2009 Subaru Forester 2.0L Diesel · SP09 LWM

The most recent MOT, carried out on 26 January 2022, was a pass but recorded a number of advisories covering the headlamp levelling sensor, rear differential temperature warning, brake‑fluid reservoir level, anti‑roll‑bar bushes and the diesel particulate filter indicator. Compared with the earlier years, where the vehicle repeatedly failed for major faults such as a fault‑reading MIL, electronic stability control and stop‑lamp failures, the trend is moving in a more positive direction – the major failures have been cleared and the car now clears the test, yet a suite of wear‑related advisories persists, indicating that the underlying maintenance programme is still catching up with age‑related deterioration. At 171,245 mi the Forester has logged roughly 10,000 mi per annum over its 17‑year life, a usage pattern that sits squarely within the normal UK average. This level of mileage suggests that the drivetrain, suspension and braking components have been subjected to a moderate amount of wear, but not the extreme high‑mileage abuse that would accelerate premature failure. There are no obvious large mileage gaps that would hint at long periods of storage, so the wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads and fluid should be consistent with the recorded distance rather than being artificially low due to inactivity. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the recurring headlamp levelling devices on both the nearside front and rear, which have been noted as seized and broken on several occasions. Verify that the headlamps are correctly aimed and that the sensor arms move freely; a mis‑aimed lamp will cause uneven illumination and may mask other electrical faults. The anti‑roll‑bar bushes on both the front and rear have been flagged as worn; check for clunking or excessive body roll when negotiating bumps or cornering, and inspect the bushings for cracking or looseness. The rear differential temperature warning and the DPF flashing light point to possible overheating or exhaust‑after‑treatment issues – listen for unusual whine from the rear axle, watch for a lingering exhaust smell, and ensure the DPF regeneration cycle completes without fault codes. The brake‑hydraulic reservoir was reported close to the minimum level and the brake‑fluid warning light illuminated; confirm that the fluid is at the correct level, is clear rather than dark, and that the brake pedal feels firm without a spongy feel, as low fluid can indicate a leak or worn master cylinder seals. Finally, the minor exhaust leaks at the rear back‑box joints should be inspected for rusted or cracked pipe sections, as leaks can raise emissions and increase cabin noise. Beyond the specific MOT items, a thorough age‑related inspection is essential. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related perishing, especially on the nearside rear tyre which was previously noted close to the legal limit; even if tread depth appears adequate, sidewall integrity can deteriorate with time. Check the 12 V battery for sulphation and verify that it holds charge, as a 17‑year‑old vehicle may have spent periods idle. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear that could cause shudder under hard braking, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Look at the suspension coil springs and bushings for any signs of corrosion or sag, particularly around the anti‑roll‑bar mounting points. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil changes, timing‑belt (or timing‑chain) service at the manufacturer‑specified intervals, and that any previous fault codes have been cleared, as these are strong indicators that the previous owner has kept up with calendar‑based maintenance despite the vehicle’s age.