Vehicle Type:
Compact Pickup Truck / Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) Crossover
Niche:
Unique blend of car-like handling with light truck utility, often appealing to outdoors enthusiasts
Competitors:
Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Chevrolet Avalanche (though larger), Dodge Dakota (though larger)
Powertrain Availability:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on all models
Design:
Two-door coupe utility design with a 4-foot Subaru Outback-style cargo bed and a midgate
Convenience:
Easy to use, step-by-step instructions for DIY repairs
Value Proposition:
Significant cost savings on maintenance and repair by empowering owners
Engine:
Yes, including diagnostics, repair, and overhaul
Transmission:
Yes, automatic and manual (if applicable) diagnostics, repair, and overhaul
Drivetrain:
Yes, including AWD system, differentials, driveshafts
Suspension:
Yes, front and rear suspension, steering system
Brakes:
Yes, including ABS system
Electrical System:
Yes, comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, ECU diagnostics
Fuel System:
Yes, including fuel injection, pump, and tank
Cooling System:
Yes, radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses
Exhaust System:
Yes, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes
HVAC System:
Yes, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
Body And Frame:
Yes, interior and exterior components, structural information
Safety Systems:
Yes, airbags, seatbelts
Preventive Maintenance:
Yes, oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements
Troubleshooting:
Yes, diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Repair Procedures:
Yes, step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair
Wiring Diagrams:
Yes, detailed electrical schematics
Component Disassembly Reassembly:
Yes, detailed instructions for major components
Specifications And Tolerances:
Yes, critical measurements and clearances
Special Tool Requirements:
Yes, identification of necessary specialized tools
Depth:
Professional Quality, In-Depth
Compatibility:
PC, MAC, Tablets, Smartphones (Win/MAC/Linux)
Image Quality:
High-resolution images and diagrams
Text Searchability:
Searchable text for easy navigation
Binding:
N/A (Downloadable Digital Format)
Paper:
N/A (Digital Format)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-Star (2003 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-Star (2003 Model Year)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable (2003 Model Year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available (Check specific trim)
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service) - Refer to manual for precise schedule.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (severe service) / 30,000 miles or 24 months (normal service)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 60,000 miles (check manual for specific plug type and recommendation)
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SG, SH, or SJ certified (Check Owner's Manual for exact specification)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III compatible fluid)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-HOAT coolant, 50/50 mixture with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
While generally less prone than earlier EJ engines, head gasket seepage or leaks can occur, especially at higher mileage. The EJ253 in the Baja is considered more robust than earlier iterations.
Cv Joints:
Front CV joints can wear, especially with aggressive driving or off-road use.
Rear Main Seal:
Rear main engine seal leaks can occur over time.
Rust Corrosion:
As with many vehicles of this era, rust can be an issue, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and the undercarriage, depending on climate and care.
Brand Identity:
Subaru is known for its commitment to Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and boxer engines, emphasizing safety and durability.
Segment Creation:
The Baja was Subaru's unique entry into the burgeoning niche market for compact, car-based utility vehicles.
Design Origin:
Based on the Subaru Outback platform, it blended SUV/wagon characteristics with a pickup bed and the innovative 'Sport Utility Drivetrain' (SUD).
Production Period:
2002 (for 2003 model year) - 2006
Manufacturing Location:
Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. (SIA), Lafayette, Indiana, USA
