SUBARU FORESTER (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 905 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
80%
Total Tests (2024)
905
Avg Mileage
108,470 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2008 SUBARU FORESTER reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 16 years old, 80% of SUBARU FORESTERs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 905 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 108,470 miles.
How does the 2008 SUBARU FORESTER compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 SUBARU FORESTER has 108,470 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a SUBARU FORESTER?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 71%. The 2008 sits between the two at 80%.
How much does a 2008 SUBARU FORESTER cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SUBARU FORESTER by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 88% | 73 | 55,047 mi |
| 2020 | 89% | 117 | 56,363 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 968 | 40,774 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 1,617 | 49,495 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 1,501 | 59,999 mi |
| 2016 | 84% | 2,034 | 68,939 mi |
| 2015 | 83% | 1,719 | 75,172 mi |
| 2014 | 81% | 2,046 | 85,284 mi |
| 2013 | 78% | 1,244 | 95,454 mi |
| 2012 | 75% | 518 | 104,981 mi |
| 2011 | 78% | 1,406 | 110,401 mi |
| 2010 | 73% | 1,393 | 109,597 mi |
| 2009 | 72% | 837 | 108,694 mi |
| 2008 | 80% | 905 | 108,470 mi |
| 2007 | 75% | 1,559 | 109,753 mi |
| 2006 | 75% | 1,646 | 117,944 mi |
| 2005 | 74% | 1,750 | 122,626 mi |
| 2004 | 75% | 1,456 | 125,021 mi |
| 2003 | 71% | 1,132 | 133,554 mi |
| 2002 | 76% | 465 | 125,771 mi |
| 2001 | 72% | 391 | 122,762 mi |
| 2000 | 72% | 315 | 124,647 mi |
| 1999 | 77% | 344 | 125,516 mi |
| 1998 | 74% | 242 | 118,976 mi |
| 1997 | 64% | 44 | 134,428 mi |
Checking a specific SUBARU FORESTER?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 SUBARU FORESTER
The 2008 SUBARU FORESTER is a large car with a 2450cc petrol engine. 905 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 108,470 miles at 16 years old, SUBARU FORESTER owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 SUBARU FORESTER Fuel Costs
The 2450cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2008 SUBARU FORESTER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 80% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SUBARU FORESTER Reliability Trend
Newer SUBARU FORESTERs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 SUBARU FORESTER
At 16 years old, the SUBARU FORESTER is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 92%.
Alternatives to the 2008 SUBARU FORESTER
The SUBARU FORESTER is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol large cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- AUDI A3 (2010) 77% pass rate (-3%) from 50,328 tests
- RENAULT CLIO (2010) 69% pass rate (-11%) from 47,483 tests
- LAND ROVER FREELANDER (2010) 79% pass rate (-1%) from 27,204 tests
- HONDA CR-V (2007) 74% pass rate (-6%) from 26,436 tests