2003 Ford Focus 1.8L Diesel · ET53 ABX

The vehicle's recent MOT history shows an inconsistent pattern of compliance, with the most recent test on 18 March 2026 resulting in a pass after a failure six days earlier on 12 March 2026. This sequence of failures and passes suggests a trend of intermittent mechanical issues that require rectification to meet minimum standards. While the 2026 pass indicates the vehicle currently meets the required criteria, the repeated failures in March 2025 and March 2026 show that the vehicle is struggling to pass inspections on the first attempt. The recorded mileage of 67,665 miles is low for a 2003 vehicle, averaging approximately 2,942 miles per year. There are no significant mileage jumps recorded between the 2024, 2025, and 2026 tests, which suggests the vehicle is used sparingly. Low annual mileage can sometimes lead to issues such as seized components or degraded rubber parts due to lack of regular movement, though the specific MOT data provided does not detail any such faults. Because the MOT records for the failures in March 2025 and March 2026 do not specify the exact defects, a physical inspection is necessary to identify the underlying causes of these recent failures. A buyer should specifically examine the braking system for binding calipers or worn discs, the suspension for perished bushes and worn coil springs, and the underside for structural corrosion. Given the age of the vehicle and the pattern of recent failures, checking the condition of all consumables and the integrity of the exhaust system is essential. buying_score: 55 risk_level: Medium.