2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5L Petrol · SP09 STZ

The most recent MOT, carried out on 30 March 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, and the preceding twelve‑month period shows a consistent pattern of passes apart from a single failure in January 2025 that, notably, did not list any faults. This suggests that the vehicle’s maintenance regime has been stable and that any issues which may have prompted the 2025 failure were remedied promptly, leaving the car in a road‑worthy state at the time of the latest test. At 105 997 miles on the clock, the 2009 Subaru Impreza averages just over 6 200 miles per year, a usage rate that sits comfortably within the normal range for a vehicle of its age. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage that would point to accelerated wear, nor are there significant gaps that might indicate long periods of inactivity; the mileage progression appears linear, implying a balanced combination of road use and rest that should have allowed routine wear items to be serviced at sensible intervals. Given the clean MOT record and the moderate annual mileage, the buyer should focus on age‑related deterioration rather than mileage‑driven failure. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, as rubber can perish after a decade regardless of tread depth; check the tyre tread for uneven wear that could reveal mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushes. Examine the 12‑volt battery for signs of sulphation, low cranking power or swollen case, and consider a load test, as batteries over fifteen years often lose capacity even with low usage. Verify that the brake discs are free from deep scoring, rust‑pitting or excessive thickness variation, and that the pads have sufficient material; standing for long periods can allow surface rust to bind the calipers, so feel for any pedal pulsation or uneven brake feel during a slow stop. Look at the condition of the suspension components – especially the front lower control arm bushes, rear shock absorbers and coil springs – for any creaking, clunking or excessive play when the car is pushed over bumps, as rubber bushings can harden and lose compliance with age. Finally, request the full service history to confirm that time‑based fluids – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been replaced at the manufacturer‑specified intervals, as fluid degradation can occur even on low‑mileage cars. During a test drive, listen for any abnormal noises from the drivetrain, such as whining from the CV joints or a faint rattle from the timing chain tensioner, and watch for any exhaust smoke that might indicate oil burning or fuel system wear. A thorough visual inspection of the under‑body for corrosion, especially around the rear subframe and exhaust mounts, will also help to gauge how well the vehicle has been protected from the elements during its seventeen‑year life.