2021 Subaru XV 1.6L Petrol · YS21 WRX

The 2026-05-11 MOT is the latest and shows the vehicle passed, but with two specific defects recorded: worn nearside and offside front suspension arm pin or bushings—classified as minor (5.3.4(a)(i)), meaning no excessive movement was detected, but wear is present. This is the first defect noted across three MOTs, with the previous two (2025-06-02 and 2024-02-19) passing with no recorded issues. The appearance of suspension wear in the most recent test suggests a developing trend, though it remains at the minor threshold. There is no evidence of rapid deterioration yet, but the emergence of this issue after 12 months without defects indicates the suspension components are now entering the stage where wear becomes likely. At 53,087 miles over approximately 5 years, the annual average is about 10,617 miles—within typical usage. This suggests regular use rather than long periods of inactivity, and the mileage alone does not indicate excessive or abusive driving. However, suspension wear at this point is not uncommon and can be influenced by road conditions, driving style, and maintenance history—not all of which are visible in the MOT record. The absence of prior defects is reassuring, but the latest findings mean the front suspension is now a known area of attention. Suspension arm pins and bushes are wear items, and while the current condition is not unsafe, they will likely need replacement soon—especially if the vehicle is driven aggressively or on rough surfaces. A buyer should inspect the front suspension in person: look for visible corrosion, cracks in rubber bushes, and play in the arms when jacked (with wheels off the ground and suspension fully loaded).