2006 Ford Focus 2.5L Petrol · PX55 AUA

A dominant theme in this Focus is progressive corrosion that has compromised both structural and suspension elements, as shown by the 2025 MOT where the off‑side rear suspension mounting was judged excessively corroded and the rear wheel bearing was described as rough when rotated. The same test flagged missing dust‑cover protection on both front anti‑roll‑bar ball joints and an inoperative off‑side front headlamp levelling device, indicating a pattern of component wear that extends beyond simple surface rust. Although the most recent test in January 2026 passed, it only recorded an advisory that the under‑body is covered in underseal, suggesting the corrosion issues have not been fully addressed and remain a potential risk. At 108,546 mi the car averages roughly 5,400 mi per year, a relatively low annual mileage for a 20‑year‑old model. Such modest use often points to periods of limited running or intermittent storage, which can exacerbate corrosion on exposed chassis and suspension members when the vehicle sits for extended times. The MOT history shows consistent yearly testing from 2019 onward, with no long gaps, meaning the recorded mileage is likely accurate and the wear observed is more a function of age and exposure than high‑kilometre fatigue. When inspecting the rear suspension, listen for clunking or knocking over bumps and feel for any play in the rear axle; excessive corrosion of the mounting area can lead to weakened load paths and unpredictable handling. The rough rear wheel bearing should manifest as a humming or grinding noise that changes with vehicle speed and may become more pronounced when turning. The missing dust‑cover on the anti‑roll‑bar ball joints can allow grit ingress, so check for any looseness or binding in the front suspension when steering through corners. Tyre wear advisories from 2024 and 2021 suggest the front and rear tyres were close to legal limits, so verify tread depth, sidewall condition and look for uneven wear that could indicate misalignment or suspension issues. The emissions failures in 2024 – excess carbon‑monoxide at idle and after a fast idle – imply the exhaust system may be leaking or the engine management is out of tolerance; a noticeable exhaust smell or a sluggish idle could confirm this. The inoperative near‑side rear parking brake requires a functional test of the hand‑brake lever to ensure it holds the vehicle on a slope. Headlamp aim and levelling faults can cause poor illumination and glare, so confirm that both low‑beam patterns are correctly centred and that the levelling mechanism operates smoothly. Finally, the underseal advisory points to ongoing rust protection work; a visual inspection of the under‑body for flaking, pitting or rust streaks, especially around the rear suspension mounting and coil springs, is essential before committing to purchase.