2003 Subaru Baja Transmission and drivetrain 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.”

“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.”

“Clutch shudder/judder: cool, cold and/or high humidity clutch shakes driveline & entire car. Duly documented on the ultimate Subaru message board on the internet. Some models covered by manufacturer for parts and labor but many seem to have the same problem after new clutch is installed. Seems to be the only manufacturer that has this problem with an otherwise outstanding car.”

“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.”

“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. …”