2019 Subaru Forester 2.0L Petrol · PY19 VVM

The vehicle maintains a valid roadworthiness certificate, but the maintenance trend is worsening. The most recent test on 23 February 2026 at 74,853 miles recorded worn front suspension arm bushes on both sides. This development contrasts sharply with the completely clean certificates issued in February 2025 and February 2023. The emergence of these front-end wear items indicates the previous keeper deferred routine chassis maintenance until the components reached the advisory threshold. The underlying structural integrity and braking systems show no signs of failure, keeping the Subaru legally roadworthy, yet the suspension wear requires prompt attention to prevent accelerated tyre degradation and compromised handling. The recorded distance covers approximately 10,693 miles per annum, which aligns with standard usage for a seven-year-old estate. The mileage progression demonstrates consistent annual accumulation without suspicious gaps or sudden jumps. The vehicle covered 11,741 miles between February 2022 and February 2023, followed by 12,757 miles over the next twelve months. Ownership then added 12,748 miles before the February 2024 test, 12,748 miles before February 2025, and finally 9,243 miles leading to the February 2026 inspection. This steady cadence indicates regular road use rather than prolonged stationary periods, which typically preserves seals and lubricants. The consistent annual figures also explain the gradual onset of wear on rubber suspension components, as constant road vibration naturally degrades polyurethane and rubber mounts over time. A prospective buyer must prioritise a hands-on inspection of the front suspension geometry and anti-roll bar linkages. The February 2024 test already flagged worn rear anti-roll bar bushes, and the subsequent front arm bush wear confirms a systematic degradation of the chassis rubber. You should check for play in the lower control arm ball joints and measure the remaining thickness of the front brake discs, as worn suspension bushes often cause uneven pad contact and premature disc scoring. The tester did not record any exhaust leaks or emission failures, yet the age of the catalytic converter warrants a cold-start inspection for unusual rattling. Verify the condition of the constant velocity joint boots on both front axles, as compromised rubber allows grease to escape and invites abrasive road debris into the drivetrain. Addressing the front suspension bushes immediately will restore precise steering response and prevent unnecessary wear on the rear axle components.