2004 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · MA54 ADO

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance profile characterized by a trend of deferred repairs and recurring mechanical failures. While it passed its most recent MOT in May 2023 at 71,737 miles, this followed a significant failure just two days prior that revealed a multitude of critical safety defects. The presence of four corroded coil springs, rear wheel bearings with excessive play, and worn ball joints during the 2023 failure suggests that components are only addressed when absolutely necessary to pass the test, rather than through a proactive service schedule. At 22 years of age, the recorded mileage of 71,737 miles is exceptionally low, averaging approximately 3,260 miles per year. However, this low usage often correlates with the degradation of rubber-based components, which is evident in the history. Between 2015 and 2019, the record consistently flags perished tyre walls and deteriorated dust covers, indicating the vehicle likely sits for long periods. The gap in data between May 2023 and today means the vehicle is currently overdue for its annual test, leaving the current state of these mechanical components unknown. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the suspension geometry and braking system. The history shows recurring issues with front ball joints and anti-roll bar linkages, which should be checked for play or perished boots. Given the 2023 report of pitted front brake discs and the corrosion on all coil springs, the entire underbody requires an assessment for structural rust and leaking shock dampeners. Furthermore, the repeated history of exhaust leaks noted in 2019 and 2020 necessitates a close look at the manifold and exhaust piping to ensure no new degradation has occurred since the last recorded.