Subaru Baja problems
The Subaru Baja is an all-wheel-drive, four passenger, four-door utility, UTE. Manufactured from 2002 to 2006 by Subaru and marketed for model years 2003 to 2006. The Baja combines the handling and passenger carrying characteristics of a traditional passenger car with the open-bed versatility and load capacity of a very small pickup truck.
The unibody design borrowed heavily from the existing mechanicals, platform and sheet metal of the Subaru Legacy/Outback wagon. Production began on July 18, 2002 as a 2003 model at the Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. factory in Lafayette, Indiana.
The name Baja derives from the Mexican peninsula of Baja California; home to the Baja 1000 off-road race.
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Subaru Baja model years
Common Subaru Baja problems
The Subaru Baja, produced from 2003 to 2006, is known for its unique design and versatility. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems reported by owners.
One of the most frequently reported issues is head gasket failure. This problem is particularly prevalent in the 2003 to 2005 Subaru Baja models, which use the 2.5-liter engine. The head gaskets on these engines are known to fail around 150,000 to 200,000 miles, leading to significant engine damage if not addressed promptly. Replacement head gaskets are an upgrade to the original ones and, when installed correctly, should last the lifetime of the engine.
Another issue reported by Subaru Baja owners is transmission problems. The Baja's transmission and four-wheel drive components are known to cause concerns, especially in high-mileage vehicles. These components may need to be repaired or replaced, depending on their condition and the vehicle's history.
Furthermore, some owners have reported fuel pump failures in their Subaru Bajas. This issue is not exclusive to the Baja but affects various Subaru models. The fuel pump may fail due to manufacturing defects, which can lead to engine stalling or difficulty starting the vehicle.
Battery system drain is another problem that has affected some Subaru Baja owners. This issue can lead to a dead battery, especially in vehicles that are not driven frequently. A class-action lawsuit was filed against Subaru of America regarding this problem, alleging that certain models, including the Subaru Baja, had a defect that caused the battery to drain prematurely.
Lastly, some Subaru Baja owners have reported unintended acceleration issues. This problem is not exclusive to the Baja but has been reported in other Subaru models as well. The issue can be caused by various factors, including mechanical failures or software glitches in the vehicle's acceleration system.
In summary, the Subaru Baja has several common problems that owners should be aware of, including head gasket failure, transmission issues, fuel pump failures, battery system drain, and unintended acceleration. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify these issues early on and prevent more significant problems down the road.
What are the cons of the Subaru Baja?
Cons from Owners
One con of owning a Subaru Baja is that is does not get amazingly great gas mileage. Another con is that it has a lot of maintenance needed every year. Because this model is no longer made it can be expensive to get fixed.
What is the problem with the 2005 Subaru Baja?
Subaru stopped making the Baja after the 2006 model year AND the 2005 model was laden with problems according to Consumer Reports, which included: Major and Minor Engine issues, Major and Minor Transmission issues, Drive System & Fuel System issues as well.
Why did they stop making Subaru Baja?
Why was the Subaru Baja discontinued? Relative to full-size pickups, the Subaru Baja was small and expensive. Research showed that the original Subaru Baja didn't cater enough to the luxury expectation of brand loyalists. The good news is, Subaru, the #1 brand for Brand Trust, is about to solve all those old problems.
How rare is a Subaru Baja?
