2003 Subaru Baja Steering Problems

“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.”

“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. …”

“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.”