Owners have filed 33 complaints
about the 2006 Subaru Baja with NHTSA between 2006 and 2022.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 of 4 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 45
Against the median year of the Subaru Baja. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 94
18.2% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 73
43% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade:
A
B
C
D
F
ungraded
What breaks on a 2006 Subaru Baja
Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.
Engine & Cooling
824.2%
Median failure at 58,540 miles
Suspension
515.2%
1 crashes, 0 fires · median 77,231 mi
Fuel & Propulsion
39.1%
Median failure at 70,000 miles
Brakes
39.1%
2 crashes, 0 fires · median 19,700 mi
Airbags
39.1%
Other & Unspecified
26.1%
Median failure at 104,815 miles
Body & Structure
26.1%
1 crashes, 0 fires · median 95,250 mi
Steering
26.1%
Median failure at 5,578 miles
Transmission & Drivetrain
26.1%
Median failure at 53,569 miles
Wheels
13.0%
Median failure at 77,231 miles
Tires
13.0%
Median failure at 5,400 miles
Acceleration & Cruise Control
13.0%
Median failure at 707 miles
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
517.9%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
310.7%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
414.3%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
517.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
310.7%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
621.4%
150,000+ miles
27.1%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2006 Subaru Baja 4-DR.
—
—
—
—
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Feb 2006peak 3Nov 2022
NHTSA investigations into the 2006 Subaru Baja
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
EA09007Opened 21 May 2009Closed 20 Jul 2009FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
FUEL PUMP LEAKS
SUBARU WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL (09V-277) ON ALL 15, 633 MODEL YEAR (MY) 2005 AND MY 2006 BAJA VEHICLES, INCLUDING TURBO AND NON-TURBO MODELS.SUBARU HAS IDENTIFIED A DEFECT IN WHICH CRACKS DEVELOP IN THE FUEL HOSE CONNECTION (NIPPLE) ON THE OUTLET (PRESSURE) SIDE OF THE FUEL PUMP.THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN A PRESSURIZED LEAK OF GASOLINE FROM THE FUEL PUMP.SUBARU'S ANALYSIS OF SAMPLE PARTS COLLECTED FROM THE FIELD CONFIRMED THE ISSUE TO BE LIMITED TO MY 2005 AND MY 2006 VEHICLES ONLY.SUBARU DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP BRACKET, INCLUDING ALL NIPPLES, WITH A VERSION THAT HAS BEEN MOD...
PE08064Opened 14 Nov 2008Closed 21 May 2009FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
FUEL PUMP LEAK
CRACKS MAY DEVELOP IN THE FUEL HOSE CONNECTION (NIPPLE) ON THE OUTLET (PRESSURE) SIDE OF THE FUEL PUMP.THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN THE LEAKAGE OF GASOLINE FROM THE FUEL PUMP.AS A RESULT OF ADDITIONAL REPORTS AND OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED BY SUBARU IN RESPONSE TO THE AGENCY'S INVESTIGATION, THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO ENGINEERING ANALYSIS EA 09-007.
Recalls on the 2006 Subaru Baja
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
20V002000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
20V001000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
20V003000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V026000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Baja, 2009 Forester, Legacy and Outback and 2006-2009 Impreza (including WRX and STI models) and Tribeca vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V016000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Baja, 2006-2008 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), Tribeca, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles, originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V014000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
16V359000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2006-2008 Impreza, Tribeca, 2006 Saab 9-2x, and 2003-2006 Baja vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
16V358000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202000123,159 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: This recall is for certain vehicles that had an airbag inflator replaced as a part of an earlier recall campaign. This recall provides a final repair. Long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the passenger-front airbag inflator. The passenger-front airbag module or inflator will be replaced as necessary. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.
Recall 201702025,303 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator. Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected.