I don't know how familiar you are with the Baja since fewer than 30,000 were sold over its brief four-and-a-half-year model run, but one glance at it should clue you in on its Outback wagon origins.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Baja years
We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Baja cars and compiled the top 4 most problematic Subaru Baja model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Baja model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Baja years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Subaru Baja car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Baja , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Gasoline problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Baja vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Baja model years
A total of 10 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Baja model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Baja model years
There were a total of 9 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 117 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Baja . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Baja vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Subaru Baja 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-05
- VIN: 4S4BT61C937
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: At the beginning of April, I purchased a 2003 Subaru Baja from Roseville Auto Center for $10,500 and was reassured by the salesman that it passed a safety inspection and that there were no leaks in the head gasket. I did my own inspection under the hood and underneath the vehicle. I found there to be undercoat sealant which made sense as the vehicle was from Pennsylvania. I asked about the rust condition of the car to which I was once again reassured that it was okay. I took the car home and the following week I took it to my mechanic to see where I should start on modifications and upgrades. However, upon doing a multipoint inspection with the car on a lift he discovered that the undercoat sealant had been sprayed over duct tape to conceal rust holes in the running boards. Further, the undercoat had been sprayed after the frame had gotten significantly damaged by rust, not as a preventative measure as it’s intended to be used. The frame has severe rust damage as does the steering, suspension, and worst of all, the brakes. The backing plates for the brakes are almost entirely disintegrated. Additionally, my mechanic discovered that there was oil and coolant which had leaked from the engine, indicating that there was in fact a head gasket leak. So, this vehicle is in an unusably unsafe condition with a head gasket leak which makes it unreliable. The vehicle was purchased under false pretenses due to intentional misrepresentation by the salesman regarding the reliability and safety of the vehicle. Furthermore, I’ve spoken to multiple mechanics and a dealership and none of them want to attach their name to this vehicle because of the liability attached to it due to these safety issues. Beyond this I have done extensive research to find out how much it would cost to repair these issues and replace these parts myself and it would cost me more than the cost of the vehicle let alone the actual value of the car. Finally, I am going to be unable to sell the vehicle for anyt
Subaru Baja 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-06
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-08
- VIN: 4S4BT63C755
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Subaru Baja. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the contact noticed an unusual squeaking sound coming from the vehicle. The contact drove the vehicle to a safe location and parked the vehicle. The contact exited the vehicle and inspected the vehicle. The contact walked around the vehicle, and while inspecting the exterior of the vehicle, he became aware that the rear driver’s side tire was leaned in toward the vehicle. Upon further inspection, the contact noticed that the rear subframe was fractured and missing parts. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 174,000.
Subaru Baja 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-01
- VIN: 4S4BT62C467
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brake fluid low (light on), added fluid. A week later the fluid is low again. Found recalls for this year Outback with similar potential problem. Upon inspection it appears that fluid is leaking at or near the coupler near the passenger rear wheel well. The BAJA is mechanically the same as the Outback. This model should be included on theses recalls. NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V110000 NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V311000
Subaru Baja 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-05
- VIN: 4S4BT62C237
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Subaru Baja. The contact stated that upon inspection the vehicle, the contact discovered severe corrosion to the rear subframe. The contact called the manufacturer and was referred to a specialist. The contact was yet to receive a call back from the specialist. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that other model vehicles had experienced a similar failure. Upon investigation, the contact discovered that there was no recall for the subframe corrosion. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
Subaru Baja 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-20
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-20
- VIN: 4S4BT62C557
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2005 SUBARU BAJA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED THE RECALL NOTICES RECEIVED WERE FRAUDULENT.
Subaru Baja 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-02
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-02
- VIN: 4s4bt61cx37
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Subaru water pump pulley center hole was improperly machined
Subaru Baja 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-02
- VIN: 4S4BT61C437
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Subaru Baja. The contact stated that while attempting to park the vehicle, the vehicle would move forward inadvertently until the contact applied the parking brake. The dealer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that the VIN was not associated with any recalls. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 02V282000 (Power Train). The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.
Subaru Baja 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-17
- VIN: 4S4BT62C637
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE CAR HAS BEEN USING OIL A LOT AND IT'S NOT LEAKING OUT AND IT SMELLS LIKE BURNT OIL AND SMOKES
Subaru Baja 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-20
- Date Complaint: 2020-05-21
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 SUBARU BAJA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON TAKING HIS VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR AN OIL CHANGE, THE MECHANIC DISCOVERED THAT BRAKE FLUID WAS LEAKING FROM THE BRAKE LINE. DUE TO THE BRAKE FLUID LEAK, CORROSION DEVELOPED AROUND THE BRAKE LINE. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 121,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Subaru Baja 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-24
- Date Complaint: 2020-05-19
- VIN: 4S4BT62C166
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAD MY HEADLIGHT REPAIRED AT THE DEALERSHIP ON 3/18/20. WHILE THERE THEY DID A COMPLIMENTARY SAFETY INSPECTION OF THE VEHICLE AND IT PASSED WITH FLYING COLORS. I DROVE THE CAR HOME AND PARKED IT IN THE CARPORT. I NOTICED A FEW DAYS LATER THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR TIRE WAS TIPPED IN ON THE TOP. I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC WHO INFORMED ME THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS TOTALLY RUSTED OUT AND CAUSED THE TIRE TO BE RUBBING AGAINST THE INSIDE OF THE WHEEL WELL, WHICH RUINED A BRAND NEW TIRE. I NOW HAVE TO HAVE THE WHOLE SUBFRAME REPLACED IN ORDER TO BE ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AS THE SUBFRAME TOTALLY RUSTED OUT. THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO A FRIEND OF MINE WHO HAD A 2003 BAJA. SHE ENDED UP JUNKING THE VEHICLE. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED A QUOTE FROM THE MECHANIC YET ON THE REPAIRS. *TR
Subaru Baja 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-20
- Date Complaint: 2020-03-11
- VIN: 454BT63C465
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: IF THE GAS CAP IS NOT SECURELY TIGHTEN AND I MEAN TIGHTEN HARD. THE CAR WILL STOP OPERATING WITHIN 5 SEC ISH. THIS IS NOT GOOD, NO MATTER WHERE U ARE DRIVING. NOT ENUFF TIME TO PULL OVER SAFELY. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ME AT LEAST 4-5 TIMES NOW.
