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2004 Subaru Baja Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.60
Based on 12 Owner Reviews ▶
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2004 Subaru Baja is a unique vehicle that blended the functionality of a pickup truck with the comfort of a sedan. Produced by Subaru from 2003 to 2006, it features a four-door, open-bed body style. Key trims included the base model and the Sport. New, it ranged roughly from $24,000 to $26,000. Its quirky design and Subaru's reputation for reliability and all-wheel-drive capability made it a cult favorite.
The Good

The 2004 Subaru Baja offers a blend of practicality and fun. Its symmetrical all-wheel drive provides confident handling in various conditions, appealing to practical buyers. The unique design and open bed provide utility. Subaru's reliability reputation and decent fuel economy add value, while the Baja's distinctive looks and outdoor-ready vibe cater to emotional appeal.

The Bad

The 2004 Subaru Baja's weaknesses include limited rear passenger space and a small truck bed, reducing its practicality compared to true trucks. Rust can be a problem, especially in areas with road salt. The naturally aspirated engine can feel underpowered, and parts availability can be challenging due to the Baja's relatively low production numbers.

2004 Subaru Baja: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated 4-cylinder boxer engine
    • 2.5L SOHC turbocharged 4-cylinder boxer engine (available on the Sport trim)
  • Horsepower:
    • Naturally Aspirated: 165 hp @ 5600 rpm
    • Turbocharged: 210 hp @ 5600 rpm
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
    • Naturally Aspirated: 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (manual), 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (automatic)
    • Turbocharged: 18 mpg city / 23 mpg highway (automatic only)
  • 0-60 mph Times:
    • Naturally Aspirated: Approximately 9.5 seconds
    • Turbocharged: Approximately 7.3 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 2,400 lbs (with trailer brakes)
  • Trim Level Features:
    • Base: Standard all-wheel drive, air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, AM/FM stereo with CD player.
    • Sport: Adds alloy wheels, upgraded cloth upholstery, fog lights, and available turbocharged engine. Some Sport models also included a limited-slip rear differential.

2004 Subaru Baja Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2004
Make Subaru
Model Baja
Trim -
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Pricing
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What Problems Does the 2004 Subaru Baja Have?

The 2004 Subaru Baja, like other Subaru models of the era, can suffer from head gasket issues, leading to coolant leaks and potential engine overheating. This is a common problem with the 2.5L engine. Rust is another concern, particularly in areas where road salt is used. Check around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
The turbocharged models are more prone to oil leaks and turbocharger issues. Owners should be diligent about oil changes and inspect the turbo regularly.
Other potential issues include worn suspension components, especially the rear self-leveling suspension (if equipped). The exhaust system can also be prone to corrosion.
Recalls for the 2004 Subaru Baja have been issued for various issues over the years, including potential fuel leakage and brake light switch failures. Always check the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date recall information.
Long-term reliability can be good if the Baja is well-maintained. Addressing potential issues early can prevent more significant problems down the road. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and coolant flushes, is crucial.

How long will the 2004 Subaru Baja last?

A well-maintained 2004 Subaru Baja can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report exceeding this milestone with proper care. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, timing belt replacements, and addressing any leaks promptly, is critical.
Long-term durability is generally good, but the head gasket issue remains a potential concern. Rust can also shorten the lifespan, especially in harsh climates. The turbocharged engine, while offering more power, may require more frequent maintenance to ensure longevity. Overall, the Baja can provide many years of service if properly cared for.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2004 Subaru Baja's tech and safety features are relatively basic by today's standards.

Entertainment: Standard models came with an AM/FM stereo and a CD player. Higher trims may have included an upgraded sound system.

Safety: Standard safety features included front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side airbags were not available. All Bajas featured Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which enhances traction and stability.

Driver-Assistance: Driver-assistance features were limited, with no modern features like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring available.

Crash-Test Ratings: The 2004 Subaru Baja received mixed crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It earned a "Good" rating for frontal offset crash tests but a "Marginal" rating for side-impact crash tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also conducted crash tests, with results varying depending on the specific test.

