2003 Subaru Baja
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › Subaru › Baja › 2003
These records cover every 2003 Subaru Baja. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
10 recalls name the 2003 Subaru Baja. Newest first.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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…
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
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.
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
On certain sport utility and passenger vehicles equipped with 4-cylinder engines, the water pump pulley center hole was improperly machined.
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
Owner complaints
38 complaints5 involved a crash3 involved a fire7 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system
My cars abs light came on and the speedometer, rpm gauge, and electrical system started failing while driving. I immediately pulled over. The car caught fire around the alternator. The fire was minor, as I found the damage after towing the car home. If it had been worse, I could’ve been injured…
My cars abs light came on and the speedometer, rpm gauge, and electrical system started failing while driving. I immediately pulled over. The car caught fire around the alternator. The fire was minor, as I found the damage after towing the car home. If it had been worse, I could’ve been injured and burned. When I went to fix the car, we found that the wires were taped together with electrical tape and the other end had a form of glue on it. After we bought the car, the dealership kept calling checking on the vehicle, making me believe it was a known issue by them. This issue will cost me to fix the wiring, but I am unsure how much yet.
- Suspension
Vehicle purchased in NC in April, 2025. Registered the vehicle in VA (where I live) a week later once I received the NC title. On [XXX], I took the vehicle to get it inspected. It failed the Virginia State Safety Inspection for the suspension - rust on the rear subframe near right rear wheel…
Vehicle purchased in NC in April, 2025. Registered the vehicle in VA (where I live) a week later once I received the NC title. On [XXX], I took the vehicle to get it inspected. It failed the Virginia State Safety Inspection for the suspension - rust on the rear subframe near right rear wheel well. I found the following information online with regards to this issue: These recalls were issued for the 2003-2006 Subaru Baja , specifically those in the "salt-belt" states for "poor paint quality on the subframe components which led to rusting and potential for subframe failure." The recall numbers that I was able to locate online are O3V-153 and WWM-96. I have already reached out to the Customer Advocacy Department of Subaru of America and they are unable to help me because this particular VIN was not tied to this recall. I am unable to get this vehicle inspected because it does not pass due to this issue. This was a KNOWN issue for this year make and model vehicle in the states in which this vehicle has been titled over the last 20+ years. Because of the issue that was found during my state inspection combined with the fact that this vehicle has been titled in "salt-belt" states, I feel that it should been included in with this recall and as such, repaired by Subaru of America. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Service brakes · Steering · Suspension
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…
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
- Structure › Frame and members
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…
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.
- Engine
Subaru water pump pulley center hole was improperly machined
- Power train
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…
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.
- Engine
The car has been using oil a lot and it's not leaking out and it smells like burnt oil and smokes
- Air bags
Takata recall -- failure to comply
- Air bags
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.
- Fuel/propulsion system
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…
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.
- Vehicle speed control
The car accelarated for no reason, I was driving about 40 miles per hour on a city street
- Service brakes
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
- Vehicle speed control
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.
- Air bags
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.
- Fuel/propulsion system · Fuel system, gasoline
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…
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
- Air bags
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…
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.
- Air bags
"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…
"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.
- Steering
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.
- Power train · Wheels
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…
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
- Suspension
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…
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.
- Unknown or other
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…
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
- Power train › Driveline · Power train › Manual transmission · Steering
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
- Power train › Driveline › Differential unit
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…
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.
