2002 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · BD02 LCF

A 24-year-old Ford Focus presenting five consecutive MOT passes, the most recent recorded on 5 August 2026 with no defects, demonstrates an unbroken pattern of roadworthiness at the test level. Across the documented tests from 2022 through 2026, the only items flagged were advisories issued in August 2022 relating to corrosion on both rear coil springs and on the central rear anti-roll bar, with no advisories recorded in the three subsequent annual tests. The absence of fresh advisory items in the later passes suggests the rear suspension components flagged in 2022 have not deteriorated to a level re-noted by the tester, although it is worth noting that examiners only record what they observe during a test rather than carrying out a full structural survey. There are no recorded failures, no mileage-related inhibitor defects, and no emissions failures in the available history. The recorded odometer reading of 142,940 miles against a 2002 registration equates to an annual accumulation of approximately 5,956 miles, which is low for a vehicle of this age. The MOT mileage progression between consecutive tests is consistent and gradual, with no sudden jumps or extended periods off the road that would suggest long-term storage. Lower-than-average annual mileage on a vehicle of this vintage typically translates to reduced wear on major drivetrain components such as the clutch, gearbox internals and engine bearings, but it can also mean certain components age through corrosion or material degradation rather than mechanical use, particularly underbody and suspension items exposed to road salt and moisture. For a prospective buyer, the principal area of attention is the rear suspension, which was the only section of the vehicle to receive advisories in the recorded history. The 2022 advisories concerned corrosion on both rear coil springs and the central rear anti-roll bar, components that are common corrosion points on Mk1 Focus models of this age due to their position within the wheel arches and exposure to winter road treatment. On a physical inspection, look closely at the rear springs for visible flaking, section loss or cracking, and check the anti-roll bar drop links and bushes for perished rubber or excessive movement. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear over uneven surfaces, particularly over speed humps and potholes, and pay attention to any vagueness or wandering from the rear axle that could indicate weakened spring rate or compromised anti-roll bar geometry. Given the age of the vehicle, it is also prudent to carry out a thorough underside examination even though the MOT record itself does not flag structural corrosion, as DVSA testers are not required to remove trim, undertrays or wheel arch liners to fully assess hidden areas. With a 24-year-old Focus, particular attention should be paid to the front subframe, rear axle mounting points, brake pipes along their full length, and the exhaust system from the manifold rearward, all of which are susceptible to age-related corrosion regardless of mileage. During the test drive, check for any pulling under braking, sponginess in the brake pedal, or judder that could indicate corroded or warped front discs, and verify that the clutch operates smoothly without slipping under load, given that low annual mileage can sometimes coincide with a clutch that has aged through standing rather than wear. A borescope inspection of the brake pipes and a careful check for any oil seepage from the engine or gearbox would be sensible precautions on a vehicle of this vintage.