Thing is, Baja is a tough sell over a standard Outback wagon. There's only seating available for 4, rather than 5. The rear cargo hold is only as big as that of the wagon- though it's open to the sun, wind, rain and possible theft. Of course, the Baja is downright cool when it comes to a machine intended specifically towards an active lifestyle- though it suffers somewhat as a machine for the average family. If you're part of a young, active, outdoorsy couple, you'll probably fall in love with the idea of a machine like the Baja.
Which leads to the second problem- availability. Sales were never impressive- largely for the compromise it presented. To many, the similarly-priced Outback just made more sense. The short lifespan and meek sales volumes mean that they aren't exactly common at used car lots.
If you decide on and find one, there are only a few common problems to watch out for. A rough idle could indicate an oil-flow problem on turbocharged engines, caused by a clogged screen in an oil connection. Additionally, automatic transmissions could have a leak at the transmission stud. This would present itself as a blood-red fluid apparent near the engine's oil filter.
It's a good idea to have a used Subaru jacked into the air at a dealership, while a mechanic inspects crucial parts for damage or abuse. Though these machines are largely known to be reliable, bullet-proof and long-lasting, any leaks, scrapes, dents or otherwise negative discoveries can be questioned and called into pricing negotiations.
Recall related items were fairly minor. Bolts around an oil-control valve cover may not have been tightened sufficiently at the factory, which could cause an oil leak. This could, in extreme cases, cause a fire.
A second recall dealt with the water-pump pulley. It could become detached from the water pump, which would stop the flow of coolant throughout the engine. If this happens to your Baja, it could cause overheating and engine failure or engine seizure in a very short period of time.
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| 2003 Subaru Baja |
Which leads to the second problem- availability. Sales were never impressive- largely for the compromise it presented. To many, the similarly-priced Outback just made more sense. The short lifespan and meek sales volumes mean that they aren't exactly common at used car lots.
If you decide on and find one, there are only a few common problems to watch out for. A rough idle could indicate an oil-flow problem on turbocharged engines, caused by a clogged screen in an oil connection. Additionally, automatic transmissions could have a leak at the transmission stud. This would present itself as a blood-red fluid apparent near the engine's oil filter.
It's a good idea to have a used Subaru jacked into the air at a dealership, while a mechanic inspects crucial parts for damage or abuse. Though these machines are largely known to be reliable, bullet-proof and long-lasting, any leaks, scrapes, dents or otherwise negative discoveries can be questioned and called into pricing negotiations.
Recall related items were fairly minor. Bolts around an oil-control valve cover may not have been tightened sufficiently at the factory, which could cause an oil leak. This could, in extreme cases, cause a fire.
A second recall dealt with the water-pump pulley. It could become detached from the water pump, which would stop the flow of coolant throughout the engine. If this happens to your Baja, it could cause overheating and engine failure or engine seizure in a very short period of time.
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