2011 Subaru Outback 3.6L Petrol · EY60 EET

The Subaru Outback passed its most recent MOT in November 2024, but the record shows a concerning mechanical trend. While the critical suspension bush failures noted in the November 2023 test were resolved by the 2024 check, the vehicle now presents with a severely deteriorated front driveshaft CV boot and a persistent oil leak. The CV boot failure is a significant deterioration from the previous year and risks contaminating the CV joint, leading to costly failure. The oil leak, noted as 'not excessive' in both 2023 and 2024, appears to be a chronic issue requiring diagnosis of its source, such as a seal or gasket. The recorded mileage of 201,996 miles is high for a 15-year-old vehicle, aligning with the stated average of over 13,000 miles annually. The MOT history confirms consistent use, with tests conducted annually from 2022 through 2024. A notable gap exists between the October 2022 test at 181,438 miles and the November 2023 test at 193,832 miles, suggesting the vehicle may have been off the road or minimally used for a period before accumulating the final 8,164 miles to the November 2024 test. The high overall mileage indicates accelerated wear on consumables and core drivetrain components is expected. A buyer must prioritise a hands-on inspection of the front suspension and drivetrain. The severely deteriorated nearside front outer CV boot must be examined immediately; if the joint is already contaminated or noisy, replacement is necessary. The chronic oil leak requires a thorough investigation to identify its exact origin, as leaks from the engine or gearbox can indicate failing seals or more serious issues. Despite the 2024 pass, the history of worn suspension bushes warrants a detailed physical check of all front suspension arm bushes and anti-roll bar linkages for any play or deterioration. The previous electrical faults, including a persistent TPS warning light and lamp failures, also suggest a check of the vehicle's onboard diagnostics and lighting systems is prudent. Given the high mileage and the specific history, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly recommended.