2015 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · BH04 AMY

The most recent MOT test on 2026-05-20 resulted in a failure due to a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alongside minor defects in the side repeaters and persistent tyre advisories. This failure marks a notable deviation from the vehicle’s previous MOT history, which predominantly showed clean passes or only minor non-roadworthiness issues, particularly in the years 2021 through 2024. While the TPMS failure is a major concern, the presence of repeated tyre-related advisories—including offside rear tyre cracking and wear close to the legal limit—suggests a pattern of tyre degradation that warrants immediate attention. The advisories from prior tests, such as the offside front tyre being worn on the edge and containing a nail, indicate that the vehicle has undergone significant tyre usage beyond typical expectations, potentially accelerating wear on other components like the suspension or steering systems due to uneven load distribution. The recorded mileage of 77,261 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 7,024 miles per year, which is within the range expected for a car of this age and class. However, the MOT history reveals a few anomalies that could imply either inconsistent maintenance or more aggressive driving conditions. The absence of MOT failures in the last three years suggests that the vehicle has generally been well-maintained, but the sudden TPMS failure and the recurring tyre advisories hint at either a lack of recent tyre replacement or exposure to conditions that accelerate tyre wear, such as potholes, rough roads, or frequent stops and starts. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 MOTs, with no defects recorded, could indicate a period of reduced usage or more conservative driving, but the subsequent failures suggest that this may not have been sustained. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the tyres, as their condition directly impacts roadworthiness and safety. The offside rear tyre showing cracking or perishing is a clear warning sign that it should be replaced immediately, as such damage compromises grip, increases the risk of sudden failure, and may also affect the vehicle’s handling dynamics. The front tyres, particularly the offside, being worn close to the legal limit and containing a nail further underscores the need for a full tyre replacement, ideally with new tyres that meet or exceed the original specification (215/50/17). During a test drive, listen for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressure. Additionally, check for excessive vibration, pulling to one side, or a loss of steering response, as these symptoms can signal underlying problems such as worn suspension bushes, binding calipers, or misaligned wheels. Beyond the tyres, the TPMS failure is a major red flag that requires immediate attention. The system monitors tyre pressure and temperature, and its malfunction could lead to unsafe driving conditions, particularly in cold weather when tyres lose pressure more rapidly. A professional inspection should confirm whether the issue is a faulty sensor, wiring, or a more complex electronic problem. If the TPMS is beyond repair, a replacement system may be necessary, which could incur significant costs. The vehicle’s suspension and steering systems should also be scrutinised for signs of wear, such as clunks or rattles during cornering or over bumps, which could indicate failing coil springs, worn control arms, or damaged suspension bushes. The 12V battery and electrical systems should be checked for signs of corrosion on terminals, as prolonged standing or infrequent use can lead to battery drain or poor electrical performance. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, consider a comprehensive fluid check, including the engine oil, brake fluid, differential fluid, and coolant, as these fluids degrade over time and should be serviced according to Ford’s recommended intervals, even if the vehicle has not been driven extensively. The presence of a service history book would be invaluable in confirming whether routine maintenance, such as oil changes and brake inspections, has been carried out.