2002 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · CU02 BFA

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a concerning pattern of immediate failures followed by successful passes. The most recent test on 7 May 2025 at 66,627 miles resulted in a failure with no recorded defects, suggesting a mechanical issue was rectified immediately before the re-test. This trend mirrors previous years, where the car consistently fails within two to five miles of a scheduled test, indicating an owner who only addresses faults when compelled by legal testing rather than performing proactive preventative maintenance. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 2,776 miles per year. Between May 2023 and May 2024, the car covered 9,151 miles, whereas it covered only 7,788 miles in the following twelve-month period. While low mileage generally reduces wear on the drivetrain and engine components, it often leads to the degradation of rubber-based parts and brake components due to lack of use. The data shows consistent annual testing with short intervals between tests, such as the 2024 failure occurring only two days after the initial test. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the suspension and braking system, as low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from seized brake calipers and perished suspension bushes. The age of the Ford Focus necessitates a close look for structural corrosion on the rear arches, sills, and subframe, which are common failure points for this generation. Because the MOT record shows recurring failures without specific defect descriptions, it is vital to check for fluid leaks and perished tyre sidewalls that may have been overlooked or temporarily repaired during the recent re-tests.