Recall 2009231102 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, the fuel pump nipple may develop cracks and leak. Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire causing property damage, personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will replace the fuel pump bracket (including nipple) with an update version.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 19,700 milesKailua-Kona, HICrash
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC:ROTOR
RUSTED BRAKES. THE REAR ROTORS ARE PITTED AND NEED TO BE EXCHANGED, ACCORDING TO THE DEALER, AFTER 22 MONTHS AND 19,800 MILES. NO WARRANTY, DEALER SEES THIS AS NORMAL WEAR. ACCORDING TO OTHER AUTHORIZED REPAIR SHOP, BRAKES ARE FINE, SHOES STILL AT 50 %, BRAKES DO NOT NEED REPLACEMENT. NEVER HAD A CAR WITH RUST PITTED ROTORS BEFORE, ESPECIALLY NOT WITH SUCH LOW MILEAGE AND AGE.
NHTSA complaint #10213752 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 19,700 milesKailua-Kona, HICrash
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
1. REAR ROTORS WHERE PITTED AFTER 22 MONTHS, FRONT ROTORS WERE BLUE. THIS WAS DOCUMENTED ON 12/20/07. BRAKE FAILURE RESULTED IN CAR CRASH TWO DAYS LATER.
NHTSA complaint #10213323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 7,500 milesCleveland, TXCrash1 injured
SUSPENSION
WHILE DRIVING A SUBARU BAJA 2006 MODEL I SWERVED AND ROLLED OVER AFTER FISH TAILING. I ALSO ALMOST DID THE SAME IN A 2005 MODEL BUT ONLY CAME UP OFF TWO WHEELS BUT DID NOT ROLL IT , EVEN THOUGH IT WAS CLOSE. I SUSPECT A TENDENCY FOR THE BAJA TO ROLL OVER IS A DESIGN FLAW.
NHTSA complaint #10173833 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 7,500 milesCleveland, TXCrash1 injured
STRUCTURE
WHILE DRIVING A SUBARU BAJA 2006 MODEL I SWERVED AND ROLLED OVER AFTER FISH TAILING. I ALSO ALMOST DID THE SAME IN A 2005 MODEL BUT ONLY CAME UP OFF TWO WHEELS BUT DID NOT ROLL IT , EVEN THOUGH IT WAS CLOSE. I SUSPECT A TENDENCY FOR THE BAJA TO ROLL OVER IS A DESIGN FLAW.
NHTSA complaint #10173833 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Reynoldsburg, OH
SERVICE BRAKES
Brake fluid low (light on), added fluid. A week later the fluid is low again. Found recalls for this year Outback with similar potential problem. Upon inspection it appears that fluid is leaking at or near the coupler near the passenger rear wheel well. The BAJA is mechanically the same as the Outback. This model should be included on theses recalls. NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V110000 NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V311000
NHTSA complaint #11491758 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 183,000 milesEast Chatham, NY
SUSPENSION
I HAD MY HEADLIGHT REPAIRED AT THE DEALERSHIP ON 3/18/20. WHILE THERE THEY DID A COMPLIMENTARY SAFETY INSPECTION OF THE VEHICLE AND IT PASSED WITH FLYING COLORS. I DROVE THE CAR HOME AND PARKED IT IN THE CARPORT. I NOTICED A FEW DAYS LATER THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR TIRE WAS TIPPED IN ON THE TOP. I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC WHO INFORMED ME THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS TOTALLY RUSTED OUT AND CAUSED THE TIRE TO BE RUBBING AGAINST THE INSIDE OF THE WHEEL WELL, WHICH RUINED A BRAND NEW TIRE. I NOW HAVE TO HAVE THE WHOLE SUBFRAME REPLACED IN ORDER TO BE ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AS THE SUBFRAME TOTALLY RUSTED OUT. THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO A FRIEND OF MINE WHO HAD A 2003 BAJA. SHE ENDED UP JUNKING THE VEHICLE. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED A QUOTE FROM THE MECHANIC YET ON THE REPAIRS.
