SUBARU FORESTR Buying Guide & Reliability (2006-2016)

The SUBARU FORESTR is a versatile vehicle that has been popular among UK drivers from its introduction in 2006 until its last model year in 2016. With a total of seven registration plates recorded, this model has established a solid presence in the automotive market.

Last updated September 08, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

SUBARU FORESTR Overview

The SUBARU FORESTR is a versatile vehicle that has been popular among UK drivers from its introduction in 2006 until its last model year in 2016. With a total of seven registration plates recorded, this model has established a solid presence in the automotive market.

In terms of performance, the SUBARU FORESTR boasts an impressive MOT pass rate of 85.7%. This statistic indicates a high level of reliability and satisfaction among owners. However, it is important to note that common failures have been reported, particularly in the suspension category, which accounts for three of the total failures. Additionally, there are two other unspecified issues that have been noted.

The fuel type distribution for the SUBARU FORESTR shows a predominance of diesel engines, with six out of the seven vehicles registered using this fuel type. Only one vehicle is petrol-powered, highlighting the model's appeal for those seeking fuel efficiency and performance typically associated with diesel engines.

Colour preferences among owners lean towards blue, with four vehicles registered in this hue. White follows with two registrations, while silver accounts for one. This colour distribution may reflect personal tastes and regional trends.

When examining the year distribution, the majority of the vehicles are from 2015, with five registrations. There is one vehicle each from 2006 and 2016, indicating a steady interest in the model over its production years.

All seven vehicles are currently taxed, suggesting that owners are maintaining their vehicles in compliance with UK regulations. The average annual mileage for the SUBARU FORESTR stands at 7,235 miles, which is indicative of typical usage patterns.

Data accuracy is subject to change, and while every effort has been made to ensure the information is correct, it is advisable to verify details with official sources.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The Subaru Forester, produced between 2006 and 2016, has established a reputation for reliability among its owners. With a total of seven registration plates recorded, this model has undergone 56 MOT tests, achieving an impressive pass rate of 85.7%. This statistic indicates that the majority of Foresters are well-maintained and meet the necessary safety and environmental standards.

When examining the common reasons for MOT failures, suspension issues were the most prevalent, accounting for three of the failures. Additionally, two failures fell into the 'other' category, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Owners should be aware of these common issues, as addressing them proactively can enhance the vehicle's reliability.

The fuel type distribution for the Subaru Forester shows a strong preference for diesel, with six out of the seven vehicles using this fuel type, while only one is petrol. This preference may reflect the model's efficiency and performance characteristics, appealing to drivers who prioritise fuel economy.

In terms of colour distribution, blue is the most common colour, with four vehicles recorded in this shade, followed by white with two, and silver with one. This variety allows potential buyers to choose a Forester that suits their aesthetic preferences.

Yearly distribution indicates that the majority of these vehicles are from 2015, with five registrations, while one each is from 2006 and 2016. This suggests that the 2015 model may be particularly popular among buyers.

All seven vehicles are currently taxed, indicating that they are roadworthy and legally compliant. The data presented here is based on available records and may not reflect the complete picture of the Subaru Forester's reliability and MOT performance.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering a used Subaru Forester, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure you make a sound investment. With a registration count of seven plates, this model has been popular among UK drivers, particularly from the years 2006 to 2016.

One of the first aspects to check is the MOT pass rate, which stands at an impressive 85.7%. This statistic indicates that the majority of Subaru Foresters have successfully passed their MOT tests, suggesting a generally reliable vehicle. However, it is essential to be aware of common failures. For this model, suspension issues have been reported in three instances, while two other failures fall into miscellaneous categories.

Fuel type is another consideration, with the majority of available models being diesel (six out of seven), and only one petrol variant. Depending on your driving habits and preferences, this could significantly influence your choice. Additionally, the average annual mileage for these vehicles is approximately 7,235 miles, which is relatively low and may indicate that the cars have been well cared for.

When it comes to colour, the most common options are blue (four vehicles), followed by white (two) and silver (one). This variety allows potential buyers to select a model that suits their aesthetic preferences.

Lastly, ensure that the vehicle is taxed, as all seven registered Subaru Foresters are currently taxed. This is a crucial step to avoid any unexpected costs after purchase.

