2005 Subaru Forester 2.0L Petrol · VE55 AEY

The vehicle shows a consistent history of structural corrosion and mechanical wear that has accelerated in recent years. In the most recent test in November 2025 at 179,063 miles, the tester identified multiple critical issues including corroded rear brake pipes and a broken central exhaust mounting and flange. While the record notes that structural rigidity is not yet significantly reduced, the presence of corrosion on the rear sub-frame, integral body structure, and suspension arms has been a recurring theme since 2021. The appearance of a nearside oil leak from the transmission driveshaft seal in the latest inspection suggests a developing mechanical fault that requires close monitoring. The mileage progression is steady for a 21-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 8,500 miles per year. This regular use suggests consistent operation, but the high total mileage places significant strain on rubber components and suspension bushings. Between 2024 and 2025, the vehicle covered over 7,000 miles, during which the front lower ball joint dust covers severely deteriorated and several tyres reached the legal wear limit. The recurring mention of inner-edge wear on multiple tyres indicates a persistent alignment issue or worn suspension that has not been fully addressed. Potential buyers should focus heavily on the state of the rear chassis and sub-frame, as the tester has flagged corrosion in these areas for five consecutive years. The failure of the rear brake pipes due to corrosion is a significant safety-related item that requires immediate attention. Furthermore, the inability to inspect the outer sills during the 2024 test due to plastic covers leaves a hidden risk regarding structural rot. The vehicle is currently in a state where ongoing surface rust and aging suspension components are likely to lead to frequent MOT failures unless proactive maintenance is not undertaken.