NHTSA complaint #11325099 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 183,000 milesEast Chatham, NY
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
I HAD MY HEADLIGHT REPAIRED AT THE DEALERSHIP ON 3/18/20. WHILE THERE THEY DID A COMPLIMENTARY SAFETY INSPECTION OF THE VEHICLE AND IT PASSED WITH FLYING COLORS. I DROVE THE CAR HOME AND PARKED IT IN THE CARPORT. I NOTICED A FEW DAYS LATER THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR TIRE WAS TIPPED IN ON THE TOP. I BROUGHT THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC WHO INFORMED ME THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS TOTALLY RUSTED OUT AND CAUSED THE TIRE TO BE RUBBING AGAINST THE INSIDE OF THE WHEEL WELL, WHICH RUINED A BRAND NEW TIRE. I NOW HAVE TO HAVE THE WHOLE SUBFRAME REPLACED IN ORDER TO BE ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AS THE SUBFRAME TOTALLY RUSTED OUT. THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO A FRIEND OF MINE WHO HAD A 2003 BAJA. SHE ENDED UP JUNKING THE VEHICLE. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED A QUOTE FROM THE MECHANIC YET ON THE REPAIRS.
NHTSA complaint #11325099 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 103,000 milesRunning Springs, CA
ENGINE
IF THE GAS CAP IS NOT SECURELY TIGHTEN AND I MEAN TIGHTEN HARD. THE CAR WILL STOP OPERATING WITHIN 5 SEC ISH. THIS IS NOT GOOD, NO MATTER WHERE U ARE DRIVING. NOT ENUFF TIME TO PULL OVER SAFELY. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ME AT LEAST 4-5 TIMES NOW.
NHTSA complaint #11317580 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 145,000 milesSalt Lake City, UT
ENGINE
I HAD THE HEAD GASKETS AND TIMING BELT REPLACED AT 142,000 MILES. BRAND NEW. I PUT OIL IN MY CAR EVERY TIME I FILLED UP WITH GAS, AS I WAS TOLD SUBARUS BURN A LOT OF OIL. THE LOW LIGHT NEVER CAME ON, NEVER HAD A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COME ON. THREE MONTHS LATER, AT 145,000, WITHOUT ANY INDICATION THAT SOMETHING IS WRONG, GOING 70 ON THE FREEWAY, IN 5TH GEAR, I HEAR A "POP" SOUND AND MY CAR STARTS TO LOSE POWER, SMOKE IS COMING FROM THE ENGINE. I GET PULLED OVER, SAFELY THANK GOODNESS, AND CAR DIES. NO LONGER WILL TURN ON. SMOKE IS POURING FROM THE ENGINE. I AM TOWED TO THE MECHANICS WHERE THEY TELL ME THEY "THINK" A ROD BEARING THROUGH A ROD THROUGH THE ENGINE. NOT SURE IS THIS COULD BE CAUSED BY THE RECALL, BUT SOMETHING DID. I'M QUITE FRUSTRATED AT THIS CAR, NOT TO MENTION, THE COST. SO. I AM CHECKING. THANK YOU.
NHTSA complaint #11270840 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lima, OH
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU BAJA. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V359000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED LARICHIE SUBARU (920 PLAZA ST, FINDLAY, OH 45840, (419) 423-5656) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #11124274 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 135,000 milesLivermore, ME
SUSPENSION
SUB FRAME ON DRIVERS SIDE REAR RUSTED THROUGH AND BROKE AT UPPER SUPPORT MAIN ARM RESULTING MAKING TIRE WOBBLE AND RUBBING ON STRUT SPRING.
