2010 Subaru Legacy 2.0L Diesel · KP10 PFG

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2025-07-02, passing with only a minor headlamp dimmer issue. However, the maintenance trend is worsening — the same vehicle failed the prior test just one day earlier under identical mileage, with multiple lighting faults that suggest either persistent electrical faults or incomplete repairs. The failure record indicates a pattern of recurring lamp failures, particularly on the offside, which points to wiring or connector issues rather than isolated bulb replacements. The fact that these faults reappeared so soon after a pass implies the previous repair was either superficial or not fully resolved. Mileage progression shows a steady, typical usage rate for a 16-year-old vehicle, with 129,673 miles recorded in 2025 after 121,244 miles in 2024 and 113,588 miles in 2023 — roughly 8,000 miles per year. There are no significant gaps or sudden spikes in mileage, which suggests consistent use rather than long-term storage or heavy commercial activity. The vehicle’s age and mileage align with average wear expectations, though the 2023 record flagged two rear tyres nearing legal limit with edge cracking and castellated wear — a sign of uneven load distribution or alignment issues that may have persisted through subsequent years. Structural and mechanical concerns from the 2023 test remain relevant: heavily corroded exhaust flange, play in both steering rack inner joints, and worn rear tyres indicate potential long-term neglect of suspension and exhaust integrity. The corrosion at the exhaust flange is not merely cosmetic — it can lead to leaks, emissions failures, or even structural compromise if left unaddressed. The steering rack play, while not immediately dangerous, suggests worn suspension bushes or tie rod ends that may affect handling and safety over time. A buyer should inspect the exhaust system for leaks or perforations, test steering response for play or looseness, and verify tyre wear patterns for alignment issues. Lighting faults, especially the repeated failure of offside position and stop lamps, should be investigated thoroughly — these are not trivial. Faulty lamps can compromise visibility and safety, and their recurrence suggests a deeper electrical fault or poor repair quality. The nearside rear tyre wear in 2023, combined with the offside rear tyre wear, indicates possible alignment or suspension imbalance that may still be present. A pre-purchase inspection should include a full brake system check, suspension bushing condition, and a thorough electrical system diagnostic to confirm all lamps and indicators function correctly under load.