2003 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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Common 2003 Subaru Baja problems
The Subaru Baja, produced from 2003 to 2006, has garnered a reputation for specific issues that have been reported by owners. These problems include engine issues, cooling system problems, and head gasket failures.
Engine Issues:
The 2003 Subaru Baja has been reported to have engine problems, although the specific issues are not detailed in the search results.
Cooling System Problems:
Cooling system problems in the Subaru Baja can lead to head gasket failures. These issues are common in the Baja, with one owner reporting the need to replace the head gaskets, heads, timing belt, water pump, thermostat, and radiator fluid, among other parts.
Head Gasket Failures:
Head gasket failures are a well-known issue in the Subaru Baja, particularly in the 2003 model year. The gaskets were prone to leaking around 100,000 miles, and replacement was necessary to prevent more severe problems.
In summary, the Subaru Baja, particularly the 2003 model year, has been reported to have engine issues, cooling system problems, and head gasket failures. These problems can be costly to repair and may affect the reliability and longevity of the vehicle. Prospective buyers should be aware of these issues and consider the vehicle's maintenance history and repair costs before making a purchase.
What problems did the Subaru Baja have?
Worst Issues
- engine feels rough at idle in the 2005 Baja. ...
- clutch pedal very hard to press in the 2005 Baja. ...
- stalls/loosing steering & brakes in the 2004 Baja. ...
- loss of power while driving in the 2006 Baja. ...
- radio doesn't work in the 2003 Baja.
How many 2003 Subaru Baja were made?
Initially, the company had planned to build 24,000 units a year at its Lafayette, Indiana assembly plant. However, only 30,000 were sold over a four-year stretch. In Canada, annual sales never topped 100 units. There were many reasons for the Baja's failure.
Are Subaru Bajas rare?
The Subaru Baja turbo was sold in the US for just four short model years from 2003 to 2006, making it a rare luxury to find. This ute-like vehicle perfectly combined the utility of a truck with the handling and passenger capacity of a car.
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.
What problems did the Subaru Baja have?
Worst Issues
- engine feels rough at idle in the 2005 Baja. ...
- clutch pedal very hard to press in the 2005 Baja. ...
- stalls/loosing steering & brakes in the 2004 Baja. ...
- loss of power while driving in the 2006 Baja. ...
- radio doesn't work in the 2003 Baja.
How many 2003 Subaru Baja were made?
Initially, the company had planned to build 24,000 units a year at its Lafayette, Indiana assembly plant. However, only 30,000 were sold over a four-year stretch. In Canada, annual sales never topped 100 units. There were many reasons for the Baja's failure.
Why did Subaru stop making the 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.
What transmission does a 2003 Subaru Baja have?
| Subaru Baja | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5 L EJ251 H4 (2003–2005) 2.5 L EJ253 H4 (2005–2006) 2.5 L EJ255 H4 turbo |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,649 mm (104.3 in) |
2003 Subaru Baja car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Baja problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Subaru Baja vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Subaru Baja
The NHTSA has received 38 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Subaru Baja. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Subaru Baja vehicles.
2024-06-05
STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-08
- 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
2022-07-05
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-01
- 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.
2022-02-02
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-02
- VIN: 4s4bt61cx37
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Subaru water pump pulley center hole was improperly machined
2021-09-02
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-28
- 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.
2021-03-17
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-01
- 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
2019-03-25
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-25
- VIN: 4S4BT61C736
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL -- FAILURE TO COMPLY
2019-02-21
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-10
- 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.
2018-11-15
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-10
- VIN: 4S4BT61C437
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SUBARU BAJA. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY OR WHEN DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT NOTICED A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL COMING THROUGH THE VENTS. THERE WAS NO WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE ODOR WAS ONLY NOTICED DURING COLD WEATHER. THE CONTACT CALLED MIKE SHAW SUBARU AT (303) 438-7500 (LOCATED AT 1650 W 104TH AVE, DENVER, CO 80234) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 107,000.