In summary, when buying a used Subaru Forester, check the MOT history, common failure points, fuel type, mileage, colour, and tax status. Always verify the data with the seller and consider obtaining a professional inspection to ensure accuracy.

Disclaimer: The statistics provided are based on available data and may not reflect the current market situation. Always conduct thorough research and verification before making a purchase.

Running Costs and Specifications

The Subaru Forester, produced between 2006 and 2016, is a versatile SUV that appeals to a wide range of drivers. With a total of seven registration plates recorded, this model has a strong presence on UK roads. The average annual mileage for the Forester stands at 7,235 miles, which is relatively moderate for an SUV.

In terms of running costs, the Forester boasts a respectable MOT pass rate of 85.7%. However, it is important to note that common failures have been reported, particularly in the suspension category, which accounts for three of the total failures. Additionally, there are two other common failure categories that potential buyers should be aware of.

The fuel type distribution for the Subaru Forester indicates a preference for diesel, with six out of the seven models being diesel-powered, while only one is petrol. This may influence running costs, as diesel vehicles typically offer better fuel efficiency for longer journeys.

Colour preferences for the Forester show a predominance of blue, with four vehicles in this shade, followed by white with two, and silver with one. This variety allows buyers to choose a model that suits their aesthetic preferences.

When considering tax status, all seven registered vehicles are currently taxed, which is a positive indicator for prospective buyers. The distribution of models by year shows that the majority (five) were registered in 2015, with one each from 2006 and 2016.

In summary, the Subaru Forester offers a blend of reliability and practicality, making it a solid choice for those in the market for a used SUV. However, potential buyers should remain aware of the common issues reported and consider the implications for running costs.

Disclaimer: The data presented is based on available records and may not reflect the most current information. Always verify details with official sources before making a purchase.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the Subaru Forester, there are several alternative models that may also meet your needs. Each of these vehicles offers unique features and specifications that could be appealing depending on your preferences.

One option to consider is the Honda CR-V. Known for its reliability and spacious interior, the CR-V has a strong reputation in the compact SUV market. It typically boasts a higher MOT pass rate compared to the Forester, making it a solid choice for those prioritising dependability.

Another alternative is the Toyota RAV4. This model is renowned for its fuel efficiency and robust build quality. Like the Forester, the RAV4 is available in both petrol and diesel variants, catering to a range of driving preferences.

The Nissan Qashqai is also worth considering. It offers a stylish design and a comfortable ride, making it a popular choice among families. The Qashqai has a competitive MOT pass rate and is available in various trims, allowing for a degree of customisation.

For those who prefer a more rugged option, the Land Rover Discovery Sport could be an appealing alternative. While it may come at a higher price point, its off-road capabilities and luxurious interior make it a standout choice for adventure seekers.

When evaluating these alternatives, it's essential to consider factors such as annual mileage, fuel type, and maintenance history. The Subaru Forester has an average annual mileage of 7,235 miles, which may be comparable to your driving habits.

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific requirements and preferences. Always ensure to conduct thorough research and consider test-driving multiple models to find the right fit for you.

Note: The data provided is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current market conditions. Always verify details with a trusted source.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What years was the Subaru Forester produced?

The Subaru Forester was produced between 2006 and 2016, with models available from 2006, 2015, and 2016.

How many Subaru Foresters are currently registered in the UK?

There are currently seven registered Subaru Foresters in the UK.

What is the MOT pass rate for the Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester has an impressive MOT pass rate of 85.7%, indicating a strong reliability record among its owners.

What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

Common failures for the Subaru Forester include issues related to suspension, which accounted for three failures, and other miscellaneous problems, which contributed to two additional failures.

What fuel types are available for the Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester is predominantly available in diesel, with six diesel models registered compared to one petrol model.

What colours are most common for the Subaru Forester?

The most common colours for the Subaru Forester are blue, with four registrations, followed by white with two, and silver with one.

What is the average annual mileage for the Subaru Forester?

The average annual mileage for the Subaru Forester is approximately 7,235 miles, reflecting typical usage patterns for this model.

Is the Subaru Forester taxed?

All seven registered Subaru Foresters in the UK are currently taxed.

Disclaimer: The data presented here is based on current registrations and MOT statistics and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please consult official sources.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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