Optional Features: Optional features varied by trim and could include a sunroof, fog lights, and upgraded upholstery. The turbocharged engine was an option on the Sport trim. The Baja lacks modern infotainment and advanced safety features, which is typical for vehicles of its era.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Aspen White
Black Diamond Pearl
Blaze Yellow
Silver Stone Metallic
Atlantic Blue Pearl
Interior Colors
Gray Cloth

2004 Subaru Baja Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2004 Subaru Baja ranged from approximately $24,000 to $26,000, depending on the trim and options. In today's used market, prices vary widely based on condition, mileage, and location. Expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 or more for a well-maintained example.
The Baja has depreciated significantly over the years, but its unique design and cult following have helped it retain some value. Factors affecting resale value include condition, mileage, whether it has the desirable turbocharged engine, and the presence of rust. Low-mileage, rust-free examples command a premium.

2004 Subaru Baja Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for the 2004 Subaru Baja are generally moderate. Fuel costs are average for its class, around 20 mpg combined. Maintenance can be slightly higher than average due to the Subaru's unique engine and potential for head gasket issues. Repairs can be costly, especially for the turbocharged engine and if rust is present. Long-term ownership costs are moderate, but proactive maintenance is key to preventing expensive repairs. It's not the most economical vehicle to own, but its unique appeal can outweigh the costs for some buyers.

2004 Subaru Baja Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type -
Fuel Capacity -
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Highway Mileage -

2004 Subaru Baja Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2004 Subaru Baja Recalls & Defects

Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date 2004-10-01
Recall no. 04v473000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Passenger and Sport Utility Vehicles, THE Cover Bolts FOR THE Engine OIL Control Valve MAY NOT BE Sufficiently Tightened, Allowing OIL TO Leak From Around THE Cover Gasket.
Consequence IF Leaking OIL Contacts Components Operating AT High Temperatures, A Fire Could Result IN THE Engine Compartment.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Retighten THE Oil-Flow Control Valve Cover Bolts. THE Recall Began ON October 8, 2004. Owners Should Contact Subaru AT 1-800-782-2783.
Notes Subaru Recall NO. Wwu-05.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2013-11-29
Recall no. 13e065000
Source NHTSA
Summary Airtex Products LP (Airtex) IS Recalling Certain Model E8598m, E8518m, E8600m, E8596m, and E8597m Fuel Pumps Manufactured July 26, 2013, and July 29, 2013 and Used AS Aftermarket Replacements ON Subaru Baja's, Outback's and Legacy's. THE Affected Fuel Pumps Were Sold or Installed Into THE Aftermarket Applications ON or After July 26, 2013, and MAY MAY Leak Fuel From THE Base OF A Fuel Line Connection When THE GAS Tank IS Full.
Consequence A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source Increases THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy Airtex Will Notify Owners, and Will Replace THE Fuel Pump, Free OF Charge. Recall IS Expected TO Begin ON January 2, 2014. Customers MAY Contact Airtex AT 1-800-880-3056. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During January 2014. This Recall IS Being Conducted BY Airtex, NOT BY Subaru.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2015-05-28
Recall no. 15v323000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2003-2004 Subaru Baja Vehicles Manufactured January 22, 2003, TO July 21, 2004, 2004-2005 Impreza Vehicles Manufactured January 28, 2003, TO MAY 31, 2005, 2003-2008 Subaru Legacy Vehicles Manufactured January 22, 2003, TO MAY 2, 2008, 2003-2008 Subaru Outback Vehicles Manufactured February 18, 2003, TO MAY 5, 2008, and 2005 Saab 9-2x Vehicles Manufactured February 11, 2004, TO March 17, 2005. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Equipped With A Passenger Side Frontal AIR BAG That MAY BE Susceptible TO Moisture Intrusion Which, Over Time, Could Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture Upon ITS Deployment.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners and General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Subaru Recall Began ON June 17, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-800-782-2783. THE Saab Recall Began ON July 27, 2015. Owners OF Saab Vehicles MAY Call 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wqr-53. Note: THE Recall Completely Supersedes Recall 14v-399 (Wql-48) and Partially Supersedes Recall 14v-763 (Wqp-51) IN That Model Year 2004 Through 2005 Subaru Impreza and Model Year 2005 Saab 9-2x Vehicles ARE NOW Only Part OF This Campaign. Note: ON December 18, 2015 Subaru Informed Nhtsa OF AN Expansion OF This Recall TO Include Certain Model Year 2003-2004 Subaru Baja, 2003-2008 Subaru Legacy and 2003-2008 Subaru Outback Vehicles.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2016-05-25
Recall no. 16v361000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, and Baja Vehicles Originally Sold or That Have Ever Been Registered IN 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 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.
Consequence AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 24, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkc-16. Note: This Recall Covers Vehicles That Were NOT Previously Covered IN 16v-358 FOR Zone A or 16v-359 FOR Zone B.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date 2014-12-01
Recall no. 14v763000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2003-2004 Legacy and Outback Vehicles, and 2003-2005 Baja Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Geographic Locations Associated With High Absolute Humidity. Specifically, Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Puerto Rico, Hawaii, THE U.s. Virgin Islands, Guam, Saipan, American Samoa, Florida and Adjacent Counties IN Southern Georgia, AS Well AS THE Coastal Areas OF Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. Upon Deployment OF THE Passenger Side Frontal AIR Bag, Excessive Internal Pressure MAY Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger?s Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON January 15, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Subaru AT 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wqp-51. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 14v-471. This Recall HAS Been Partially Superseded BY 15v-323. All 2005 Model Year Subaru Legacy and Outback Vehicles Will NOW BE Repaired Under Recall 15v-323.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2016-05-25
Recall no. 16v358000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
Consequence AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 26, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-856-488-8500. Saab Owners MAY Contact GM AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tka-16.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2016-05-25
Recall no. 16v359000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
Consequence AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began August 24, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-856-488-8500. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkb-16. Note: This Notice IS Only FOR Vehicles That Were NOT Covered BY 16v-358 FOR Zone A.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v003000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkc-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v002000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkb-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v001000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators With Alternate Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tka-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2004 Subaru Baja Insurance