2018-10-09
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-09
- VIN: 454BT62C537
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE CAR ACCELARATED FOR NO REASON, I WAS DRIVING ABOUT 40 MILES PER HOUR ON A CITY STREET
2018-07-23
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-23
- VIN: 4S4BT62CX37
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: REAR BRAKE LINE HAS CORRODED AT THE 4 WAY CONNECTOR AND FAILED, SIMILAR TO OTHER MODELS AND YEARS THAT HAVE BEEN RECALLED. VEHICLE IS REGISTERED AND OPERATED IN RHODE ISLAND
2018-07-16
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-24
- VIN: 4S4BT62C637
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SUBARU BAJA. WHILE PARKING THE VEHICLE, IT INADVERTENTLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER (BUSAM SUBARU, 6195 DIXIE HWY, FAIRFIELD, OH 45014), BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEY WOULD RESEARCH THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 79,000.
2017-03-15
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-01
- VIN: S4BT62C0361
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL- I AM STILL WAITING TO RECIEVE THE INFORMATION TO GET THIS ISSUE FIXED. THIS VEHICLE IS DRIVEN EVERYDAY~ WHEN WILL MY VEHICLE BE FIXED. THEY HAVE KNOWN ABOUT THIS ISSUE FOR YEARS.
2016-12-08
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-08
- VIN: 4S4BT62C736
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: EVERY TIME I DRIVE MY 2003 BAJA IN COLD WEATHER IT SMELLS LIKE RAW FUEL. IT MAKES ME FEEL LIGHT HEADED AND DIZZY. THE SELL COMES IN THRU THE VENTS AND FILLS THE CAB WITH FUMES. THE FUEL LEAKS OUT ONTO THE TOP OF THE ENGINE BLOCK FROM THE FUEL LINE CREATING A POSSIBLE FIRE HAZARD. WE'VE SEEN SIMILAR ISSUES OF FUEL LEAKING FROM FUEL LINES UNDER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD DURING COLD CONDITIONS ON NUMEROUS OTHER SUBARU MODELS INCLUDING THE OUTBACK AND FORESTER. SUBARU RECALL NO. WVK-21 FOR 2002-2003 SUBARU WRX MODELS RESOLVES A FUEL LEAK FROM THE FUEL LINE UNDER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD DURING COLD WEATHER CONDITION. WHY WASN'T ALL SUBARU MODELS INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL? IT SEEMS A LOT OF SUBARU OWNERS ARE HAVING THIS PROBLEM. HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MAKESUBARUOFAMERICAFIXTHEIRFUELLEAKS/ PLEASE FIX THIS SOON. *TR
2016-12-05
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-01
- VIN: 4S4BT62C436
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAMARA RECALL. RECEIVED LETTER OF RECALL IN JULY, 2016. BOLDLY TOLD NOT TO ALLOW PASSENGERS IN FRONT SEAT WHILE SUBARU SAYS PARTS ARE UNAVAILABLE? HAVE USED WEBSITE, NO UPDATE. CALLED AND WAITED AND WAITED, RECORDING REPEATEDLY SAYS GO TO WEBSITE. WEBSITE SAYS CALL CUSTOMER SUPPORT FOR MORE INFO. I THOUGHT SUBARU CARED ABOUT SAFETY?? THEY SHOULD TAKE ACTION HERE AND REPLACE AIRBAGS, OR AT LEAST UPDATE THEIR CUSTOMERS.
2016-11-05
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-01
- VIN: 4S4BT62C737
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: "TAKATA RECALL" ON FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG - I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE IN JULY STATING NOT TO LET ANYONE SIT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT OF MY VEHICLE UNTIL THERE IS A REPLACEMENT PART TO FIX THE ISSUE. IT IS NOW 4 MONTHS LATER AND STILL NO FIX. ARE YOU KIDDING ME? I HAVE KIDS/FAMILY AND NEED EVERY SEAT I HAVE NOT TO MENTION I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE CAR NOW. I'M HIGHLY DISAPPOINTED THAT THERE IS NO SENSE OF URGENCY IN GETTING THIS PROBLEM FIXED. I STILL HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY FOLLOW UP AND DON'T EXPECT TO ANY TIME SOON.
2015-01-13
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-01
- VIN: 4S4BT62C937
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SUBARU BAJA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE MAKING A TURN, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V399000 (AIR BAGS). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 69,500.
