2004 Subaru Forester 2.0L Petrol · CE54 EXB

The most recent MOT test for this 2004 Subaru Forester, conducted on 7 August 2023 at 146,502 miles, resulted in a failure with no specific defects recorded. This represents a critical gap in the vehicle’s compliance history, as no subsequent test has been documented since. The absence of any follow-up MOT—particularly given the vehicle’s age and mileage—raises immediate concerns about whether the car has been driven at all since August 2023. Without further testing, there is no evidence to suggest whether the failure was resolved or if the vehicle has remained on the road. The lack of recent MOT history makes it impossible to assess whether critical components like brakes, suspension, or emissions systems have deteriorated or been addressed. The recorded mileage of 146,502 miles over approximately 22 years suggests an average annual distance of around 6,659 miles, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. However, the absence of any MOT entries between August 2023 and the present date—nearly three years—is highly unusual and warrants suspicion. Normally, a vehicle of this age would require an MOT every 12 months, meaning at least two overdue tests should have been completed. This prolonged gap implies either prolonged non-use, deliberate avoidance of testing, or an attempt to conceal the vehicle’s condition. If the car has been driven during this period, the lack of compliance could indicate repeated failures or a deliberate disregard for legal requirements. Given the sparse MOT record, a prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate, thorough inspection of high-wear and high-risk components. The suspension system—particularly coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers—will need scrutiny for excessive wear or corrosion, as these are common failure points in a vehicle of this age. Brake systems, including calipers, pads, discs, and hydraulic lines, should be checked for uneven wear, binding, or fluid leaks, as these are frequently flagged in older Subarus. Structural integrity is also critical; rust penetration in wheel arches, sills, and the subframe should be assessed, as this is a known issue for this model. The absence of any recorded defects in the last test does not negate the need for these checks, as failures could have occurred between tests or been overlooked. Emissions systems, if equipped, should also be inspected for leaks or malfunctioning catalytic converters, as these are common causes of MOT failure in this class of vehicle.