BELIEVE THAT IS BECAUSE THE FUEL VAPOR IS BEING BLOWN AWAY BY THE MOVING OF THE AIR AROUND THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT WHILE DRIVING. AS SOON AS I SLOW OF COME TO A STOP THERE IS A STRONG RAW FUEL SMELL AGAIN. *TR
2004 Subaru Wrx recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2004 Subaru Wrx.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2004-2005 Impreza and WRX vehicles that received replacement front passenger air bag inflators under a previous recall. The replacement air bag inflators may have been installed incorrectly.
- Consequence: An incorrectly installed inflator may not properly inflate the passenger air bag, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the passenger inflator and if necessary, install a new inflator kit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 14, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRF-23.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
- Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
- Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Subaru Wrx problems:
Subaru WRX - Common Problems | Buyers Guide + Owners Advice ...
Dec 21, 2021 ... The Subaru WRX is an awesome car, but they have some major problems to look out for. This video will teach you about the top 10 common ...
Buying 2004 Subaru WRX Sedan. Any problems associated ...
Apr 26, 2009 ... I was a little confused by the burble noise that the motor makes when it is idleing but after some research found that very common with the ...
Buying a Used WRX: Common Problems - YouTube
Sep 25, 2017 ... Today I will be making a howto guide on how to buy a WRX. With many problems soon after my purchase, I thought some people would appreciate ...
common problems with a 04 Sti? - NASIOC
Aug 3, 2006 ... common problems with a 04 Sti? Newbies & FAQs. ... are 2004 sti's known for ... Copyright ©1999 - 2019, North American Subaru Impreza Owners Club, ...
What to Look out for BEFORE Buying a 2004-2005 Subaru WRX ...
Apr 13, 2022 ... 10:16. Go to channel · The SUBARU IMPREZA WRX STI BUYERS GUIDE | All Common Problems Reviewed. Scottish Car Clan•86K views · 16:17. Go to ...
Other years of Subaru Wrx
Are you having problems with your 2004 Subaru Wrx?
Leave your review of 2004 Subaru Wrx