2019 Subaru Forester 2.0L Petrol · WU19 LBP

The Subaru Forester has maintained a consistent pass rate across its last five MOT tests, with the most recent in June 2026 at 31,658 miles showing only minor suspension wear—specifically, worn but non-critical bushes in both front lower suspension arms. This indicates a stable mechanical condition, though the recurring nature of the suspension advisories suggests the bushes may have been neglected for some time before being addressed. No serious structural or safety-critical failures have been recorded, and the absence of major defects in earlier tests (2023 and 2022) implies the vehicle has been well cared for in terms of core components, provided the advisories were acted upon promptly. The mileage accumulation is unusually low for a seven-year-old vehicle, averaging just 4,523 miles per year, which may reflect light use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The gaps between tests are standard (annual), but the jump from 13,663 miles in May 2022 to 19,175 miles in May 2023—an increase of 5,512 miles in a year—suggests at least one phase of more active use. The most recent 1,811-mile increase between May 2025 and June 2026 aligns with typical annual mileage, reinforcing the pattern of sporadic but not excessive driving. Such low mileage reduces wear on consumables, but it also means components like suspension bushes and brake discs may have been underutilised, potentially masking latent issues until now. For a prospective buyer, the front suspension bushes—flagged in June 2026—should be the top priority, as their wear could lead to alignment drift or uneven tyre wear if left unchecked. The front brake discs, noted as pitted in May 2025, should be inspected for residual scoring or uneven thickness, though the "not seriously weakened" classification suggests they were likely replaced shortly after. The tyre advisories from 2024, while minor, imply the previous owner may have deferred routine replacements, so a full set of tyres with consistent tread depth and no internal damage would be advisable. Structural integrity appears sound, given the absence of corrosion or frame-related advisories, but a thorough check of the undercarriage for hidden rust—particularly around wheel arches and suspension mounts—is recommended given the vehicle’s age and the potential for moisture retention in off-road models.