2014-04-16
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-18
- VIN: 4S4BT62C836
- Components: POWER TRAIN,WHEELS
- Summary: STARTING DEC 2004 PROBLEMS KEEPING ALIGNMENTS/TIRES (MILEAGE 28,176), ENDING IN MAY 2013 WITH COMPLETE REAR WHEEL CRADLE & DRIVE TRAIN REPLACEMENT (MILEAGE 182,837) AFTER THE DRIVE LINE DROPPED OUT ON TO A BRACE AT APPROX 35 MPH AFTER REPEATED REPAIRS AND COMPLAINTS ABOUT DRIVE-FEEL OF VEHICLE. HAD JUST EXITED 70 MPH FREEWAY AND WAS ON A SECONDARY ROAD. WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF THE 'VOLUNTARY' RECALL BY SUBARU FOR THE REAR CRADLE ISSUED APR 2003, BEFORE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED. *TT
2012-01-26
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4S4BT62C936
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SUBARU BAJA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TURNING AT 2 MPH, A NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. THE VEHICLE WAS MANEUVERED TO THE SHOULDER AND THE CONTACT SMELLED A BURNING ODOR. UPON EXAMINING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE WAS RUBBING ONTO THE WHEEL WELL AND MELTING. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE REAR SUSPENSION RUSTED AWAY FROM THE SUB FRAME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 141,000.
2010-05-19
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-19
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SUBARU ROTORS, WE HAVE IN OUR FAMILY 6 SUBARUS, 2-2003 BAJAS ,I - 2005 FORESTER, 1-2005 LEGACY, 1-2007 IMPREZA, ALSO SOLD ONE 2004 FORESTER. OUR BAJAS HAVE 48,000 MILES ONE EACH VEHICLE AND WE HAVE HAD OUR ROTORS REPLACED, CUT, AND REPLACED AGAIN. EACH TIME WE TAKE THEM IN FOR INSPECTIONS WE ARE TOLD THE ROTORS NEED TO BE CUT DUE TO THEM WARPING. THE CARS WILL SHAKE AND PULL TO ONE SIDE AND WE KNOW THIS AS IT HAS GONE ON FOR YEARS. THEY ARE CUT THEN CANNOT BE CUT ANYMORE THEN HAVE TO BE REPLACED . THE 2004 FORESTER HAD THE SAME PROBLEM, AS DID THE 2005 FORESTER IN WHICH MY SON ENDED UP BUYING AND AFTER MARKET ROTOR INSTEAD OF LETTING SUBARU CONTINUE TO CUT THEM EVERY 6 MONTHS. THE AFTER MARKET ROTORS WORK FINE. THE 2005 LEGACY SAME ROTOR PROBLEM, MY DAUGHTER THIS PAST WEEKEND AFTER GETTING TIRED OF THE PROBLEM PUT ON AFTER MARKET ROTORS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM. MY SONS 2003 BAJA HAS THE ROTORS WARP EVERY 6 MONTHS AND ENDS UP HAVING THEM CUT TO RESTORE THE STEERING AND BRAKING SAFETY. MY 2003 BAJA HAS HAD THE ROTORS REPLACED TWICE AND CUT 4 TIMES , AND MY CAR IS ONLY DRIVEN 3000 MILES A YEAR. I WAS TOLD THAT JUST HAVING MY CAR SIT AND NOT USED WILL CAUSE THE ROTORS TO WARP AND CAUSED BRAKING AND STEERING CONCERNS. I HAVE BROUGHT MY CONCERNS TO THE DEALERSHIP AND SUBARU OF AMERICA AND WAS TOLD TO HAVE THE DEALERSHIP INSPECT THEM AND THE DEALERSHIP ALWAYS TELLS US TO HAVE THE ROTORS CUT AND ALWAYS AT OUR OWN EXPENSE. WITH ALL THE SUBARUS WE OWNED AND HAVE OWNED. IT SEEMS THAT THE ONES MADE IN THE 2003 TO 2004'S , AND 2005 MODELS HAVE ALL HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. WE ARE LEFT WITH THE CHOICE OF HAVING OUR ROTORS CUT TO SOLVE THE BREAKING PROBLEM, THEN AFTER 2 CUTTINGS THEY BECOME TOO THIN AND THEN HAVE TO BE REPLACED. I BELIEVE SUBARU KNOWS OF THIS AND HAS JUST HIDDEN THE TRUTH FROM ITS OWNERS. WITH ALL OUR SUBARUS HAVING THE SAME PROBLEMS THIS IS NOT AN ISOLATED INCIDENT.. I CHECKED THE PROPERTY DAMAGE CIRCLE ON THE FORM SINCE THE ROTORS ARE PROPERTY DAMAGE. ALL YEARS LISTED. *TR
2010-04-19
STEERING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-01
- VIN: 4S4BT61C736
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: STEERING BECAME VERY DIFFICULT, WITH LOUD BANGING/POPPING NOISES WHILE TURNING STEERING WHEEL...WORSENED AS VEHICLE WARMED UP...WOULD FEEL AS THOUGH STEERING WHEEL WAS BEING JERKED OUT OF MY HANDS. VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BY REPLACING VISCOUS CLUTCH IN CENTER DIFFERENTIAL (AT TRANSMISSION)...WAS TOLD THAT MANY SIMILAR CASES ARE APPEARING ON THESE VEHICLES...DO NOT KNOW WHETHER OLD PART IS AVAILABLE. *TR
