2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5L Petrol · ML59 GUE

The Subaru Imprezas MOT record to April 2022 shows a vehicle that was roadworthy at that point but carrying several age and use related advisories rather than a clean bill of health. The maintenance trend is not clearly improving. A completely clean test in 2021 was followed by a 2022 pass with advisories covering front anti-roll bar bushes, a deteriorated inner CV boot, and rear suspension ball joint and bush wear. Combined with the significant 2021 failure, the pattern suggests underlying wear and occasional neglect of basic safety items rather than a stable, well maintained vehicle. The mileage profile is unusual and warrants careful interpretation. The car recorded 66,337 miles in January 2019, 72,195 miles in January 2020, and 76,301 miles in April 2021, indicating roughly 5,800 to 6,000 miles per year over that period. However, the most recent MOT in April 2022 shows 85,981 miles, implying around 9,700 miles were covered in just under twelve months. That is a notable jump for a vehicle averaging closer to 5,000 to 6,000 miles annually over its life. Equally important, there is no recorded MOT entry after April 2022, and the current recorded mileage remains 85,981 miles. If that figure is accurate, the car has effectively stood unused for over four years, raising questions about deterioration from lack of use rather than wear from mileage alone. From a mechanical perspective, the 2021 failure is the most concerning marker. A leaking front brake hose, insecure rear suspension mounting, and ineffective steering lock are not minor cosmetic issues. They point to a period when critical safety systems were either poorly maintained or left in a degraded state. Although the car passed in 2022, the advisories suggest underlying wear was still present rather than fully rectified. A buyer should carefully inspect all brake hoses and lines for age related cracking and seepage, particularly the nearside front hose that previously leaked. The handbrake and steering column locking mechanism should be tested for correct function, and the rear suspension mounting area should be checked for movement, corrosion, or makeshift repairs. The 2022 advisories highlight a car with tired but not yet failed suspension and drivetrain components. The worn front anti-roll bar bushes and rear suspension arm ball joint and bush suggest the car has lived with degraded handling refinement for some time. The severely deteriorated nearside front inner CV boot is a clear indicator of deferred maintenance. A buyer should inspect the entire underside for rust, particularly on subframes, suspension mounting points, and around the rear suspension area flagged in 2021. The CV joint itself should be checked for play or knocking, and a thorough test drive should assess brake feel, steering precision, and any unusual suspension noises. Given the long period with no recent MOT, a fresh inspection and full service are advisable before any significant use.