2015 Ford Focus 2.0L Diesel · AV65 ENE

The most recent DVSA examination on this 2015 Ford Focus, conducted on 6 October 2025, resulted in an initial failure followed by a pass on the same date. While the vehicle ultimately achieved a pass certificate, the failure warrants attention because it indicates that, on the day of test, one or more items did not meet the minimum roadworthiness standard and required rectification before re-presentation. Four advisories were noted at both the failure and subsequent pass: near-side front, off-side front, and off-side rear tyres all worn close to the legal limit and on their edges, a light misting of oil on the off-side rear shock absorber, and items removed from the driver's view prior to test. Comparing the sequence of tests from 2022 through 2025, the pattern suggests a stable but slightly worsening trend, as the 2022 and 2024 tests were recorded with no advisories at all, whereas the 2025 test brought forward multiple wear-related observations. The presence of advisories on tyre edges and a damp shock absorber points to components now reaching the latter portion of their service life. With a recorded mileage of 87,433 over approximately eleven years, this Focus has been driven at an average of around 7,948 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and segment. There are no extended gaps in the MOT record that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, nor any signs of unusually rapid accumulation that might indicate heavy commercial or motorway use. Mechanically, this level of annual mileage is moderate and consistent with mixed urban and suburban driving, which generally produces even wear across consumables rather than extreme stress on any single system. The recorded history does not raise mileage-based red flags, although several items flagged at the latest test are consistent with a car that is now into its second decade of normal service. The advisory regarding oil misting on the off-side rear shock absorber should not be dismissed. Light misting is an early indicator that the internal seal of the damper is beginning to fail, and while the unit has not yet reached the point of fluid leakage that would precipitate an MOT failure, it will progress over the coming months. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the rear suspension when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or uneven surfaces, and observe whether the rear of the car settles or recovers quickly over undulations. A worn shock will also contribute to reduced wet grip and longer stopping distances, so a thorough road test should include firm braking from a measured speed to check for any tail instability. Replacement of the damper in the near future is a sensible budget item. The tyre-related advisories across both front positions and the off-side rear are equally important. Edge wear on the front tyres is frequently symptomatic of incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension components such as track rod ends or wishbone bushes, or a combination of both. On a test drive, pay close attention to steering feel: any vagueness off-centre, a pull to one side under braking, or uneven steering effort may suggest an underlying geometry or bush issue. All four tyres should be inspected for age-related sidewall cracking and perishing, which is common on a vehicle of this vintage regardless of tread depth, and the spare or repair kit should be checked for serviceability. Beyond the advisories, a buyer should also confirm the age and condition of the 12-volt battery, verify that brake discs and pads have sufficient material with no significant lipping, and ensure that the service book records evidence of timely replacement of engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, as calendar-aged fluids degrade even on lower-mileage vehicles.