2004 Ford Focus 1.8L Diesel · YP54 AOA

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows a recent trend of worsening mechanical attention following a period of stability. While the most recent test on 7 July 2026 at 181,820 miles resulted in a pass, the vehicle failed earlier that same day due to a deteriorated offside front upper anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover and incorrect headlamp aim. This follows a clean pass in July 2025 at 164,213 miles, suggesting that minor component failures are beginning to surface more frequently as the vehicle ages. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 8,265 miles per year over its 22-year lifespan. The record shows steady usage, with the most significant recent increase occurring between July 2025 and July 2026, where the odometer climbed by 17,597 miles. This higher annual usage in the last year compared to previous intervals may accelerate the wear on suspension components and braking systems. A prospective buyer should focus heavily on the underside and suspension geometry. The June 2023 test at 136,095 miles revealed significant issues, including corrosion on both nearside rear and offside front suspension arms, as well as corroded brake pipes. Although these were noted as not seriously weakened at that time, the recurring nature of corrosion and the recent failure of an anti-roll bar dust cover indicate that the chassis and suspension components require a thorough physical inspection for structural integrity and advanced oxidation. Further attention is required regarding the braking and lighting systems. The history shows a pattern of headlamp aim issues in both 2025 and 2026, and a parking brake efficiency failure in May 2019. Given the 2023 report of a noisy offside front wheel bearing and various exhaust and drive shaft issues, a buyer must verify that all CV boots, exhaust mounting points, and brake lines have been adequately addressed and are not subject to ongoing degradation.