SUBARU FORESTER (2009)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 837 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
837
Avg Mileage
108,694 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2009 SUBARU FORESTER reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SUBARU brand average of 83%.
At 15 years old, 72% of SUBARU FORESTERs from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 837 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 108,694 miles.
How does the 2009 SUBARU FORESTER compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2009 SUBARU FORESTER has 108,694 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-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 2009 sits between the two at 72%.
How much does a 2009 SUBARU FORESTER cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
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 2009 SUBARU FORESTER
The 2009 SUBARU FORESTER is a family car with a 1994cc diesel engine. 837 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2009, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 108,694 miles at 15 years old, SUBARU FORESTER owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2009 SUBARU FORESTER Fuel Costs
The 1994cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2009 SUBARU FORESTER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% 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 2009 SUBARU FORESTER
At 15 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 2009 SUBARU FORESTER
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2011) 78% pass rate (+6%) from 97,916 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (+2%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (+2%) from 75,715 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2011) 81% pass rate (+9%) from 57,568 tests