2016 Ford Focus 1.0L Petrol · AF66 WGG

The 2016 Ford Focus passed its most recent DVSA MOT test on 5 November 2025, although two advisories were recorded for slight damage, cracking, or perishing on both rear tyres. Reviewing the broader history, the vehicle has demonstrated a consistent pattern of passing its annual roadworthiness checks without any outright failures since a single Dangerous failure in September 2021 for both front tyres being below the 1.6mm tread depth requirement. The maintenance trajectory is broadly stable, with no structural, braking, or lighting defects recorded across eight examinations. However, there is a recurring pattern of tyre-related advisories, appearing in 2020, 2022, and 2025, alongside two separate advisories in 2023 and 2024 concerning an oil leak from the differential or gearbox seal. These do not indicate a worsening condition, but they do suggest certain wear items are being monitored rather than actively resolved. With approximately 74,790 miles accumulated over a ten-year period, this Focus averages around 7,479 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and segment. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage history that would suggest prolonged standing, nor are there any sharp spikes indicating excessive high-mileage use. This steady accumulation implies normal wear progression on consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and clutch components, and the vehicle is unlikely to have suffered the accelerated corrosion or seized caliper issues that frequently affect cars left unused for extended periods. At ten years old, however, attention should still be directed towards age-related degradation of components that deteriorate with calendar time regardless of mileage. The differential seal advisories from 2023 and 2024 warrant close attention during a physical inspection. Gearbox oil leaks, even when classed as not excessive, tend to worsen progressively and can lead to insufficient lubrication of the differential or gearbox internals if neglected. On a test drive, listen for any whining or humming from the drivetrain that changes with vehicle speed, and inspect the underside of the car for fresh oil staining around the gearbox and differential housing. It would be prudent to confirm whether the seals have been replaced since the advisories were issued, and to check the gearbox oil level. Left unresolved, such leaks can ultimately lead to internal wear and costly repair, so budgeting for the rectification of this issue is advisable. The recurring tyre advisories, culminating in the 2025 observation of cracking or perishing on the rear tyres, highlight the importance of inspecting all four tyres for sidewall condition rather than simply measuring tread depth. Rubber compounds deteriorate with age, and a ten-year-old vehicle is particularly susceptible to sidewall perishing, which can compromise structural strength even where tread remains legal. Examine the tyres closely for hairline cracks, and verify the production date stamps on the sidewalls to confirm they are not excessively old. Beyond the items flagged by the DVSA, a prospective buyer should also verify the condition of the 12V battery, which typically requires replacement around the six to eight year mark, confirm the service history with evidence of regular oil and filter changes at appropriate intervals, and check the brake discs for any lipping or corrosion given the moderate annual mileage. Brake fluid should be tested for moisture content, and the coolant system inspected for any signs of degradation, as both fluids are subject to calendar-based servicing intervals regardless of distance covered.