2004 Subaru Forester STI 2.5L Petrol · K33 ROP

The 2026‑06‑15 MOT confirms the 2004 Subaru Forester STI remains roadworthy, with no defects recorded at 103,410 miles. The series of annual tests from 2016 onward shows a stable maintenance record; aside from the 2023 suspension wear notes, each subsequent test has passed without defect, indicating consistent upkeep. At 22 years old, the vehicle averages roughly 4,700 miles per year, a figure that is low for its age and suggests limited use or extended periods of inactivity. Mileage has risen steadily from 71,596 miles in January 2016 to the current 103,410 miles, with the most pronounced increase occurring between 2018 and 2019 and again from 2025 to 2026, while a gap in testing during 2020 may reflect pandemic‑related delays. Recurring faults centre on suspension components: the 2023 test flagged worn anti‑roll bar pins and bushes on both front sides and a worn upper Macpherson strut pin/bush, all classified as minor movement issues. No subsequent test has reported binding brakes, excessive play, or structural corrosion, but the earlier findings imply that suspension bushings and strut mounts should be examined for wear, and the front brakes inspected for any signs of binding or uneven disc wear. A buyer should therefore prioritize a physical inspection of the front suspension geometry, check for any play in the anti‑roll bar and strut mounts, verify brake caliper operation and disc condition, and look for rust on the chassis and wheel arches, as these areas have shown the only documented concerns in the MOT history.