2015 Subaru XV 2.0L Petrol · RK65 MXL

The 2015 Subaru XV remains roadworthy following its most recent MOT on 3 June 2026 at 75,838 miles, yet the maintenance trend is demonstrably worsening. After three consecutive clean passes between 2022 and 2024, the vehicle has now accumulated four separate advisories across the last two tests. The June 2026 test flagged perished rear bushes on both front lower suspension arms and play in the offside steering rack inner joint. These are not consumable items. Their emergence after years of clean records suggests deferred maintenance or a sudden deterioration in front-end components. Covering roughly 6,894 miles per year, the mileage profile is unremarkable for an eleven-year-old vehicle. However, the jump from 59,363 miles in June 2024 to 68,218 miles in June 2025 represents an 8,855-mile year, followed by a further 7,620 miles in the twelve months to June 2026. This acceleration in recent use may explain the sudden appearance of mechanical wear. The June 2025 test already flagged perished suspension arm rear bushes and front brake pads wearing thin, yet neither was rectified before the 2026 retest. The perished bushes carried over unchanged, and the steering rack joint developed measurable play within a single year. This pattern points to a reactive rather than preventative maintenance approach. A buyer should prioritise inspecting the front suspension and steering geometry in person. Both lower suspension arm rear bushes remain perished, which over time will accelerate uneven tyre wear and compromise handling precision. The play in the offside steering rack inner joint warrants a close check for clunking during low-speed turns and uneven steering effort. Front brake pads were noted as wearing thin in June 2025, so disc condition and remaining pad material need verifying. Given the vehicle's age and the recent onset of front-end wear, a thorough inspection of subframe and sill corrosion is also advisable, as Subaru XV models of this era can be susceptible to structural corrosion if underseal has degraded.