Subaru Baja 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2019-10-24
- VIN: 4S4BT62C166
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I HAD THE HEAD GASKETS AND TIMING BELT REPLACED AT 142,000 MILES. BRAND NEW. I PUT OIL IN MY CAR EVERY TIME I FILLED UP WITH GAS, AS I WAS TOLD SUBARUS BURN A LOT OF OIL. THE LOW LIGHT NEVER CAME ON, NEVER HAD A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COME ON. THREE MONTHS LATER, AT 145,000, WITHOUT ANY INDICATION THAT SOMETHING IS WRONG, GOING 70 ON THE FREEWAY, IN 5TH GEAR, I HEAR A "POP" SOUND AND MY CAR STARTS TO LOSE POWER, SMOKE IS COMING FROM THE ENGINE. I GET PULLED OVER, SAFELY THANK GOODNESS, AND CAR DIES. NO LONGER WILL TURN ON. SMOKE IS POURING FROM THE ENGINE. I AM TOWED TO THE MECHANICS WHERE THEY TELL ME THEY "THINK" A ROD BEARING THROUGH A ROD THROUGH THE ENGINE. NOT SURE IS THIS COULD BE CAUSED BY THE RECALL, BUT SOMETHING DID. I'M QUITE FRUSTRATED AT THIS CAR, NOT TO MENTION, THE COST. SO. I AM CHECKING. THANK YOU.
Subaru Baja 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2019-04-17
- VIN: 4S4BT63C255
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 SUBARU BAJA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD WHEN IT WAS DEPRESSED AND THE BRAKE ALARM INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GERALD JONES SUBARU (706-760-4102, LOCATED AT 4022 WASHINGTON RD, AUGUSTA, GA 30907) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL FOR THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 240,000.
Subaru Baja 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-25
- Date Complaint: 2019-03-25
- VIN: 4S4BT61C736
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL -- FAILURE TO COMPLY
Subaru Baja 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-10
- Date Complaint: 2019-02-21
- VIN: 4S4BT62C437
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SUBARU BAJA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V361000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT CALLED MID HUDSON SUBARU AT 845-296-1152 (LOCATED AT 1715 U.S. 9, WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY 12590) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CALLED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Latest 5 recalls Subaru Baja
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 41 recalls for different components of the Subaru Baja.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Subaru Baja 2003
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-02
- 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.
- Model: Subaru Baja 2005
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-02
- 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.
- Model: Subaru Baja 2005
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-02
- 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.
- Model: Subaru Baja 2006
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-02
- 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.
- Model: Subaru Baja 2005
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-02
- 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.
Latest negative Subaru Baja car reviews
Latest positive Subaru Baja car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2004
If you're someone who occasionally needs to transport large objects (but doesn't require a pickup truck), doesn't prioritize speed (if you do, consider the Forester or WRX), lives at higher altitudes (above 8,000 ft) and still wants a responsive engine, isn't overly concerned about gas mileage (around 22 mpg), likes the appearance (or can at least tolerate it), and if your bike is worth more than $1500 and you're always nervous when it's on a roof rack, then this car is a great alternative for regular, light DIY Home Depot kind of tasks.
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Vehicle year: 2006
I absolutely love the Baja! From the moment I saw the first ad, I knew I had to have one. After test driving the first models at our Subaru dealership, I was completely sold. The Baja handles beautifully, has a sporty design, and gets amazing gas mileage. It's the perfect combination of a sedan and a truck, which is exactly what I need for my lifestyle. When my old Ford Focus started giving me problems, I didn't hesitate to trade it in for my very own Subaru Baja. And I'm so glad I did! This vehicle is versatile, impressive, and incredibly well-built for its time.
