Two problems related to differential unit have been reported for the 2003 Subaru Baja. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Subaru Baja based on all problems reported for the 2003 Baja.
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.
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. The failure mileage was 120,000.