2009 Subaru Outback 2.5L Petrol · SM59 KTF

The most recent MOT (15 April 2026) was a pass, but it highlighted a cluster of corrosion‑related items: sub‑frame mounting areas, rear suspension arms, anti‑roll‑bar linkages and a rear brake pipe are all noted as corroded or worn, though none were judged to be unsafe yet. Front brake discs show surface wear, and the front lower anti‑roll‑bar ball‑joint dust cover is severely deteriorated. Across the last three years the same corrosion theme recurs. In 2025 and 2024 the MOTs recorded sub‑frame and suspension component corrosion, and in 2025 a windscreen chip was also noted. The only serious safety failure was a brake‑wear failure in early 2023, which appears to have been remedied before the 2024‑2026 tests. The pattern suggests a steady, ongoing rust issue rather than a rapidly worsening condition, but the cumulative effect could become critical if left unchecked. At 170,843 mi for a 2009 model the mileage averages about 10 k mi per year – typical for a vehicle of this age. The figure does not alone indicate heavy abuse, but combined with the persistent rust it hints that the car may have experienced periods of both regular use and extended idle time, allowing corrosion to develop on structural parts. For a buyer the priority checks are: Visual inspection of the sub‑frame, rear suspension arms and anti‑roll‑bar linkages for rust depth and any signs of movement or looseness. Close examination of the front lower anti‑roll‑bar ball‑joint dust cover and surrounding bushings.