2014 Subaru Forester 2.0L Diesel · CE64 EWS

The 2014 Subaru Forester is currently roadworthy following its most recent MOT on 2025-09-19 at 111,749 miles. While the vehicle passed with only minor defects—specifically a non-functioning offside registration plate lamp and deteriorated dust covers on the offside front suspension ball joints—the maintenance trend shows a concerning pattern of recurring suspension and brake issues. The fact that the same suspension components were flagged in both the 2024 and 2025 tests suggests that these problems are persistent rather than isolated, indicating either ongoing wear or inadequate repair work in the past. The mileage progression shows a consistent annual increase of approximately 9,000 to 10,000 miles, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. However, the gap between the 2023 and 2024 MOTs is notable—just two days apart at the same mileage (89,469 and 102,569 miles respectively)—which may suggest a deliberate attempt to delay the test or that the vehicle was driven extensively between inspections. The 2023 failure included a missing exhaust shield and registration lamp issues, while the 2024 failure revealed significant rear brake wear and a worn wishbone bush, both of which are safety-critical components. The fact that the same rear brake components were flagged again in 2025 indicates that the wear may not have been fully addressed. Buyers should conduct a thorough inspection of the rear suspension and brake systems, particularly the offside front ball joint and dust cover condition, as these were repeatedly flagged. The deteriorated dust cover is a warning sign of potential contamination and accelerated wear. The rear brake pads and discs should be measured for thickness and wear, as the 2024 failure noted pads below the 1.5 mm legal minimum. Additionally, the missing exhaust shield should be verified for structural integrity and replaced if necessary to eliminate fire risk. While the vehicle is currently compliant, the history suggests that ongoing maintenance is essential to ensure continued safety and reliability.