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
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…
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
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
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…
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
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field failures was found in vehicles produced by these five additional manufacturers.Nonetheless, at ODI's insistence, all 10 vehicle manufacturers initiated a regional recall within approximately two weeks of the opening of the investigation.The regions recalled initially included Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, areas with high absolute humidity and climatic conditions believed to be a significant factor in the inflator ruptures.As part of the recall actions, inflators removed from remedied vehicles are to be returned to Takata for testing.Takata's initial test results on passenger inflators from remedied vehicles indicated a much higher than anticipated rupture frequency for inflators returned from Florida.Accordingly ODI requested all 10 manufacturers expand the regional recalls for passenger inflators to include other geographic areas where high absolute humidity conditions exist, including the Gulf States and other coastal areas.Takata's testing of the passenger inflators to date continues to indicate this geographic area as having the highest risk, with no ruptures occurring from inflators returned from outside the expanded recall regions.During PE14-016 four additional passenger inflator field events occurred, all in vehicles from the same expanded geographic region.Also during PE14-016 four additional driver inflator field events occurred including two in vehicles from regions not known for high absolute humidity, specifically California and North Carolina.Accordingly, ODI requested all five of the affected vehicle manufacturers currently using the subject Takata driver inflators expand to nationwide recalls.Significantly, neither of the affected vehicle manufacturers or Takata provided any explanation to account for these two driver air bag inflator ruptures outside the area of high absolute humidity.Takata testing of returned driver inflators indicates a lower rupture frequency as compared to passenger inflator testing.All test ruptures reported by Takata to date have occurred on inflators returned from high absolute humidity areas.The investigation now includes all manufacturers and vehicles known to be affected at this time.ODI's investigation will focus on, among other things, root cause analysis, other potential defect consequences, identification of affected vehicles scope, and adequacy of the remedy.The five ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10537899, 10568848, 10585224, 10605877, 10651492
- Air Bag Inflator Rupture
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE14-016 in June 2014 based on six inflator rupture incidents involving consumer owned vehicles produced by five vehicle manufacturers.All six vehicles were operated in Florida or Puerto Rico at the time of the rupture and for the majority of their service life, and were equipped with inflators produced by Takata, a tier-one supplier of automotive air bag systems.During the course of PE14-016, ODI determined that five additional vehicle manufacturers used inflators of a similar design and vintage also supplied by Takata. No evidence of field failures was found in vehicles produced by these five additional manufacturers.Nonetheless, at ODI's insistence, all 10 vehicle manufacturers initiated a regional recall within approximately two weeks of the opening of the investigation.The regions recalled initially included Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, areas with consistently high absolute humidity and climatic conditions believed to be a significant factor in the inflator ruptures.As part of the recall actions, inflators removed from remedied vehicles are to be returned to Takata for testing.Takata's initial test results on passenger inflators from remedied vehicles indicated a much higher than anticipated rupture frequency for inflators returned from Florida.Accordingly, ODI requested all 10 manufacturers expand the regional recalls for passenger inflators to include other geographic areas where high absolute humidity conditions exist, including the Gulf States and other coastal areas.Takata's testing of the passenger inflators to date continues to indicate this geographic area as having the highest risk, with no ruptures occurring from inflators returned from outside the expanded recall regions.During PE14-016, four additional passenger inflator field events occurred, all in vehicles from the same expanded geographic region.Also during PE14-016, four additional driver inflator field events occurred including two in vehicles from regions not known for high absolute humidity, specifically California and North Carolina.Accordingly, ODI requested all five of the affected vehicle manufacturers currently using the subject Takata driver inflators expand to nationwide recalls.Significantly, neither of the affected vehicle manufacturers or Takata provided any explanation to account for these two driver air bag inflator ruptures outside the area of high absolute humidity.Takata testing of returned driver inflators indicates a lower rupture frequency as compared to passenger inflator testing.All test ruptures reported by Takata to date have occurred on inflators returned from high absolute humidity areas.The PE is now closed/upgraded to an Engineering Evaluation (EA15-001) to include all manufacturersand vehicles known to be affected at this time.ODI's EA investigation will focus on, among other things, root cause analysis, other potential defect consequences, identification of affected vehicles scope, and adequacy of the remedy.The recalls related to this PE are: 14V343, 14V344, 14V348, 14V351, 14V353, 14V655, 14V700, 14V701, 14V752, 14V763, 14V770, 14V773, 14V787, 14V802 and 14V817.The number of vehicles affected are an estimate since some vehicles may have both the driver and passenger side inflators recalled. The five ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10537899, 10568848, 10585224, 10605877, 10651492
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010925This annocement is to inform dealers to the Gen 3.1 Head Unit OTA will be available via Wi-Fi. The update will take place in multiple batches with the first beginneing November 15th and the last being Decemeber 3rd. This update is for approximatelt 714,000 VINs.