Insurance for a 2004 Subaru Baja is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2004 Subaru Baja Compare to Other Vehicle?

The 2004 Subaru Baja doesn't have direct rivals due to its unique body style. However, comparisons can be made to small trucks like the Ford Ranger or Chevrolet S-10, and to Subaru's own Outback wagon.

Performance: The Baja's naturally aspirated engine is less powerful than some truck offerings, while the turbocharged version provides decent performance, similar to some V6 trucks. The Baja's AWD gives it an advantage in inclement weather.

Features: The Baja lacks the bed space and towing capacity of traditional trucks. Its features are comparable to a mid-range Outback of the same year.

Reliability: Subaru has a decent reliability record, but the head gasket issue is a concern. Small trucks from Toyota and Nissan generally have better long-term reliability.

Price: Used Baja prices can be higher than comparable small trucks due to its rarity and cult following.

Alternatives: If practicality is paramount, a small truck like the Toyota Tacoma (older models) offers better bed space and reliability. The Subaru Outback provides similar AWD capability and passenger comfort with more cargo space. If seeking uniqueness is the top priority, then nothing truly replaces the Baja. It's a niche vehicle that may not be the best in any particular category, but its blend of features appeals to a specific type of buyer.

Ranks #441 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
441 2004 Subaru Baja (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Subaru Baja a Good Vehicle?

The 2004 Subaru Baja is ideal for those seeking a unique and versatile vehicle with all-wheel drive capability. It's a good choice for individuals who need a small truck bed for occasional hauling but also want the comfort and handling of a car.
Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition. A well-maintained, rust-free Baja, especially a turbocharged model, can be a fun and practical choice. However, be prepared for potentially higher maintenance costs and limited parts availability. It's only available used, so a thorough inspection is essential before purchasing. Consider the Baja if you value individuality and all-weather capability over outright practicality and low running costs.

2004 Subaru Baja Owner Reviews

4.60
Consumer Rating, Based on 12 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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corri23 on July 24, 2017

This car has saved my life

Ive owned a subaru baja for 13 years and am just now deciding to part with it. It has kept me safe through 3 accidents and countless other events such as snow storms and being stuck in the mud. Had I not lived in a city so prone to bump and scratches, you would not know that this thing is as old as it is. Requires good maintenance but if you take of it, it will take care of you.

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Baja04 on June 28, 2017

Great Car, Fun to Drive. 4th Subaru

I have owned 3 previous Subaru's. The Baja did not disappoint. The 5 speed Turbo gives plenty of acceleration in any gear, the 4 wheel drive keeps the power on the road, the raised nature of the truck gives the extra ground clearance so driving on unplowed roads is not a problem, nice wraparound leather sports seats give the interior a touch of class. The unique combination of 4 doors and a truck bed made it a great ride to drive to work in and great utility for play on the weekend. Plenty of compliments and envy from friends and strangers alike.

