2009 Subaru Forester 2.0L Diesel · GK59 WTJ

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance trend indicates a shift from clean operation to emerging mechanical wear. The most recent test in October 2025 at 121,269 miles introduced several advisories that were not present in previous years. Specifically, the tester identified slight play in both front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints and multiple tyres reaching the legal limit. While the vehicle passed, the appearance of suspension-related faults alongside a non-excessive front oil leak suggests that components are now requiring proactive attention. The mileage pattern is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 7,133 miles per year over seventeen years. Between March 2021 and March 2022, the car covered roughly 8,000 miles with a clean record, suggesting a period of stable maintenance. However, the gap of 6,866 miles recorded between July 2024 and October 2025 shows a slight increase in annual usage. This steady accumulation suggests the vehicle is being used regularly for daily commuting, which often correlates with the degradation of rubber components and seals as seen in the latest MOT report. A buyer should conduct a close inspection of the front suspension to assess the extent of the anti-roll bar linkage play, as worn joints can lead to knocking and uneven handling. The front oil leak requires a physical check to determine if it is a simple valve cover gasket or a more significant rear main crank seal failure. Given the advisories for three tyres worn on the edges or near the limit, a wheel alignment check is necessary to ensure the suspension geometry is not incorrectly set. There are no recorded structural corrosion or brake issues in the history, but the age of the vehicle means checking for chassis rust remains a priority during an in-person inspection.