2014 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · AF64 OCV

The 2014 Ford Focus received its latest MOT on 2025-10-17, which passed with only a minor issue related to excessive windscreen tinting that did not impair visibility, leaving no critical or major defects. Reviewing the preceding MOT history reveals a pattern of minor failures and advisories, with the most recent failures occurring in 2021—both involving the front drive shaft constant velocity (CV) boot and a deteriorated suspension ball joint dust cover. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2021, the presence of recurring advisories—such as the play in the steering rack inner joints noted in 2024—suggests underlying wear that may require closer attention over time. The absence of recent major defects in the last three years indicates a stable maintenance trend, but the historical failures highlight areas where the vehicle’s suspension, drivetrain, and steering systems have experienced wear, warranting proactive inspection. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 133,424 miles for a 12-year-old car represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 11,119 miles per year, which is typical for its age and likely reflects a mix of regular driving and periods of inactivity. Lower mileage could imply lighter use or extended periods of standing, while higher mileage might suggest more aggressive or frequent driving, which accelerates wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and fluids, as well as components such as suspension bushes and drivetrain seals. The significant gap between the 2021 failures and the 2024 advisory suggests that the vehicle may have been driven more heavily in the intervening years, potentially leading to accelerated deterioration in the CV joint boot, suspension ball joints, and steering components. As a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front drive shaft CV joint and its boot, which failed in 2021 and may have been partially repaired or overlooked. Look for signs of excessive play in the steering wheel, particularly at low speeds or when cornering, and listen for unusual noises from the front axle area, such as clunking or grinding when accelerating or braking. The deteriorated suspension ball joint dust cover also indicates wear in the lower front suspension arm, which could lead to binding or uneven ride quality if not addressed. Test the vehicle for uneven tyre wear, which may signal suspension or alignment issues, and check for fluid leaks around the CV joint housing or under the front wheels. Additionally, inspect the steering rack for excessive play or stiffness, which could be symptomatic of worn inner joints or seals. Beyond the mechanical checks, consider a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s structural integrity, particularly if it has been parked for extended periods, as standing corrosion—especially around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and undercarriage—can compromise long-term reliability. Verify the condition of the tyres, paying close attention to sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure over time. Check the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion, as older vehicles are more susceptible to battery failure, particularly if the alternator output has degraded. Finally, since the vehicle is aged, ensure that all fluids—oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and not showing signs of degradation, such as dark or burnt odours or sludge buildup. If possible, review the service history to confirm that scheduled maintenance, such as brake pad replacement, suspension component servicing, and fluid top-ups, has been conducted according to Ford’s recommended intervals. A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic would be advisable to confirm the absence of hidden issues and to address the known wear patterns before purchase.