2003 Subaru Impreza 2.0L Petrol · FP03 USU

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance history shows a trend of developing component wear as the car ages. The most recent test conducted in September 2021 at 110,734 miles identified oil misting on both rear shock absorbers and a minor exhaust leak. While the vehicle passed this test, the presence of a persistent engine management light dating back to 2003 suggests a long-standing electronic or sensor fault that has not been addressed by previous owners. The mileage profile is notably low for a 23-year-old Subaru, averaging approximately 4,800 miles per year. Data shows consistent usage patterns between 2017 and 2021, with the car covering roughly 34,000 miles in four years. However, there is a significant gap in the records between the September 2021 test and the current date in June 2026. This five-year lapse without recorded MOT data increases the risk of rubber component degradation, seized calipers, and fluid corrosion, which often affect vehicles that sit stationary for extended periods. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension system, as the record previously flagged worn anti-roll bar linkages and now leaking rear shocks. The exhaust system noted in 2021 should be checked for structural corrosion or manifold fractures that may have worsened. Given the thin front brake pads reported in 2020 and the worn tyres noted in 2019, the entire braking system and rubber require immediate evaluation for uneven wear or cracking. The age of the vehicle also necessitates a check for structural rust on the sills and arches, as these are common failure points for this era of Impreza not always captured in basic MOT advisories.