2016 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · AX16 KBV

The most recent MOT, carried out on 17 December 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently satisfies the statutory safety and emissions criteria. The MOT record shows a single failure in December 2021 for a major rear‑brake imbalance, but all subsequent tests – 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 – have been clean, suggesting that the fault was remedied and that the overall maintenance trend has been stable to improving since that corrective work. With a recorded 47 871 miles on a 2016 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4 800 miles per year, which is well below the UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, rather than heavy, high‑stress operation. Consequently, wear on high‑frequency components such as clutch, gearbox synchronisers and tyre tread will be less advanced than mileage alone would suggest, but components that deteriorate with time – rubber, seals and corrosion‑prone parts – may be more advanced than the odometer implies. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the rear braking system that previously failed the balance test. Verify that the brake pads on both sides are of similar thickness, that the discs show no excessive scoring or rust, and that the pedal feel is firm without any pulsation or pulling to one side when applied. A test‑drive should be used to listen for any uneven squeal, feel for any pull to one rear wheel under braking, and to confirm that the handbrake holds firmly without excessive travel. While the front brakes are not flagged, they should still be examined for pad wear, disc surface condition and any signs of fluid leakage from the caliper pistons, as uneven wear can develop over time. Given the vehicle’s age and modest mileage, the buyer should also conduct age‑related checks. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, and confirm that the tread depth is within legal limits; tyres older than six years may need replacement regardless of wear. Examine the 12 V battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage, as prolonged periods of standing can reduce capacity. Verify that all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – are topped up and free from sludge, and consider a full service flush if the last documented service predates 2022. Finally, look for any signs of rust on the chassis, suspension bushes, and under‑body panels, and ensure that the exhaust system is free of cracks or excessive corrosion, as these are common time‑based deterioration points on a lightly used ten‑year‑old model.