2013 Subaru Forester 2.0L Diesel · WA13 OCC

Most recent MOT (2025‑12‑17 – PASS) The test passed, but the examiner recorded a number of defects that are all related to suspension joints and tyre condition. The off‑side front lower suspension arm ball joint shows slight play, and both front lower ball‑joint dust covers are severely deteriorated. The rear tyre on the off‑side is already showing cracking or perishing, and the rear upper suspension arm ball joints on both sides have slight play. These are all advisory items (category 5) that do not stop the car from being road‑legal, but they point to wear on key steering and suspension components. Recurring mechanical pattern Across the four‑year MOT record the same groups of parts keep re‑appearing: Front lower suspension arm ball‑joint play and heavily worn dust covers (noted in 2023, 2024 and 2025). Rear upper suspension arm ball‑joint play on both sides (first noted in 2023 and present in every subsequent test). Tyre condition on the off‑side rear wheel deteriorating from “slightly damaged/cracking” in 2023 to “slightly damaged/cracking or perishing” in 2025. Occasional steering‑rack inner joint play (2024) and anti‑roll‑bar bush wear (2024). The pattern suggests that the vehicle’s suspension bushings and ball‑joint dust covers are not being refreshed as part of regular maintenance, and the rear tyre is approaching the end of its useful life. Trend – stable but not improving The number of advisory items has remained roughly constant rather than increasing dramatically, and the car has continued to pass MOT despite the defects.