FORD FOCUS2004 · 1.6L PETROL

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile characterized by a recurring pattern of reactive maintenance rather than preventative care. While it passed its most recent test in March 2024 at 124,701 miles, it failed immediately due to a defective exhaust mounting, a gas leak, and a nearside front tyre below the legal tread limit. This suggests the current owner only addresses faults once they become significant enough to cause an MOT failure. The trend remains stable in terms of neglect, with components like the suspension and exhaust consistently requiring attention across multiple testing cycles. At 22 years old, the recorded mileage of 124,701 miles represents a low average of approximately 5,668 miles per year. This low annual usage often correlates with age-related degradation of rubber components, which is evident in the record. Between January 2022 and 2023, the tester flagged perishing and cracking on the rear tyres, a sign of dry rot rather than tread wear. The presence of a persistent oil leak noted in both 2022 and 2023 indicates that engine seals or gaskets are likely failing over time, despite the low distance driven. Mechanical inspection is required for the front suspension and braking system. The history shows play in the offside front suspension arm ball joint and the nearside anti-roll bar linkage, indicating wear in the steering and stability geometry. Furthermore, reports of inner-edge wear on the nearside front tyre in 2022 suggest an alignment issue or worn shock absorbers that have not been definitively resolved. A buyer must verify the exhaust system for further structural corrosion, as the 2024 failure confirmed a leak and defective mounting that could quickly lead to structural failure on vehicles of this age.