🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Baja Model Years Covered: 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 Codes Platform: Subaru Outback (Second Generation) based 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Sport Utility Sedan / Ute / Compact Utility Vehicle Unique Selling Proposition: A crossover utility vehicle with an open cargo bed, combining Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and boxer engine with utility. Distinctive styling and niche appeal. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Honda Ridgeline (later model), Ford Explorer Sport Trac, Chevrolet SSR (conceptually similar in niche appeal but different market segment). Key Features Powertrain Advantage: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system for enhanced traction and stability in various conditions. Cargo Innovations: Lockable 'Sport Utility Bed' with a composite lining, under-bed storage, and a vertical midgate that opens to the cabin for extended cargo hauling. Manual Value: Provides in-depth, professional-level guidance for all maintenance and repair tasks, mirroring the resources used by certified Subaru technicians. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Regions: North America (USA, Canada) Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF (Downloadable) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanicals (including EJ25 SOHC and DOHC variants), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECU, sensors, actuators), manual transmission (5-speed), automatic transmission (4-speed Sportshift AWD). Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front disc, rear disc), wheels and tires. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting, power accessories, instrumentation, charging system, starting system, fuses and relays, body control module (BCM), audio system, climate control. Body: Exterior panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, interior trim, cargo area (Sport Utility Bed), bumpers, glass, sunroof (if equipped). Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, belt inspections, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance. Repair: Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake system overhaul, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, electrical system troubleshooting, drivability problems, starting and charging issues. Diagnostics: OBD-II diagnostic procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing, scan tool usage. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Compatibility: Compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems. Print Quality Printability: Fully printable, allowing users to print individual pages or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: EJ253 Engine Type 1: 2.5L SOHC 16-valve horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder Displacement 1: 2457 cc Horsepower 1: 165 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque 1: 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code 2: EJ255 (For Baja Turbo model, not covered by this manual's typical scope but conceptually related) Engine Type 2: 2.5L DOHC 16-valve turbocharged horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder Performance Compression Ratio: 9.5:1 (SOHC) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended Engine Management ECM: Subaru ECU (Engine Control Module) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-speed manual transmission Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-speed automatic transmission with Sportshift AWD Features AWD System: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all Baja models). AWD system differs between manual (viscous center differential) and automatic (electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch) transmissions. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 75W-90) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON compatible fluid, check specific service bulletin) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 192.9 inches (4899 mm) Width: 70.1 inches (1780 mm) Height: 63.6 inches (1615 mm) Wheelbase: 104.3 inches (2650 mm) Cargo Bed Length: 41.5 inches (1054 mm) with midgate closed Bed Width: 49.6 inches (1260 mm) at wheel wells Weights Curb Weight Min: 3395 lbs (1540 kg) (Manual Transmission) Curb Weight Max: 3560 lbs (1615 kg) (Automatic Transmission) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: 4630 lbs (2100 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for 2004 model year) IIHS Front Offset: Good (for 2004 model year) Active Features Traction Control: Standard (except base models may not have it) ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Brake Force Distribution: Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Passive Features Airbags: Front dual-stage airbags. Optional side-impact airbags. Seatbelts: 3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory CD player with AM/FM radio. Some models may have an optional subwoofer and amplifier. Aux input might be available on later models or via aftermarket integration. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control. Connectivity Power Windows Locks: Standard power windows and door locks on most trims. Comfort Features Climate Control: Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change...