One problem related to engine clicking and tapping noises has been reported for the 2004 Subaru Outback. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The contact owns a 2004 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the vehicle would exhibit an abnormal tapping noise when first started. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who replaced the pistons. The noise recurred and the vehicle was taken to another dealer who advised that they would need to replace the engine block with new pistons. The manufacturer was contacted who offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 32,000 and the current mileage was 50,100.