2010-03-05
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4S4BT61C036
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SUBARU BAJA. THE CONTACT STATED AFTER CHANGING A FLAT TIRE WITH THE SPARE TIRE THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE STARTED SMOKING. THE SMOKE WAS CAUSE BY THE SPARE TIRE DUE TO THE DIFFERENT TREAD AND SIZE CAUSED THE DIFFERENTIAL TO MALFUNCTION. THE CONTACT DROVE THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL MECHANIC AND THE LOCAL MECHANIC NOTICE THE ENTIRE REAR END HAD BLOWN. THE CONTACT TOWED THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER BECAUSE THE MANUFACTURER OFFERED TO PAY FOR THE REPAIRS. THE CONTACT STATED THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE THE SPARE TIRE COULD HAVE CAUSED A HUGH FIRE TO THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
2008-04-07
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-01
- VIN: 3GNFK16Z73G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE SPEEDOMETER DOESN'T WORK. *TR
2007-04-09
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-28
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S4BT61C737
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I WAS APPROACHING A STOP LIGHT LAST APRIL 28, 200) AND WENT TO APPLY MY BRAKES, ONLY TO FIND THAT THEY WEREN'T GOING TO WORK. I WAS ONLY GOING ABOUT 20 MPH AND GRAVITY SLOWED ME DOWN TO BELOW 18 MPH BECAUSE AIR BAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY, ONLY TO BE STOPPED BY A CAR MAKING A LEFT HAND TURN ONTO A HIGHWAY VIA ROAD-RAMP. 3 PEOPLE WERE INJURED, AND MY DRIVING RECORD SEVERELY SCORCHED. NEEDLESS TO SAY, I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO FIX THE DEFECTIVE BRAKES TICKET. THERE WERE NO SUBARU DEALERS IN TOWN. THEY DID A VISUAL INSPECTION AND FOUND NOTHING TO BE THE MATTER. AS SOON AS I GOT BACK HOME, A WEEK LATER, I TOOK MY CAR INTO SUBARU, WHO RAN DIAGNOSTICS ON THE ABS ONLY TO CONCLUDE THAT I WAS A CRAZY PERSON. I DECIDED I RATHER NEEDED A SECOND, AND THIRD OPINION. NOW SUBARU HAD MY CAR FOR AT LEAST 3 HOURS, GAVE IT BACK, TOOK ME BEHIND THE STORE TO TEST THE BRAKES, AND THE 20 FEET ON GRAVEL IT TOOK TO STOP WAS NORMAL, NOT TO MENTION, I HAD I QUOTE STATING 100% FUNCTIONAL AND NEW BRAKES. SO MY MAIN MECHANIC TOOK THE TIRES OFF TO LOOK THE BRAKES ,AND SAID OH MY GOD YOU CAN'T DRIVE THIS CAR, THERE WERE NO BRAKES! NONE, IT WAS NOT MEASURABLE, THAT' WAS HOW LITTLE THERE WERE.. SO I GOT A THIRD OPINION, AGREEING WITH THE SECOND OF MY MECHANIC, I CONCEDED, AND GOT MY BRAKES CHANGED. I ASKED TO KEEP THE BRAKE PADS TO TAKE TO SUBARU TO SHOW THEM THEIR GRAVE ERROR. I GAVE THE PADS TO THEM, THEY SWORE UP AND DOWN TO GET TO THE BOTTOM OF IT, AND THAT WAS JULY 3, 2006, THIS IS APRIL 9, 2007. I THOUGHT ALL WAS WELL THAT ENDS WELL, BUT NOW THAT I KNEW OTHER PEOPLE HAVING SIMILAR PROBLEMS I DIDN'T WANT TO DIE JUST BECAUSE I LOVE MY CAR, AND I THOUGHT IT MIGHT BE TIME TO BUY OUT OF MY BAJA. *AK
2005-12-23
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-12
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S4BT61CX37
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING DOWN A WINDING MOUNTAIN ROAD THE VEHICLE LOST BRAKING POWER. SHE TRIED TO SLOW IT BY DOWN SHIFTING THE GEARS, AND THEN SHE USED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. THE VEHICLE STARTED SMOKING AND SHE DROVE INTO A DITCH. THE BRAKES HAD BEEN PREVIOUSLY REPLACED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. A POLICE REPORT TAKEN AT THE SCENE. THERE WAS BODY DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. THE INSURANCE ADJUSTER STATED THERE WERE NO PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKES. THE DEALERSHIP HAS NOT YET INSPECTED THE VEHICLE. *AK
2005-02-02
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-02
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: NOTICED PINGING NOISE FROM ENGINE. SUBARU REPLACED BLOCK. ABOUT A YEAR LATER, HAD PINGING NOISE AGAIN, AND CAR WAS STALLING AFTER COLD NIGHT, FIRST THING IN THE MORNING. SUBARU SAID THEY DIDN'T NOTICE ANY PROBLEM, BUT I HAVE A FEELING I'LL BE GETTING ANOTHER BLOCK IN A YEAR OR SO.*AK
