2022 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0L Petrol · AY68 ETA

Suspension component wear is the primary mechanical concern for this vehicle, as evidenced by the most recent MOT passed on 29 May 2024 which flagged both nearside and offside front lower suspension arm bushes as worn. While these advisories noted that the wear had not yet resulted in excessive movement, they represent a transition from the clean record seen in the 2022 and 2023 tests to a state of emerging wear in the steering and suspension linkages. The previous failure in May 2023 related specifically to the rear fog lamp assembly and switch, a minor electrical/lighting issue that was resolved to achieve the subsequent pass. The vehicle has covered 91,382 miles over its eight-year lifespan, averaging approximately 11,423 miles per year. This usage pattern is consistent with typical UK annual mileage for a passenger vehicle of this age. Mechanically, this level of accumulation suggests that components subject to regular friction and load, such as the suspension bushes and drivetrain consumables, are entering a phase of life where wear becomes more frequent in the MOT testing cycle. There are no significant gaps in the testing history to suggest the vehicle has been off the road for extended periods, indicating a regular operational cycle. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the front end of the vehicle during a test drive to monitor the condition of the suspension arms flagged in the 2024 advisory. Listen for any rhythmic knocking, clunking, or creaking sounds when driving over uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, as these are common symptoms of degraded suspension bushes. Additionally, pay attention to the steering feel; worn bushes can sometimes manifest as a slight wander or a lack of precision in the steering response, particularly when navigating corners or during low-speed manoeuvres. Beyond the suspension, the history of the rear fog lamp failure suggests that while the electrical systems have been functional, the lighting cluster should be verified for secure fitment and correct illumination. Ensure that all exterior lighting, including the rear fog lamp, operates consistently without flickering. Given the mileage and the recent advisories, a thorough inspection of the front suspension geometry and the integrity of the rubber components in the lower arms is necessary to determine if the reported wear has progressed beyond the advisory stage.