2008 Subaru Forester 2.5L Petrol · BK08 FVC

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a concerning decline in structural integrity. While it passed the most November 2025 test at 105,137 miles, the history reveals a critical failure in November 2024 due to excessive corrosion on the nearside and offside rear suspension component mounting areas. This rust was identified as significantly reducing structural strength. Although the car passed the subsequent test months later, the tester flagged offside front play in the steering rack inner joints, indicating that mechanical wear is beginning to manifest despite repairs. At 105,137 miles, this 18-year-old Subaru has averaged only approximately 5,800 miles per year. This low usage often correlates with age-related degradation of rubber components and fluids rather than wear from distance. The mileage progression is consistent between late 2023 and 2025, with roughly 15,500 miles covered over two years. However, the low mileage has not prevented the progression of structural corrosion noted in the records, which remains the primary concern for the continued viability of the chassis. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the underside to assess the extent of the rust that caused the 2024 failure. The 2024 record specifically noted that certain rear components were undersealed, preventing a full inspection, which carries a high risk of hidden rot. Particular attention should be paid to the steering rack inner joints mentioned in the most recent 2025 test. Additionally, the previous history of front oil leaks and exhaust leaks from 2023 suggests the engine and exhaust system require close monitoring to ensure these issues have not worsened or remained unresolved.