2018 Subaru Forester 2.0L Petrol · PK68 VPC

The 2018 Subaru Forester has passed its most recent MOT on 2025-10-09 with no major failures, though the testers noted front tyres worn close to the legal limit and running unevenly on the edge—a condition that requires immediate attention. The overall maintenance trend is stable but not exemplary; the absence of serious structural or drivetrain advisories suggests no catastrophic neglect, yet the recurring brake and tyre issues indicate basic upkeep has been inconsistent. The last advisory for rear brake discs (2023) and front pads (2023) implies these components may now be approaching their serviceable limits, particularly given the low annual mileage. No advisories or failures in the 2024 or 2025 tests suggest these issues were addressed between tests, but the 2023 pattern of brake wear warrants closer scrutiny. The vehicle’s mileage progression of roughly 4,676 miles per year is unusually low for its age, with gaps between tests averaging around 4,000–5,000 miles. The largest jump occurred between the 2021 (21,100 miles) and 2022 (24,324 miles) tests, covering 3,224 miles in just over a year—a relatively modest increase but still slower than typical usage. The lack of high mileage means consumable wear may have been underestimated; for example, tyres and brake components could be closer to failure than expected given their age. Conversely, the low mileage also suggests the vehicle may have spent extended periods stationary, potentially accelerating issues like suspension corrosion or battery degradation. A buyer should prioritise an inspection of the front tyres, which were already at the legal limit in 2025 and may have deteriorated further since then. The 2023 brake advisories for rear discs and front pads signal these systems should be checked for uneven wear, scoring, or binding calipers—particularly the rear brakes, which were flagged but not failed in subsequent tests. Suspension components, including coil springs, bushes, and struts, should be examined for signs of corrosion or excessive play, especially if the vehicle has spent time off-road or in damp conditions. Given the low mileage, the engine bay and transmission should also be inspected for oil leaks or degraded fluids, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate contamination. Structural integrity, particularly around wheel arches and sills, should be assessed for corrosion, as standing vehicles are prone to rust development.