2003 Subaru Baja recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the 2003 Subaru Baja.
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.
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.
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.
2016-05-25
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2006-2008 Impreza, Tribeca, 2006 Saab 9-2x, and 2003-2006 Baja vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in 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 may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 24, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-16. Note: This notice is only for vehicles that were not covered by 16V-358 for Zone A.
2016-05-25
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, and Baja vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in 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 may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 24, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-16. Note: This recall covers vehicles that were not previously covered in 16V-358 for Zone A or 16V-359 for Zone B.
2016-05-25
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in 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 may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
2015-05-28
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Subaru Baja vehicles manufactured January 22, 2003, to July 21, 2004, 2004-2005 Impreza vehicles manufactured January 28, 2003, to May 31, 2005, 2003-2008 Subaru Legacy vehicles manufactured January 22, 2003, to May 2, 2008, 2003-2008 Subaru Outback vehicles manufactured February 18, 2003, to May 5, 2008, and 2005 Saab 9-2x vehicles manufactured February 11, 2004, to March 17, 2005. The affected vehicles are equipped with a passenger side frontal air bag that may be susceptible to moisture intrusion which, over time, could cause the inflator to rupture upon its deployment.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners and General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The Subaru recall began on June 17, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. The Saab recall began on July 27, 2015. Owners of Saab vehicles may call 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is WQR-53. Note: The recall completely supersedes recall 14V-399 (WQL-48) and partially supersedes recall 14V-763 (WQP-51) in that model year 2004 through 2005 Subaru Impreza and model year 2005 Saab 9-2x vehicles are now only part of this campaign. Note: On December 18, 2015 Subaru informed NHTSA of an expansion of this recall to include certain model year 2003-2004 Subaru Baja, 2003-2008 Subaru Legacy and 2003-2008 Subaru Outback vehicles.
2014-12-01
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy and Outback vehicles, and 2003-2005 Baja vehicles sold, or ever registered, in geographic locations associated with high absolute humidity. Specifically, vehicles sold, or ever registered, in Puerto Rico, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, Saipan, American Samoa, Florida and adjacent counties in southern Georgia, as well as the coastal areas of Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. Upon deployment of the passenger side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passengers frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 15, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQP-51. Note: This recall supersedes recall 14V-471. This recall has been partially superseded by 15V-323. All 2005 model year Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles will now be repaired under recall 15V-323.
2002-10-30
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS WERE PRODUCED WITH AN IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED TRANSMISSION PARKING ROD. WHEN THE TRANSMISSION SELECTOR LEVER IS PLACED IN THE "P" (PARK) POSITION, THE TRANSMISSION PARK MECHANISM, THAT IS INTENDED TO HOLD YOUR VEHICLE, MAY NOT ENGAGE.
