2005 Subaru Baja used buying checklist
What to check on a used 2005 Subaru Baja before you pay, based on what owners report, its recalls and the repairs the maker covers. Print it and take it to the test drive.
Test for the problems owners report most
The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.
- Gas smell in the cabin9 owner complaints, usually around 130,000 miles
Watch for fuel smells, hard starting and the check engine light, and make sure the fuel gauge works.
Make sure these recalls were done
Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.
- Air bagsRecall number 20V001000, Jan 2, 2020
- Air bagsRecall number 20V002000, Jan 2, 2020
- Air bagsRecall number 20V003000, Jan 2, 2020
- Air bagsRecall number 17V026000, Jan 11, 2017
- Air bagsRecall number 17V014000, Jan 10, 2017
- Air bagsRecall number 17V016000, Jan 10, 2017
- Air bagsRecall number 16V358000, May 25, 2016
- Air bagsRecall number 16V359000, May 25, 2016
- Air bagsRecall number 14V763000, Dec 1, 2014
- Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 09V277000, Jul 17, 2009
Service bulletins worth asking about
Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.
- The purpose ofMar 24, 2025
Before you pay
- Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
- Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
- Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
- Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
- Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.
See every 2005 Subaru Baja problem
VIN decoder
See the problems and recalls for an exact car
Buying a used 2005 Subaru Baja?
Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.
Check its history