2001 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · MK51 AUE
2001 Ford Focus (1.6L, petrol). First registered 01/09/2001. Recorded mileage 78,223 miles. MOT valid until 09/06/2027. Taxed until 01/09/2026.
- Make & Model
- FORD FOCUS
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Manchester & Merseyside
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 09/06/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/09/2026)
- Recorded Mileage
- 78,223 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 2001
- Engine
- 1596cc
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
MK51 AUE Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 20/05/2026
- 78,223 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 3 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring bodywork & corrosion items (3 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MK51 AUE Mileage History
- 27/06/202376,659 mi
- 27/06/202376,659 mi
- 11/06/202477,300 mi+641 mi
- 16/05/202577,971 mi+671 mi
- 20/05/202678,223 mi+252 mi
Average of roughly 540 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
MK51 AUE MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 Ford Focus (MK51 AUE) between June 2023 and May 2026.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 20 May 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Bodywork (3 issues), Windscreen (1 issue), Steering (1 issue), Suspension (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 5 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A rare, low-mileage example of an early Focus, but proceed with caution regarding rust. While mechanically sound and well-preserved in terms of usage, the emerging body corrosion is a significant long-term concern.
Given the very low mileage, this car may appeal to those looking for a clean, older example of the Focus. However, you should negotiate the price based on the corrosion noted in the May 2026 MOT. Corrosion in the integral body structure and sills can become expensive to weld and repair if it progresses from an advisory to a failure.
Check the service history for evidence of regular oil changes, as low-mileage cars that sit for long periods can suffer from perished seals. Ensure the power steering system is functioning smoothly, as a fluid leak was noted as an advisory in 2024. Verify that all suspension work, including the replacement of the fractured coil springs and anti-roll bar linkages seen in 2020 and 2021, was carried out by a reputable garage.
The 1.6L petrol engine is relatively economical for its era, though it will not match modern fuel efficiency standards. Expect moderate fuel costs and a standard insurance group for a small family hatchback.
Maintenance costs are generally low for this model due to the abundance of affordable spare parts in the UK. However, the age of the vehicle means rubber components and suspension bushings are likely to require periodic replacement. Estimated annual running costs, including tax, insurance, and basic maintenance, are likely to be modest.
The primary area of inspection must be the underside and sills. The May 2026 MOT specifically highlighted corrosion on the nearside front, nearside rear inner, and offside rear inner integral body structures. Use a torch to inspect these areas for bubbling paint or visible rust holes.
Additionally, check the power steering pipe for signs of seepage, following the 2024 advisory. Inspect the front suspension bushings and ball joints, as these have been recurring themes in the MOT history (2020, 2021, and 2025). Finally, check the condition of the fuel pipes, as corrosion was noted in 2018; ensure these have been treated or replaced to avoid leaks.
This 2001 black Ford Focus 1.6 petrol has covered only 78,223 miles over 25 years, which is exceptionally low for its age. The MOT history shows a vehicle that has been kept in roadworthy condition, though it has suffered from typical age-related wear such as broken coil springs and suspension play. The most pressing concern is the recent 2026 MOT advisories regarding corrosion in the sills and body structure.
The early Ford Focus is generally regarded as a robust and handling-focused hatchback, though it is prone to rust in the sills and wheel arches in the UK climate.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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