๐ท๏ธ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Subaru
Model:
Baja
Year:
2003
Generation
Generation:
First Generation (BP)
Codes
Chassis Code:
BR
๐ Introduction
Market Position
Target Audience:
DIY Enthusiasts, Independent Repair Shops
Competitive Analysis
Advantage Over Print:
Instant Access, Searchability, Lower Cost, Convenience
Key Features
Official Licensing:
Ensures accuracy and completeness derived from factory data
User Interface:
Intuitive, push-button access to information
๐ Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Language:
English
Format:
Online Software (Web-based)
Access Duration:
1 Year (with options for extension)
Licensing:
Officially Licensed, OE Material Derived
๐ Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Yes (including diagnostics, repair, and overhaul)
Engine Electrical:
Yes (ignition, fuel injection, sensors, computer control)
Transmission Manual:
Yes (repair, adjustment, fluid service)
Transmission Automatic:
Yes (repair, adjustment, fluid service, diagnostics)
Drivetrain:
Yes (all-wheel drive system, differentials, axles, driveshafts)
Suspension:
Yes (front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers)
Steering:
Yes (power steering system, steering rack, tie rods)
Brakes:
Yes (hydraulic system, ABS, brake components, rotor/pad replacement)
Electrical System:
Yes (wiring diagrams, circuits, lighting, power distribution)
Climate Control:
Yes (HVAC system, A/C, heater, blower motor)
Body And Chassis:
Yes (body panels, doors, interior trim, chassis components)
Restraint Systems:
Yes (airbags, seatbelts, SRS system)
Fuel System:
Yes (fuel pump, injectors, lines, tank)
Exhaust System:
Yes (catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes)
Procedures Included
Routine Maintenance:
Yes (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks)
Preventative Maintenance:
Yes (scheduled service, component inspection)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based guides)
Repair Procedures:
Yes (step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair)
Diagnostic Codes:
Yes (OBD-II codes and interpretations)
Torque Specifications:
Yes (critical for assembly and disassembly)
Wiring Diagrams:
Yes (detailed electrical schematics)
Technical Depth
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced (covering engine management, ABS, and more)
Component Overhaul:
Yes (detailed instructions for engine, transmission, etc.)
๐ Manual Specifications
File Format
Software Requirements:
Web Browser, Internet Connection
Compatibility:
PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable pages available
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
EJ253
Engine Type:
2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (Boxer)
Displacement:
2457 cc (149.9 cu in)
Performance
Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Internals
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1
๐ง Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Manual (less common)
Features
Drivetrain Layout:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
187.6 in (4765 mm)
Width:
70.1 in (1781 mm)
Height:
64.0 in (1626 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.3 in (2649 mm)
Ground Clearance:
8.3 in (211 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
3475 lbs (1576 kg) (Automatic Transmission)
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact:
5 Stars (Front), 4 Stars (Rear)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
AWD:
Standard (Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard CD Player with AM/FM Radio, optional premium audio
Driver Assistance
ABS Functionality:
ABS system is covered for diagnostics and repair.
Connectivity
OBD Ii Support:
Full OBD-II compliant for diagnostics and emissions monitoring.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty) - refer to manual for specifics.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (This model uses a timing chain)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API Certified
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free antifreeze
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF HP or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON compatible fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or DEXRON-III ATF
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier EJ engines, head gasket leaks can still occur and are covered in detail for diagnosis and repair.
Suspension Wear:
Common wear items like control arm bushings and sway bar links are detailed for replacement.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Early EJ engines were prone to exhaust manifold cracking; the manual provides diagnostic procedures for this.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru AWD Legacy:
Subaru is renowned for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a defining feature in many of its models, including the Baja.
Model Evolution
Platform Basis:
Based on the Subaru Outback platform, sharing many components.
Production
Production Years:
2003-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Lafayette, Indiana, USA
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Vehicle Niche Appeal:
The Baja carved out a unique niche as a sport-utility coupe/truck, appealing to a specific segment of buyers looking for versatility.