2009 Subaru Forester 2.0L Petrol · BF59 OAU

The 2009 Subaru Forester, with 85,224 recorded miles, passed its most recent MOT on 2024-08-09, but the maintenance trend is concerning. The vehicle has shown a pattern of recurring issues, particularly with the suspension and braking systems. In the August 2024 test, the offside front suspension arm ball joint had slight play, and the nearside rear tyre was noted as slightly damaged and perishing, with a nail in the tyre. Additionally, the sub-frame was corroded, and the rear shock absorbers had a reduced damping effect. The nearside rear brake was stiff to turn, possibly due to parking brake bind. These issues, along with the engine MIL indicating a malfunction, suggest that the vehicle's condition is deteriorating, and the previous owner may have deferred necessary repairs. The mileage pattern indicates that the vehicle has been driven relatively lightly, accumulating about 5,013 miles per year over 17 years. This low mileage can be a positive sign, suggesting less wear on consumables, but it also means the vehicle may have spent long periods standing, which can lead to corrosion and other issues. Between the 2023-07-21 and 2024-08-09 tests, the mileage increased from 79,058 to 85,224, a jump of 6,166 miles. This moderate increase is consistent with the overall low usage pattern, but the significant number of defects in the 2024 tests suggests that the vehicle's condition has not improved despite the relatively low mileage. A potential buyer should carefully inspect the suspension and braking systems, as these areas have repeatedly shown issues. The suspension components, including the ball joints and bushes, have been flagged multiple times for excessive wear and play. The rear brakes, particularly the nearside, have shown signs of binding and worn pads, which could indicate a need for a thorough brake system overhaul. Additionally, the sub-frame and other structural components are showing signs of corrosion, which, while not yet seriously weakened, could pose a risk if left unattended. It would be prudent to have a detailed inspection by a qualified mechanic to assess the extent of these issues and any potential underlying problems.