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Vehicle year: 2003
Looking for a vehicle that can handle four adults and has a pickup function? We've got just the thing! Our little guy is the perfect fit for you. While there aren't many choices in this category, you won't be disappointed with our vehicle. The Avalanche may be too big, expensive, and a gas hog, while the Explorer Sport Trac may not be the most attractive option and is quite thirsty. Our vehicle comes loaded with standard equipment such as power windows, locks, cruise, tilt, air, CD, sunroof, and more. If you prefer cloth seats for long trips, you'll love our vehicle. Make sure to keep an eye out for one with monotone paint - they're out there! How can we help you today?
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Vehicle year: 2004
The vehicle is great in snow. I just drove 70 miles in pouring rain and it hugged the road at 65-75mph without ever hydroplaning. It has great fuel economy, achieving 26mpg in city/highway driving. Four people can ride in comfort and there is plenty of room to store packages outside under the covers. The quality is excellent and I would definitely buy another one.
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Vehicle year: 2004
I'm so glad to hear that you love it! It's great to know that you don't need a ladder or parachute to get in or out of it, and that it can carry a lot. It's also good to know that two 7' xmas trees fit in easily. I understand that you would like heated seats for the really cold days. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
Are you having problems with your Subaru Baja?
Isaias Ernser 2025-08-12
Vehicle year: 2003
The car has done 90k miles with a manual transmission. It's a shame that the engine reliability doesn't match the smooth ride. I have noticed that it consumes 1 quart of oil per 1k miles driven since I got it at 60k. Subaru has assured me that this is normal and nothing to worry about, just top it up every third gas fill up. Unfortunately, both head gaskets have blown, and the battery and water thermostat have also failed. To fix all these issues, I need a new battery, head gaskets, thermostat, and either new piston rings or a short block replacement, which will cost $5500 at the dealer (about equal to the trade-in value). This means I have to say goodbye to the car or rebuild it myself. It's heartbreaking to try and find a non-Subaru manual AWD replacement.
Bradley Boehm 2025-07-29
Vehicle year: 2005
Despite my mixed feelings about my Suby, I am confident in its reliability. Although I have had a few problems, I was surprised to find myself replacing the turbo at 71K, which cost me $1800. However, I have been diligent in providing regular maintenance to my car. While I have owned Jeeps and Durangos in the past, I chose this foreign car for its dependability and longevity, with the intention of driving it for 200K. I am confident that my Suby will continue to perform well in the future.
Granville King 2025-07-22
Vehicle year: 2003
After only 2k miles, my third Subaru Baja auto developed an atrocious piston slap. Despite being serviced twice, the loud engine tapping noise persists during the first 7 minutes of driving. The timing belt tensioner was replaced during the first visit and adjusted during the second, but neither repair was effective. Another Subaru dealer mechanic has confirmed that the engine is not normal and requires further investigation. However, after driving the vehicle, Area Rep Ed Luksic (Georgia Alabama) has stated that this is a normal condition and not a problem. He even mentioned that his own Baja experiences the same issue and should last around 130k miles. The area rep would only be concerned if I could prove that only one cylinder is causing the problem, otherwise, there is no issue.
Moshe Marvin 2025-06-01
Vehicle year: 2006
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Baja and its gas mileage. At first, I was really excited because it was getting almost 30 mpg on the highway, which was great for saving money on gas. However, after taking it to the dealer for its first oil change, I noticed a significant drop in mileage, getting only 17 mpg in town and 20 mpg on the highway. I took it back to the dealer, but unfortunately, they couldn't find any issues. Despite this setback, I still think the Baja is a great concept vehicle, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. In the end, I decided to trade it in for a new Chevy truck, which I'm really happy with. Thanks for listening to my story!
Cyrus Farrell 2025-05-25
Vehicle year: 2005
Hey there! So, I've had a bit of trouble with my car. The transmission went out at 3,000 miles and the carpet had to be replaced due to a poorly designed mat-holder. Unfortunately, the trim is also crooked and the mileage isn't great. I've found that the warranty offered by the company isn't quite comparable with other manufacturers. I even suggested a friend buy a Subaru and her experience was similar to mine...not too great! It feels like we've spent a lot of time at the repair shop, but hopefully things will improve soon.