2018 Subaru Impreza 1.6L Petrol · FE68 OJF

The Subaru Impreza has maintained a clean MOT record in its most recent test, with the June 2025 inspection at 49,621 miles showing no defects whatsoever. This suggests the vehicle has been well maintained since the last advisory was addressed—specifically, the rear brake pads flagged in October 2024 at 43,997 miles. The absence of further brake-related advisories or failures in the intervening period indicates that the previous owner acted promptly to rectify the thin pads. However, the earlier history reveals a pattern of tyre and brake wear advisories, particularly between 2022 and 2024, which suggests that while the car is mechanically sound now, it has required consistent attention to consumables. The most recent test’s clean bill is encouraging, but the recurring nature of the advisories implies that future buyers should verify whether the work was completed to DVSA standards, rather than just meeting the minimum legal threshold. The mileage accumulation of roughly 6,203 miles per year aligns closely with the vehicle’s age, suggesting either moderate usage or periods of inactivity. The gaps between tests—particularly the 11-month span between October 2024 (43,997 miles) and June 2025 (49,621 miles)—could indicate a temporary reduction in mileage or a delay in scheduling the MOT. Earlier mileage jumps, such as the 11,923 miles covered between October 2023 (31,529 miles) and October 2024 (43,997 miles), may have accelerated wear on components like brakes and tyres, explaining the advisories during that period. The lack of major defects in earlier clean tests (2021 and 2025) reinforces that the car’s core systems—suspension, steering, and structural integrity—have not deteriorated beyond expected wear. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect in person are the braking system and tyre condition. The repeated advisories for thin brake pads (front in 2022, rear in 2024) suggest that while the issue was addressed, there may have been inconsistent pad quality or uneven wear—potential signs of binding calipers or warped discs. A thorough check of the brake hardware, including pad thickness, disc condition, and fluid levels, is essential. Tyres remain another high-priority item; the heavy cracking noted on all four in 2022, despite only the nearside rear being flagged in 2023, implies past neglect or exposure to harsh conditions. Even if the current set appears serviceable, verifying their age and tread depth is non-negotiable. Beyond these, the absence of advisories related to suspension bushes, coil springs, or structural corrosion in recent tests is a positive indicator, though a close examination of the undercarriage for hidden rust or worn components would be prudent given the car’s age.