NHTSA complaint #11078750 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 106,432 milesLena, IL
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU BAJA. WHILE THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS IN REVERSE, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND A GRINDING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE BEARING WAS HOOKED ONTO THE UNIVERSAL SHAFT, AND THE UNIVERSAL JOINT AND DRIVE SHAFT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V277000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE CONTACT CALLED RILEY SUBARU AT (563) 588-2326 (4455 DODGE ST, DUBUQUE, IA 52003) WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT INQUIRED ABOUT A RECALL FOR THE UNIVERSAL JOINT AND DRIVE SHAFT, BUT THERE WAS NONE. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO CALL NHTSA. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 106,432. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #11054684 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 106,432 milesLena, IL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU BAJA. WHILE THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS IN REVERSE, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND A GRINDING NOISE WAS HEARD FROM THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE BEARING WAS HOOKED ONTO THE UNIVERSAL SHAFT, AND THE UNIVERSAL JOINT AND DRIVE SHAFT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V277000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE CONTACT CALLED RILEY SUBARU AT (563) 588-2326 (4455 DODGE ST, DUBUQUE, IA 52003) WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT INQUIRED ABOUT A RECALL FOR THE UNIVERSAL JOINT AND DRIVE SHAFT, BUT THERE WAS NONE. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO CALL NHTSA. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 106,432. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #11054684 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 132,400 milesScarborough, ME
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
FRAME THAT HOLDS MOTOR MOUNT AND STEERING COMPONENTS TO FRONT WHEELS IS RUSTED SO BADLY, IT WILL NOT PASS ANNUAL INSPECTION.
NHTSA complaint #11011544 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tiffin, OH
ENGINE
I BOUGHT THIS CAR A FEW YEARS AGO. I BOUGHT A WELL MAINTAINED SUBARU THAT WAS IN PERFECT CONDITION.. ABOUT A YEAR AGO IT STARTED LEAKING OIL FOUND OUT THE HEAD GASKETS WERE LEAKING. HAD THEM REPLACED AND IT STILL LEAKS. SUBARU WAS CONTACTED AND THEY OFFERED SOME MONEY OFF A NEW SUBARU. MY CAR IS WORK SIGNIFICANTLY LESS FROM THIS PROBLEM. AND I TO TRY TO FIX IT AGAIN. COULD BE A FIRE HAZARD.
NHTSA complaint #10994295 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Alameda, CA
AIR BAGS
TAKATA RECALL: RECEIVED NOTICE OF PASSENGER-SIDE FRONT SEAT AIRBAG RECALL IN JULY 2016; USE OF PASSENGER FRONT SEAT RESTRICTED SINCE THEN. I UNDERSTAND BACKLOG, BUT SIX MONTHS?
NHTSA complaint #10934111 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Eliot, ME
AIR BAGS
