2006 Subaru Forester 2.0L Petrol · WU06 OFM

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile with a clear trend of reactive rather than proactive maintenance. While it passed its most recent test on 22 May 2026 at 231,877 miles, it failed just one day prior with a long list of significant defects. The history shows that the owner only addresses the minimum requirements to obtain a certificate, evidenced by the recurring nature of steering rack play, brake corrosion, and lighting failures that persist across multiple years without being fully rectified until a failure occurs. At 231,877 miles over twenty years, this Forester has covered a high average of approximately 11,600 miles per year, which is consistent with typical annual usage for its age. However, the rapid accumulation of nearly 9,000 miles between the May 2025 and May 2026 tests indicates it is still in heavy use despite its high-mile status. This high mileage places immense strain on the drivetrain and suspension, which is reflected in the persistent degradation of the steering rack inner joints and suspension components. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the chassis integrity and braking system. A critical concern is the structural corrosion noted on the inner sill which caused a failure in May 2025; the buyer should verify if this has been professionally repaired or merely masked with grease. Furthermore, the rear brake pipes have been flagged as corroded for three consecutive years, suggesting a high risk of future fluid leaks. The persistent play in the steering rack inner joints, which has been documented since 2024, indicates significant wear that affects steering precision and will eventually require an expensive replacement.