- 11009701This bulletin details an important regulation issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which impacts the way some vehicles with accessories are sold. This regulation applies to any automobile retailer installing accessories on a vehicle prior to its first sale.
- 11009685This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008283This Service Information Bulletin announces the preferred practices to be used when handling vehicles equipped with Gen2 Telematics which are enrolled in the Subaru STARLINK Security Plus Service featuring Stolen Vehicle Recovery Plus with Immobilizer.
- 11008282This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008281This Service Information Bulletin announces the diagnostic procedures to be followed when diagnosing engine oil leakage on FA and FB type engines.
- 11008280This Service Information bulletin is being released as guidance for proper testing and charging of vehicle batteries.
- 11008279This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
- 11008276The CP1.5 RCs OTA is available for all mid and high grade CP1.5 head units.
- 11008267This bulletin announces availability of the NEW genuine Subaru engine oil filter.
- 11008259This bulletin outlines the judgment criteria to be used when inspecting front transverse link bushings to reduce unnecessary bushing replacement.
- 11006935This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure for 2025MY vehicles.
- 11006934The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 11006932This Service Information Bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when the Data Communication Module (DCM) is being tested as a dark current/standby current source.
- 11006931This Bulletin provides additional diagnostics to follow when addressing a Telematics-related DTC B2A16.
- 11005624This annoucement provides parts personnel information about remanufactured transmissions that will no longer be available.
- 11005615This announcement provides information for retailers to install the latest infotainment system software for Denso CP 1.5.
- 11005614This bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when testing the Data Communication Module (DCM) as a dark current/standby current source. All models equipped with Telematics except Solterra.
- 11005609This announcement provides information on Takata Recall Escalated Towing Program.
- 11005608This thermo control valve video contains information on the replacement of thermo control valve.
- 11005599This Bulletin provides SOA paint codes to help eliminate possible confusion for 2025 MY vehicles.
- 11005595This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11005593This Bulletin provides guidance for diagnosing a leaking front or rear suspension strut.
- 11002730This information announces reprograming file availability for Gen 4.5 Denso CP1.5 Audio and Navigation systems. Inprovement for CarPlay concerns with hands-free calls when the receiving party is not able to hear the caller.
- 11002725This bulletin provides diagnosis and procedure information to be applied when diagnosing potential fluid leaks on front and rear brake calipers. This information has been developed to reduce unnecessary brake caliper replacement.
- 10248223SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2003-2014 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2003-2006 model year Baja vehicles, 2009-2013 model year Forester vehicles, 2004-2011 model year Impreza vehicles, and 2004- 2014 WRX (including STI) vehicles equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger-side frontal air bag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (PSAN).
- 10244915SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2003-2014 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2003-2006 model year Baja vehicles, 2009-2013 model year Forester vehicles, 2004-2011 model year Impreza vehicles, and 2004- 2014 WRX (including STI) vehicles equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger-side frontal air bag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (PSAN).
- 10241801The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 10237234Takata Front Passenger Airbag Module / Inflator Like for Like Recall
- 10235890WQM?49 Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Recall (NHTSA ID 14V?471)
- 10235277Takata Front Passenger Airbag Module / Inflator Like for Like Recall
- 10234957Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10234956Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10234900Regional Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10234899Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10234898Update: WQL?48 Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Recall (NHTSA ID 14V?399)
- 10233149Takata Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Replacement
- 10233086Update: WQL?48 Front Passenger Air Bag Inflator Recall (NHTSA ID 14V?399) ? SECOND MAILING
- 10233065Updated Statement on Takata Airbags Posted
- 10232879Replacement Key and Immobilizer info
Every Subaru Baja model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.