2005 Subaru Forester 2.5L Petrol · DF55 LDU

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT following a pass on 29 May 2026 at 101,003 miles. While the most recent result shows no defects, the maintenance trend appears reactive rather than preventative. The May 2026 test followed a failure just one week earlier at 100,991 miles, where the tester flagged multiple critical issues including worn front brake pads, failing tyres, leaking rear shock absorbers, and an inoperative engine malfunction indicator light. This pattern suggests the owner addressed significant mechanical and safety faults only when prompted by a failed inspection. The vehicle has covered 101,003 miles over its 21-year lifespan, averaging approximately 4,810 miles per year. This is relatively low annual mileage for a vehicle of this age. The data shows a consistent upward trend in mileage, with 6,387 miles recorded between the October 2023 test and the September 2024 test, and another 6,387 miles between September 2024 and May 2026. The consistency in these intervals suggests regular, albeit infrequent, usage. A prospective buyer should focus heavily on the suspension and drivetrain components. The record shows a recurring issue with CV boots, with the nearside front inner boot flagged in October 2023 and both inner prop shaft joints failing in September 2024. Although the shock absorber leaks were noted as resolved in the May 2026 pass, the previous advisory regarding perished rear suspension rubbers in September 2024 indicates that rubber components are reaching the end of their service life. Braking and tyre maintenance also require scrutiny. The repeated failures for thin brake pads and tyres worn to the legal limit in both 2024 and 2026 suggest that consumable items are often neglected until they become safety defects. Before purchasing, a physical inspection of the current brake pad thickness, tyre tread depth, and the integrity of all CV boots and suspension bushings is essential to ensure the recent repairs have been completed to a high standard.