2016 Subaru Impreza 2.0L Petrol · LP51 RKX

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 September 2024, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the current safety and emissions standards. Over the past six years the MOT record shows a generally stable maintenance pattern: three consecutive clean passes (2020‑2021‑2023‑2024), a single advisory for a noisy exhaust in 2019, an advisory about an off‑side rear tyre nail in 2018, and a minor rear‑windscreen wiper blade fault together with a registration‑plate lamp failure in 2022. The recurrence of only low‑severity items suggests that any emerging issues have been addressed promptly and that the overall condition has neither deteriorated nor shown a concerning upward trend. At 71,897 miles recorded in September 2026 the Subaru Impreza averages roughly 7,200 miles per year, which is typical for a ten‑year‑old family hatchback. The mileage progression appears linear with no large gaps that would imply prolonged periods of inactivity, nor any spikes that would indicate unusually heavy use. This moderate annual usage means that wear on consumables such as brake pads, clutch, and suspension components should be commensurate with age rather than excessive mileage, but it also implies the vehicle has spent a fair amount of time on the road where corrosion and fluid degradation can become relevant. When you inspect the car, give particular attention to the items flagged in the MOT history. Verify that the rear‑windscreen wiper blade now operates smoothly and that the blade edge is not cracked or hardened; a defective blade can lead to reduced rear visibility in wet weather and may indicate a failing wiper motor if it struggles to clear the glass. Check that all registration‑plate lamps illuminate correctly, confirming the bulb, wiring, and connector integrity, as a faulty lamp can be a symptom of corroded contacts or a failing bulb socket. Listen for any exhaust rattles or resonances that could be a lingering effect of the 2019 noisy‑exhaust advisory; excessive vibration may point to a cracked manifold, loose heat shield, or deteriorating muffler baffles. Finally, examine the off‑side rear tyre for any signs of the previously reported nail repair – look for uneven tread wear, bulges, or repaired patches that could compromise sidewall integrity. Beyond the MOT‑specific items, conduct a thorough age‑related inspection. Inspect all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot, or hardening, especially given the vehicle’s ten‑year age; even if tread depth is acceptable, old rubber can fail suddenly. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and check for any signs of sulfation or leaking electrolyte, as batteries tend to lose capacity after five to seven years of service. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, scoring, or glazing, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding, which can occur when a car sits for extended periods. Look at the suspension bushings, ball joints, and coil springs for any looseness, creaking, or excessive play when applying pressure on each corner; worn bushes often manifest as clunking noises over bumps. Finally, verify that the service book shows regular oil, filter, and coolant changes at the manufacturer‑recommended intervals, and consider a fresh oil change and coolant flush if the last documented service exceeds twelve months, as fluid degradation can affect engine longevity and cooling efficiency.