2013 Subaru Forester 2.0L Petrol · WR63 NKK

A pattern of progressive rear‑brake and suspension wear dominates the MOT history, with recurring advisories on rear disc condition, thin rear‑outer pad, front‑rack inner joint play and anti‑roll‑bar bush wear, complemented by a wheel‑bearing roughness failure in 2021. The most recent test on 20 October 2025 recorded a clean pass with no defects, indicating that none of those advisories have escalated to a mandatory failure as yet, but the persistence of similar items over several years suggests a gradual degradation that should be monitored closely. At 188 454 miles the vehicle has accumulated roughly 14 500 miles per annum, well above the average for a 2013 model. Such mileage accelerates wear on consumables and load‑bearing components, meaning that brake discs, pads, tyre carcasses and bearing surfaces are likely approaching the end of their service life. The absence of any recorded testing gaps implies regular MOT attendance, yet the high annual mileage reinforces the need for a thorough inspection of wear‑prone parts before committing to purchase. When test‑driving, pay particular attention to the rear braking system: listen for any pulsation or squeal when applying the brakes, feel for vibration through the pedal, and check for uneven pad wear by visual inspection. The front‑rack inner joint advisory may manifest as a loose or vague steering feel, especially when turning at low speed or when encountering bumps; any clunk or excessive play should be investigated. The anti‑roll‑bar bush wear can produce a distinct knock on cornering or over uneven road surfaces, so a careful drive over speed‑bumps and tight corners is advisable. The 2021 wheel‑bearing failure suggests that a humming, grinding or rough rotation of the nearside rear wheel under load could still be present and warrants a spin test on the stand. Tyre condition should be verified, given the 2024 advisory of rear tyre distortion and front tyre inner‑edge wear; look for cupping, sidewall bulges or uneven tread depth that could affect handling and safety. The wiper failures recorded in 2023, although rectified by the latest pass, should be checked for adequate clearance and effective clearing of the windscreen in wet conditions. Finally, a comprehensive visual inspection of the rear brake disc surface for scoring, and measurement of pad thickness, will confirm whether the advisory has progressed to a condition requiring replacement before the next MOT.