2002 Subaru Forester 2.0L Petrol · RF51 GUU

The Subaru Forester presents a stable and consistently clean roadworthiness record through its most recent MOT history. The latest test, conducted on 10 November 2022 at 145,236 miles, passed with zero defects recorded. This outcome mirrors the preceding annual tests from 2019 through 2021, all of which also passed cleanly. The maintenance trend is demonstrably stable, with no recurring faults, no advisories, and no progressive deterioration in any mechanical or structural area across the documented period. The mileage accumulation tells a coherent story for a vehicle of this age. Between November 2019 and November 2022, the odometer advanced from 132,297 to 145,236 miles, representing roughly 12,939 miles over three years, or approximately 4,313 miles annually. This sits below the long-term average of around 6,052 miles per year calculated over the vehicle's full 24-year lifespan, suggesting the car saw lighter use in its most recent years. The gap between the last recorded test in November 2022 and today in June 2026 raises a notable concern. No MOT record exists for over three and a half years, meaning the vehicle's current mechanical and structural condition is entirely unverified by any official inspection. A buyer should approach this Forester with cautious optimism tempered by the absence of recent certification. The clean MOT history through 2022 is encouraging, but the extended lapse since then means critical wear items and structural components demand a thorough in-person inspection. The underbody and sills require close scrutiny for corrosion, a common failure point on older Foresters, particularly around the rear subframe, wheel arches, and jacking points. Suspension bushes, coil springs, and shock absorbers should be checked for deterioration, as these degrade with age regardless of mileage. The braking system, including calipers for binding and disc condition, warrants a road test assessment. Given the vehicle's age, the exhaust system and its emissions performance should also be evaluated, as catalytic converter efficiency can decline over time. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised before committing to this vehicle.