2004 Subaru Imprezia 2.0L Petrol · T187 AGR

The vehicle is currently unroadworthy following a failure in the 11 May 2026 test. While the car maintained a clean record for several consecutive years, the most recent inspection indicates a sharp decline in mechanical and structural condition. The failure centered on high exhaust carbon monoxide levels at both idle and fast idle, suggesting potential engine combustion issues or sensor failures that require immediate attention. This marks a significant shift from the stable maintenance trend observed in the previous three years. At 27 years old, the recorded mileage of 125,556 miles is remarkably low, averaging approximately 4,650 miles per year. The data shows very consistent usage between 2022 and 2026, with the vehicle covering only 1,847 miles over that four-year period. This low-frequency use often leads to age-related degradation of rubber components and fluid breakdown rather than mechanical wear from distance, which aligns with the appearance of specific issues noted in the MOT history. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear geometry and structural integrity. The 2025 advisory regarding rear tyres being out of shape has progressed into a failure in the 2026 test for uneven inner edge wear, which typically points to incorrect alignment, worn suspension bushes, or collapsed control arms. Furthermore, the tester flagged slight corrosion on the rear subframe. This area must be physically inspected to ensure the rust has not progressed to a structural failure point. The emission failure also necessitates a diagnostic check to determine if the carbon monoxide levels stem from a faulty oxygen sensor, head gasket, or a failing catalytic converter.