2021 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · BU64 DAN

The 1.5-litre diesel Focus is one of the more economical family hatchbacks on offer, with official figures suggesting around 60-65 mpg on a long motorway run and 50-55 mpg in mixed driving. Real-world fuel economy for diesel Focus owners typically falls between 45 and 60 mpg depending on journey type. As a Euro 6 AP compliant diesel, this vehicle remains exempt from charges in Clean Air Zones such as the London ULEZ, Birmingham, and Bath, which is a significant benefit for buyers in urban areas.

Annual road tax (VED) for this Focus sits in a relatively low bracket for a diesel car of this age, typically around £170-£190 per year depending on the exact list price. Insurance group ratings place the Focus 1.5 diesel in group 15-17 out of 50, meaning premiums for an average 40-year-old driver should fall in the £500-£700 region. Routine maintenance such as oil changes, brake fluid, and filters is generally inexpensive for a Focus, with typical service costs of £150-£250 at a Ford dealer or independent specialist.

Taking all running costs into account — fuel at current diesel prices, road tax, insurance, and routine servicing — owners of similar 1.5 diesel Focuses typically report annual running costs of £2,200-£2,800 for average mileage drivers.

The most recent MOT test flagged brake-related advisories on all four corners — front brake discs and pads both sides, plus rear brake discs both sides. These are not yet failures but indicate wear that will likely require attention within the next 6-12 months of driving. When inspecting the vehicle, measure the brake disc thickness with appropriate tools (or ask a garage to do so) and assess pad material remaining. The 2025 test noted front and rear tyres worn close to the legal limit, so check current tyre tread depth and brand; mismatched or budget tyres could indicate deferred maintenance.

For a 1.5-litre diesel Focus at this mileage, common model weak points worth checking include the clutch (around 48,000 miles is often when wear becomes noticeable on the manual variant), the EGR valve, and the diesel particulate filter for signs of short-journey abuse. Listen for any unusual diesel rattle on cold start, which can indicate timing chain stretch on higher-mileage examples. Also inspect the rear suspension bushes and anti-roll bar links, as these are known wear items on the Focus Mk3 and align with the top MOT failure reason listed for the model (anti-roll bar).

Finally, check all electrical systems including the infotainment screen (SYNC 3 issues have been reported on earlier units), air conditioning operation, and ensure all warning lights extinguish promptly after ignition. A thorough road test should include checking the steering for clonking over speed humps, which is a common Focus complaint.