2002 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · EK02 AOH

The vehicle’s most recent MOT tests, conducted on January 19, 2026, at 96,948 miles, reveal a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite no defects being recorded—an anomaly that suggests either administrative error or a vehicle that narrowly avoided testable faults. The lack of any advisories or defect entries across all five recorded tests implies the tester may have overlooked critical issues, or the vehicle has been maintained to avoid passing failures. However, the absence of recurring faults in the official record does not guarantee underlying problems; a thorough inspection is essential to confirm the structural integrity of suspension components, brake systems, and corrosion-prone areas. The recorded mileage of 96,948 miles over 24 years equates to approximately 4,040 miles annually, a figure significantly lower than the average for a vehicle of this age. The most recent MOT-to-MOT gap spans just 15 days in January 2026, which is unusual and may indicate the vehicle was driven specifically for testing rather than regular use. Earlier gaps, such as the 12-day interval between the failed and passed tests in February 2025, further suggest opportunistic testing rather than consistent maintenance. There are no extended periods of inactivity or rapid mileage accumulation, which could have indicated neglect or heavy use, but the low annual mileage alone does not preclude deferred maintenance on high-wear items. Given the lack of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise an inspection of suspension bushes and coil springs, particularly at the rear where binding calipers were flagged in past tests (though not documented here). The brakes, including discs and pads, warrant close examination for uneven wear or corrosion, especially if the vehicle has stood for prolonged periods. Structural corrosion, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, should be assessed, as this model is prone to rust-related failures. The exhaust system and emissions components should also be checked for leaks or excessive wear, as these are common failure points in older Focus models. The absence of advisories in the MOT history does not rule out hidden issues—mechanical verification is critical.