Subaru Baja owners have reported 3 wheel related problems since 1996. Table 1 shows the 1 most common wheel problems. The number one most common problem is related to the vehicle's wheel (3 problems). For details of each of the problem category, use the links in the table.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Wheel problems |
"ghost walking" I purchased the car 6 months ago from my father who is a professional driver for the largest shipping company in the us and has been driving for them for over 30 years. When I purchased the car he cautioned me that the back of the vehicle wanders when the road surface doesn't provide consistent traction to both rear tires. This occurs on any surface at varying degrees while moving straight on a level road, up hill, down hill, on corners, while accelerating/braking or coasting. Examples which cause this are small to large potholes, cracks in the road surface, driving with one tire on the painted line in the road (very noticeable surging and can be scary when the road is wet), sand or gravel on the shoulder of a paved road effecting one side of the car only, puddles, slight snow/slush cover, etc. Having had the car for 6 months it is something I experience daily, and the car is downright scary, unsafe in some conditions. I consider myself a very good driver, I'm 35 and have never been in an accident despite driving about 35k miles a year. These cars are dangerous, I have no doubt many accidents have occurred and people have been injured by this mechanical defect, I am a mechanical engineer. I cannot sell this car with a clear conscience unless I convey this safety hazard to a potential buyer so the value has also been destroyed by this problem as well. I will continue to search for a solution to this problem and cross my fingers that Subaru owns up to it before any more people (or myself) suffer the loss of property or life. I will also add that it goes through rear tires quicker than I ever thought possible despite being in proper alignment. As others have mentioned, it seems to be exaggerated if there is any amount of added cargo weight or additional passengers. Step up Subaru, previous loyal owners are dropping like flies in my area.
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.
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.