TAKATA RECALL ON MY VEHICLE IS STILL NOT REPAIRED. I HAVE BEEN DRIVING MY VEHICLE FOR OVER 10 YEARS AND LIVE IN A VERY HUMID REGION OF SOUTH EASTERN MAINE. HOW CAN IT BE ACCEPTABLE FOR SUBARU TO NOT HAVE TO SUPPLY ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION FOR CUSTOMERS DURING THIS TIME WHEN IT IS KNOW A SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH IS VERY LIKELY TO OCCUR WITH THE SLIGHTEST AUTO ACCIDENT? PLEASE HELP ME FIND A MEANS TO EXPEDITE THIS REPAIR OR BE PROVIDED WITH ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION UNTIL THIS REPAIR CAN BE COMPLETED. THANK YOU
NHTSA complaint #10895491 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 77,231 milesBoston, PA
WHEELS
SUB FRAME ON DRIVERS SIDE REAR RUSTED THROUGH AND BROKE AT UPPER SUPPORT MAIN ARM RESULTING MAKING TIRE WOBBLE AND RUBBING INNER TIRE WELL. IF NOT NOTICED IN TIME TIRE WOULD HAVE BLOWN OUT COLLAPSING MAIN SUPPORT ARM CAUSING A CRASH
NHTSA complaint #10723933 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 77,231 milesBoston, PA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SUB FRAME ON DRIVERS SIDE REAR RUSTED THROUGH AND BROKE AT UPPER SUPPORT MAIN ARM RESULTING MAKING TIRE WOBBLE AND RUBBING INNER TIRE WELL. IF NOT NOTICED IN TIME TIRE WOULD HAVE BLOWN OUT COLLAPSING MAIN SUPPORT ARM CAUSING A CRASH
NHTSA complaint #10723933 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 77,231 milesBoston, PA
SUSPENSION
SUB FRAME ON DRIVERS SIDE REAR RUSTED THROUGH AND BROKE AT UPPER SUPPORT MAIN ARM RESULTING MAKING TIRE WOBBLE AND RUBBING INNER TIRE WELL. IF NOT NOTICED IN TIME TIRE WOULD HAVE BLOWN OUT COLLAPSING MAIN SUPPORT ARM CAUSING A CRASH
NHTSA complaint #10723933 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 55,000 milesBurien, WA
ENGINE
I HAVE A 2006 BAJA TURBO, OBSIDIAN BLACK, 5 SPEED. IT HAS (60K) ON THE ODOMETER. I BOUGHT IT NEW AND LOVED IT FROM DAY ONE. HOWEVER, FEBRUARY OF LAST YEAR THAT LOVE WAS LOST. THE CEL CAME ON AND I WENT TO AUTOZONE TO HAVE THE CODE PULLED. IT SHOWED PO304. I WAS TOLD IT WAS A MISFIRE ON CYLINDER #4. I ASKED THE GUY THERE WHAT THE CAUSE COULD BE. HE SAID IT COULD BE ANYTHING FROM A FUEL INJECTOR, TO THE COIL PACK OR A VALVE ISSUE. I LOOKED UP ON THIS FORUM AND THERE WERE MULTIPLE CASES THAT PULLED UP. I READ WHAT FIXES WORKED FOR SOME AND NOT FOR OTHERS. I TRIED INJECTOR CLEANER. THAT DID NOTHING. I INSTALLED A NEW COIL PACK ON CYLINDER FOUR. IT RAN BETTER FOR A SHORT TIME AND THEN THE CEL CAME BACK ON. I REPLACED ALL FOUR SPARK PLUGS. ONCE AGAIN A SHORT TERM FIX, JUST A FEW MILES. FINALLY, I INSTALLED A NEW FUEL INJECTOR. AGAIN BETTER, THEN MUCH WORSE. I TOOK TO THE BAJA TO A LOCAL SUBARU DEALER FEARING THE WORST. SURE ENOUGH, BURNT EXHAUST VALVES ON CYLINDERS #2 AND #4. THEY GAVE A ROUGH QUOTE OF 5-6K TO FIX IT. I WAS OFFERED 7K FOR THE TRUCK IN THE SHAPE IT WAS IN. ANGERED BY THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE, I SENT A LETTER TO SUBARU OF AMERICA AND SUBARU JAPAN EXPLAINING IN GREAT DETAIL THE ISSUE AND THAT THERE WERE SEVERAL SIMILAR CASES NOTED ONLINE IN VARIOUS MODELS OF SUBARU WITH THE EJ255 ENGINE. I WAS HOPING THEY WOULD OFFER SOME ASSISTANCE, NO DICE. THEY BASICALLY THANKED FOR SENDING THEM THE LETTER AND TELLING THEM OF THE ISSUE. THEY STATED SINCE THE BAJA WAS OUT OF WARRANTY AND THERE WAS NO RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE, THERE WAS NOTHING THEY WOULD DO.
