2003 Subaru Baja AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Fuel Tank: Removal

  1. Set vehicle on the lift.
  2. Release fuel pressure.

    < Ref. to RELEASING OF FUEL PRESSURE , OPERATION, Fuel.>

  3. Drain fuel from fuel tank. < Ref. to DRAINING FUEL , OPERATION, Fuel.>
  4. Remove holder clip which secures fuel tank cord on bracket.
    Fig 1: Removing Holder Clip Securing Fuel Tank Cord On Bracket
    G02874984Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  5. Disconnect connector of fuel tank cord to rear harness.
    Fig 2: Disconnecting Connector Of Fuel Tank Cord To Rear Harness
    G02874985Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  6. Push grommet which holds fuel tank cord on service hole cover into body side.
    Fig 3: Pushing Grommet Holding Fuel Tank Cord On Service Hole Cover Into Body Side
    G02874986Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  7. Separate quick connector of fuel delivery (A) and return hose (B).

    < Ref. to REMOVAL , Fuel Delivery, Return and Evaporation Lines.>

    Fig 4: Separating Connector Of Fuel Delivery & Return Hose
    G02874987Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. Remove parking brake cable.
    1. Remove console box. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Console Box.>
    2. Remove parking brake bracket and disconnect parking brake cable from equalizer. < Ref. to DISC & DRUM .>
  9. Remove trunk trim. (Sedan model) < Ref. to REMOVAL , Trunk Trim.>
  10. Remove rear quarter lower trim. (Wagon model)

    < Ref. to WAGON , REMOVAL, Rear Quarter Trim.>

  11. Remove pipe protector.
    Fig 5: Removing Pipe Protector
    G02874988Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  12. Separate quick connector of evaporation pipe.

    < Ref. to REMOVAL , Fuel Delivery, Return and Evaporation Lines.>

    Fig 6: Separating Quick Connector Of Evaporation Pipe
    G02874989Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  13. Remove wheel nuts from rear wheels.
  14. Lift-up the vehicle.
  15. Remove rear wheel.
  16. Remove front side fuel tank cover.
    Fig 7: Removing Front Side Fuel Tank Cover
    G02874990Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  17. Remove rear exhaust pipe and muffler.
    NOTE: To facilitate removal, apply a coat of SUBARU CRC to matching area of rubber cushions in advance.
    1. SUBARU CRC (Part No. 004301003) 
    1. Separate rear exhaust pipe from center exhaust pipe.
      Fig 8: Separating Rear Exhaust Pipe From Center Exhaust Pipe
      G02874991Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    2. Remove left and right rubber cushions.
      CAUTION: Be careful not to pull down muffler.
Chapter Navigation
Return to Chapter: Fuel Tank
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.