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RS2.5 on December 21, 2010

2nd Subaru

My second Subaru bought specifically to get around during wonderful midwest winters. Driving in several inches today and no slipping during stops or starts. Feels extermely secure in less than perfect conditions. The ground clearance and cabin space is greater than my RS 2.5 2 door. The headroom is a little tight because of the retracting moonroof. The leather seats are very comfortable and the dual front-rear consoles are a plus. Since it is a 2.5 Turbo model with sport shift, performance is race car like. Had all the fluids changed soon after purchase. Have fixed a couple minor interior-exterior broke trim items. Have also added deep grove floor mats available from Subaru. Multi-CD changer is a little picky about what it will play and no MP3s. Added a cigar lighter iPod FM adapter to add MP3 playback capability. Warmer weather will allow greater use of the pick-up bed for bikes and hauling.

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corri23 on July 24, 2017

This car has saved my life

Ive owned a subaru baja for 13 years and am just now deciding to part with it. It has kept me safe through 3 accidents and countless other events such as snow storms and being stuck in the mud. Had I not lived in a city so prone to bump and scratches, you would not know that this thing is as old as it is. Requires good maintenance but if you take of it, it will take care of you.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Baja04 on June 28, 2017

Great Car, Fun to Drive. 4th Subaru

I have owned 3 previous Subaru's. The Baja did not disappoint. The 5 speed Turbo gives plenty of acceleration in any gear, the 4 wheel drive keeps the power on the road, the raised nature of the truck gives the extra ground clearance so driving on unplowed roads is not a problem, nice wraparound leather sports seats give the interior a touch of class. The unique combination of 4 doors and a truck bed made it a great ride to drive to work in and great utility for play on the weekend. Plenty of compliments and envy from friends and strangers alike.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

RS2.5 on December 21, 2010

2nd Subaru

My second Subaru bought specifically to get around during wonderful midwest winters. Driving in several inches today and no slipping during stops or starts. Feels extermely secure in less than perfect conditions. The ground clearance and cabin space is greater than my RS 2.5 2 door. The headroom is a little tight because of the retracting moonroof. The leather seats are very comfortable and the dual front-rear consoles are a plus. Since it is a 2.5 Turbo model with sport shift, performance is race car like. Had all the fluids changed soon after purchase. Have fixed a couple minor interior-exterior broke trim items. Have also added deep grove floor mats available from Subaru. Multi-CD changer is a little picky about what it will play and no MP3s. Added a cigar lighter iPod FM adapter to add MP3 playback capability. Warmer weather will allow greater use of the pick-up bed for bikes and hauling.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

corri23 on July 24, 2017

This car has saved my life

Ive owned a subaru baja for 13 years and am just now deciding to part with it. It has kept me safe through 3 accidents and countless other events such as snow storms and being stuck in the mud. Had I not lived in a city so prone to bump and scratches, you would not know that this thing is as old as it is. Requires good maintenance but if you take of it, it will take care of you.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Baja04 on June 28, 2017

Great Car, Fun to Drive. 4th Subaru

I have owned 3 previous Subaru's. The Baja did not disappoint. The 5 speed Turbo gives plenty of acceleration in any gear, the 4 wheel drive keeps the power on the road, the raised nature of the truck gives the extra ground clearance so driving on unplowed roads is not a problem, nice wraparound leather sports seats give the interior a touch of class. The unique combination of 4 doors and a truck bed made it a great ride to drive to work in and great utility for play on the weekend. Plenty of compliments and envy from friends and strangers alike.

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RS2.5 on December 21, 2010

2nd Subaru

My second Subaru bought specifically to get around during wonderful midwest winters. Driving in several inches today and no slipping during stops or starts. Feels extermely secure in less than perfect conditions. The ground clearance and cabin space is greater than my RS 2.5 2 door. The headroom is a little tight because of the retracting moonroof. The leather seats are very comfortable and the dual front-rear consoles are a plus. Since it is a 2.5 Turbo model with sport shift, performance is race car like. Had all the fluids changed soon after purchase. Have fixed a couple minor interior-exterior broke trim items. Have also added deep grove floor mats available from Subaru. Multi-CD changer is a little picky about what it will play and no MP3s. Added a cigar lighter iPod FM adapter to add MP3 playback capability. Warmer weather will allow greater use of the pick-up bed for bikes and hauling.

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corri23 on July 24, 2017

This car has saved my life

Ive owned a subaru baja for 13 years and am just now deciding to part with it. It has kept me safe through 3 accidents and countless other events such as snow storms and being stuck in the mud. Had I not lived in a city so prone to bump and scratches, you would not know that this thing is as old as it is. Requires good maintenance but if you take of it, it will take care of you.

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