2002 Subaru Forester 2.0L Petrol · WP02 TCO

The vehicle presents a stable roadworthiness profile, having achieved clean passes over the last three annual inspections. The most recent test in July 2023 at 196,123 miles resulted in no defects or advisories, indicating that the previous owner maintained the vehicle to a safety and environmental standard. While a single failure occurred in August 2021, the immediate rectification and subsequent two years of clean records suggest a proactive approach to maintenance rather than reactive repairs. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 8,200 miles per year. Between August 2020 and July 2023, the Forester covered 13,765 miles, representing a steady usage pattern of roughly 4,500 miles annually during that period. This suggests the car has not been subjected to high-intensity motorway use, which often preserves rubber components and suspension bushings. However, given that the last recorded MOT was nearly three years ago, the current roadworthiness is technically lapsed, and a fresh inspection is mandatory before any sale to verify the current state of the mechanical components. A physical inspection should focus on the structural integrity of the chassis and sills, as Subaru vehicles from this era are prone to corrosion that the MOT may only catch once it progresses. Despite the clean advisories, the high mileage places significant stress on the drivetrain and suspension geometry, specifically the CV joints and shock absorbers. The buyer should check for signs of fluid leaks around the engine and inspect the brake lines, as the MOT record does not detail internal mechanical health or wear. The gap since the last test also means that consumables like brake pads and tyres must be evaluated for age-related degradation beyond the 2023 data.