- Consequence: THE VEHICLE COULD THEN MOVE/ROLL WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PARKING ROD ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION JANUARY 8, 2003. AN INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BE SENT DURING NOVEMBER 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
2002-09-13
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4-CYLINDER ENGINES, THE WATER PUMP PULLEY CENTER HOLE WAS IMPROPERLY MACHINED.
- Consequence: IN SOME INSTANCES, THE INTERFERENCE FIT BETWEEN THE INNER WALL OF THE PULLEY CENTER HOLE AND THE WATER PUMP DRIVE SHAFT WAS NOT AS TIGHT AS SPECIFIED IN THE DRAWING SPECIFICATION. THIS COULD RESULT IN THE WATER PUMP PULLEY DISLODGING FROM THE WATER PUMP SHAFT, WHICH CAN CAUSE SEVERE ENGINE DAMAGE/SEIZURE DURING VEHICLE USAGE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WATER PUMP. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 12, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
Negative 2003 Subaru Baja car reviews
Positive 2003 Subaru Baja car reviews
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Your Baja sounds like a great vehicle! It's been very reliable for you and you've been able to put many miles on it in just the first year of owning it. It's also great to hear that it gets good gas mileage. It seems like the only thing you haven't been able to haul in it were sheets of 4x8 plywood. Overall, it sounds like the Baja is exactly what you were looking for - a truck with the feel of a car.
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The best multi-purpose vehicle out there! Your wife and kids will love the open bed. It's comfortable and truly a road-hugging machine. Plus, it's sporty and nimble!
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Despite being rear-ended by a large SUV, my Baja has proven to be a safe and reliable vehicle, with an average of 26-28 mph around town and 30-32 mph on the highway. Although it may be a total loss, I am grateful that the passenger cab remained intact and that I am unharmed. Having owned the Baja for nearly 90000 miles, I can confidently say that it has been the best car I have ever owned. If I have to get another vehicle, it will be difficult to find one that matches the Baja's level of quality and performance. I have no complaints about my Baja whatsoever.
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It's great on fuel and has plenty of pep to get you where you need to go. Although it's missing heated seats, it's easy for anyone to drive and get in and out of. Plus, you can store a ton in the cargo area!
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My Mom and Dad say it's the best riding truck. Everyone is surprised the first time they ride in it. It doesn't ride like a truck at all and the gas mileage is great. People are always asking what kind of vehicle it is. It's the perfect vehicle for someone like me who needs a truck sometimes and a car at other times.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Subaru Baja problems:
Subaru Baja Questions - Is it risky to buy a 2003 Subaru Baja with ...
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-t16940_ds536893
Jan 8, 2013 ... I have encountered the head gasket problem. I'm considering doing d.i.y I don't want to spend $2000 with the dealer on repair. If anyone is ...
Any problems with your Baja???? - Page 6 - scoobytruck.com
https://www.scoobytruck.com/bb/viewtopic.php?t=188&start=75
Mar 6, 2012 ... Yes many of the 03s are prone to blow a gasket. Subaru had problems with a lot of their head gaskets (not just the Baja) for a while in the late ...
2003 Subaru Baja Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
https://repairpal.com/cars/subaru/baja/2003
Most Common 2003 Subaru Baja Problems ... The head gasket has a high failure rate due to cooling system problems. subaru is aware of the problem and has... See ...
Thinking about getting a Baja...known/common issues ...
https://www.scoobytruck.com/bb/viewtopic.php?t=1424
Jan 23, 2010 ... Have also seen a 2004 and 2003 I've considered. Any input would be great! Have loved the subaruoutback.com forums...hoping to see more of the ...
Complaints? Parts issues? : r/SubaruBaja
https://www.reddit.com/r/SubaruBaja/comments/14sh8ab/complaints_parts_issues/
Jul 6, 2023 ... Look up common rust spots, and ... Yeah, mines a 2003. They actually didn't ... If you're on Facebook, check out the Subaru Baja Owners Club.
Other years of Subaru Baja
Are you having problems with your 2003 Subaru Baja?
Ryleigh Kertzmann 2024-10-02
Since the day I drove it off the lot, I've noticed some squeaks. Unfortunately, despite taking it to the dealer four times, the issue hasn't been resolved. Additionally, I've found the driver's area to be a bit cramped.