NHTSA complaint #10669897 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 55,000 milesBurien, WA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I HAVE A 2006 BAJA TURBO, OBSIDIAN BLACK, 5 SPEED. IT HAS (60K) ON THE ODOMETER. I BOUGHT IT NEW AND LOVED IT FROM DAY ONE. HOWEVER, FEBRUARY OF LAST YEAR THAT LOVE WAS LOST. THE CEL CAME ON AND I WENT TO AUTOZONE TO HAVE THE CODE PULLED. IT SHOWED PO304. I WAS TOLD IT WAS A MISFIRE ON CYLINDER #4. I ASKED THE GUY THERE WHAT THE CAUSE COULD BE. HE SAID IT COULD BE ANYTHING FROM A FUEL INJECTOR, TO THE COIL PACK OR A VALVE ISSUE. I LOOKED UP ON THIS FORUM AND THERE WERE MULTIPLE CASES THAT PULLED UP. I READ WHAT FIXES WORKED FOR SOME AND NOT FOR OTHERS. I TRIED INJECTOR CLEANER. THAT DID NOTHING. I INSTALLED A NEW COIL PACK ON CYLINDER FOUR. IT RAN BETTER FOR A SHORT TIME AND THEN THE CEL CAME BACK ON. I REPLACED ALL FOUR SPARK PLUGS. ONCE AGAIN A SHORT TERM FIX, JUST A FEW MILES. FINALLY, I INSTALLED A NEW FUEL INJECTOR. AGAIN BETTER, THEN MUCH WORSE. I TOOK TO THE BAJA TO A LOCAL SUBARU DEALER FEARING THE WORST. SURE ENOUGH, BURNT EXHAUST VALVES ON CYLINDERS #2 AND #4. THEY GAVE A ROUGH QUOTE OF 5-6K TO FIX IT. I WAS OFFERED 7K FOR THE TRUCK IN THE SHAPE IT WAS IN. ANGERED BY THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE, I SENT A LETTER TO SUBARU OF AMERICA AND SUBARU JAPAN EXPLAINING IN GREAT DETAIL THE ISSUE AND THAT THERE WERE SEVERAL SIMILAR CASES NOTED ONLINE IN VARIOUS MODELS OF SUBARU WITH THE EJ255 ENGINE. I WAS HOPING THEY WOULD OFFER SOME ASSISTANCE, NO DICE. THEY BASICALLY THANKED FOR SENDING THEM THE LETTER AND TELLING THEM OF THE ISSUE. THEY STATED SINCE THE BAJA WAS OUT OF WARRANTY AND THERE WAS NO RECALL FOR THIS ISSUE, THERE WAS NOTHING THEY WOULD DO.
NHTSA complaint #10669897 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesAustin, TX
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
FUEL LEAK/SMELL ON PASSENGER SIDE DURING COLD WEATHER. LEAKING OIL FROM ENGINE HEAD GASKET.
NHTSA complaint #10561366 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesAustin, TX
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
FUEL LEAK/SMELL ON PASSENGER SIDE DURING COLD WEATHER. LEAKING OIL FROM ENGINE HEAD GASKET.
NHTSA complaint #10561366 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 707 milesLOS Angeles, CA
POWER TRAIN
2006 SUBARU BAJA TURBO WITH SEVERAL PROBLEMS INCLUDING LUNGING FORWARD AND RANDOMLY SPUTTERING AND HESITATING.. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE PROBLEMS BEGAN WHEN THE VEHICLE HAD 707 MILES AND HAVE CONTINUED. *KB THE CONSUMER STATED ON ONE OCCASION, THERE WAS NO THROTTLE RESPONSE. SOMTIMES THE VEHICLE WOULD IDLE HIGH AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD FREQUENTLY COME ON AND STAY ON.
NHTSA complaint #10253489 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 707 milesLOS Angeles, CA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2006 SUBARU BAJA TURBO WITH SEVERAL PROBLEMS INCLUDING LUNGING FORWARD AND RANDOMLY SPUTTERING AND HESITATING.. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE PROBLEMS BEGAN WHEN THE VEHICLE HAD 707 MILES AND HAVE CONTINUED. *KB THE CONSUMER STATED ON ONE OCCASION, THERE WAS NO THROTTLE RESPONSE. SOMTIMES THE VEHICLE WOULD IDLE HIGH AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD FREQUENTLY COME ON AND STAY ON.
