SUBARU FORESTER X (2012)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 30 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,047
£171/month
MOT Pass Rate
80%
Good
Road Tax
£315
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1995cc Petrol
Solid Option
80% pass rate, £2047/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~36 mpg
Based on 1995cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 14 years old, 80% of SUBARU FORESTER Xs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 30 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 88,900 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
88,900
Average miles
103,600
Expected for age
The average 2012 SUBARU FORESTER X has 88,900 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 103,600 miles for a 14-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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About the 2012 SUBARU FORESTER X
The 2012 SUBARU FORESTER X is a family car with a 1995cc petrol engine. 30 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 88,900 miles at 14 years old, SUBARU FORESTER X owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 SUBARU FORESTER X Fuel Costs
The 1995cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 SUBARU FORESTER X?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,047 (£171/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £315 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.
Buying a Used 2012 SUBARU FORESTER X
At 14 years old, the SUBARU FORESTER X 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. Note: with only 30 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2012 SUBARU FORESTER X's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 14 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Medium riskWith an average of 89k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2012 SUBARU FORESTER X stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SUBARU FORESTER X(2012) | 80% | £1327 | £315 | Grp 18-32 | £2047 |
| FORD FOCUS(2013) | 78% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£220 |
| NISSAN QASHQAI(2013) | 72% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£220 |
| MERCEDES C(2012) | 79% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £2017-£30 |
| MINI MINI(2010) | 80% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1677-£370 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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MERCEDES C
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