2003 Subaru Baja consumer reviews

I bought my Baja in 2003. I now have about 130,000 miles on it and have never had any major problems with it. Yes I've had to.replace a water pump, an alternator, and the spark plugs (once). I've used synthetic oil since day one and only had it tuned up twice. The last tuneup was really because I didn't think it was running quiet right, so I asked for the plugs to be replaced. Mechanic said they didn't need to be replaced, but I insisted. He was right. It is in need of a paint job, but I think it is still one of the best looking cars on the road today and I think it rides as comfortably as it did when purchased. Still proud to drive it!

The car is half car half truck. Very very hard to find one, people who bought them hang on to them for a long time. Parts are well within budget and are easy to find, so maintenance is a breeze.

I bought a 2003(first year edition) while stationed in Hawaii...what a good value! To date-2000, it's still running strong at 240,000 miles. I changed the air flow intake early on a short ram intake, gave the 2.5 non-turbo engine much needed power and acceleration. Changed the stock muffler to flow-master exhaust...love the throaty sound of the boxer engine. As for general maintenance...brakes, oil changes, shocks/struts, radiator, tires, battery and that's it! Alternator, starter, rack and pinion, no electrical, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, air conditioning, or cabin problems...buy one...and you won't ever sell it!

Correcting a lot of deficiencies including leaking head gaskets this has become the ultimate lemon of all the vehicles I have ever purchased. This car was poorly maintained if it was maintained at all.

The best car I ever had (so far). Drives like a car, carries a load like a truck! Sleek design! For such an old model it has some features that you don't get in newer cars unless you pay extra money!

I own the yellow 2003 5spd subaru baja. I have owned it now 6 years and 100k miles. And literally the only things I've had to do to it is just routine maintenance and had to have the bearings replaced in the transmission about 30k ago when writing this. Car now has close too 300k and it still drives like brand new, granted I take very good care of this thing. For anyone who wonders about towing. And the main reason for my comment. It is capable of towing a 6x12 tralier with an 1300lb side by side and another quad at about 300lbs. Full of fuel and camping gear. Granted trying to go freeway speeds of 70-75 mph wont be an option unless you're really pushing it. It was comfortable at 65mph 5th gear. Passing gear or going up the pass was a 3rd-4th gear climb. Towards the top of the pass I took was 8%. Coming down was comfortable in 4th gear just cruising never really having to touch the breaks. Wasn't great on gas only going 190miles before i had to fuel up again. I avg 32.5 empty so, ouch. So, if you can get one buy it up. I routinely take it to the oregon coast from north idaho. Shes rust free even with a quarter million miles on it. Fits my family of only just 3 very nicely. But the main take away is it can tow your toys comfortably.

This is the 5th Subaru, and 28th vehicle I've owned over all. I've always been impressed with the Subaru's. Whether it be their AWD capabilities or design features. Never the best looking vehicles, but certainly the most capable and thought worthy designs.

Good Car,It's a Subaru.Car. Truck.Want another Baja for a second vehicle.With or without turbo.V6 would be nice if they made them.Family all have had Subies.

This car is snazzy looking, a kick to drive and makes me feel thirty years younger. It's quite an ambitious vehicle, what with cup holders and a console in the back seat and all. It's an AWD five speed and a small truck bed great for hauling camping gear and coolers.

Great car, excellent gas mileage, can be used like a little truck with its bed extender and with AWD you never have to worry about getting stuck in the snow.