NHTSA complaint #10253489 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 707 milesLOS Angeles, CA
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
MY VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY IN THE SHOP FOR THE 8TH TIME FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. EACH TIME A DIFFERENT PART OR PARTS WERE REPLACED AND EACH TIME THE DEALER STATED THAT THE CAR WAS FIXED BUT THE SAME BEHAVIOR WOULD COME BACK, SOMETIMES WITHIN A WEEK OR SOMETIMES MANY MONTHS AFTER THE REPAIR. THERE IS NO RHYME OR REASON AS TO WHEN IT HAPPENS (IE. NOTHING LEADS UP TO IT HAPPENING) BUT BASICALLY, IT HESITATES AND SPUTTERS OR LUNGES FORWARD WHILE YOU ARE ACCELERATING. IT'S AS IF THE ACCELERATION JUST DROPS OUT BUT THEN COMES BACK OR ACCELERATES AND THEN BACKS OFF AGAIN. SOMETIMES IT IS SUBTLE; SOMETIMES IT HESITATES OR ACCELERATES VIOLENTLY. I HAVE SPOKEN TO THE MANUFACTURER SEVERAL TIMES ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. THEY HAVE EXTENDED MY WARRANTY FOR FREE AND ALSO PROVIDE ME WITH A LOANER CAR WHEN IT IS IN FOR SERVICE AS A SIGN OF GOOD WILL, BUT IT IS OBVIOUS THAT THIS CAR IS DANGEROUS. I AM SERIOUSLY AFRAID THAT EVENTUALLY I WILL BE HIT FROM BEHIND WHEN IT HESITATES OR HIT SOMEONE FROM BEHIND WHEN IT ACCELERATES UNEXPECTEDLY. I'M NOT SURE THE CAR IS EVEN ABLE TO BE FIXED CONSIDERING THEY HAVE BEEN TRYING TO REPAIR IT FOR 2 YEARS NOW. DATES OF SERVICE ARE 11/20/06, 12/3/06, 2/12/07, 2/21/07, 3/8/07, 3/8/08, 7/22/08 AND 11/8/08 (THE DEALER STILL HAS IT AS OF TODAY, 12/9/08). DAYS OUT OF SERVICE IS APPROX. 82 SO FAR. I DON'T KNOW IF THE OLD PARTS ARE AVAILABLE AS THE DEALER HAS KEPT ALL OF THOSE; I DO HAVE SERVICE RECORDS FOR EACH TIME AT THE DEALER FOR REPAIRS AND WHAT WAS DONE EACH TIME. I AM ALSO CURRENTLY DEALING WITH A REGIONAL REP FROM SUBARU WHO NEVER RETURNS MY CALLS. I'VE OWNED ONE OTHER SUBARU AND ONLY HAD MINOR AND ORDINARILY PROBLEMS WITH THAT CAR. SUBARU NEEDS TO STEP UP AND DO THE RIGHT THING BY GETTING THIS DANGEROUS CAR OFF THE ROAD.
NHTSA complaint #10251239 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 58,540 milesSilverthorne, CO
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU BAJA. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER AND SHUT OFF. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN TO THE DEALER THREE TIMES FOR THE FAILURE. DURING THE FIRST VISIT, THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DIAGNOSED. THE MECHANIC EVENTUALLY STATED THAT THE ACCELERATOR RELAY SWITCH FAILED. THE VEHICLE HAS SHUT OFF 25 TIMES SINCE IT WAS PURCHASED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,540. UPDATED 09/10/08 *BF UPDATED 09/17/08.
NHTSA complaint #10239418 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 16,992 milesNanticoke, PA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SUBARU BAJA. THE ENGINE KNOCKS WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED. THE DEALER REPLACED TWO PISTONS, BUT THE FAILURE STILL EXISTS. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE FAILURE IS NORMAL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 16,992 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 34,000.
NHTSA complaint #10218752 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.