2007 Ford Focus 1.8L Petrol · CA57 AEC

The vehicle shows a concerning downward trend in mechanical reliability, culminating in a significant failure in November 2021. While the car maintained a clean record between 2015 and 2020, the most recent recorded test at 64,691 miles indicates serious engine and suspension issues. The tester flagged excessive dense blue smoke during acceleration and a serious fluid leak from the offside rear shock absorber. These faults suggest potential engine oil consumption or internal wear alongside failing damping components. The mileage profile indicates very light usage for a 2007 vehicle, averaging approximately 3,405 miles per year. Between the 2013 test at 39,726 miles and the 2021 failure at 64,691 miles, the vehicle covered roughly 25,000 miles over eight years. This low annual mileage often implies the car has spent extended periods stationary, which can lead to perished rubber components, seized calipers, or degraded fluids. The lack of any MOT data recorded after November 2021 is a significant red flag, as the vehicle is now nearly five years overdue for a fresh inspection relative to the current date. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection of the engine to address the blue smoke reported in the last test, as this often points to worn piston rings or valve stem seals. The suspension requires immediate attention, specifically checking all shock absorbers and bushes for leaks or play. Given the history of tyre wear issues in 2010, 2012, and 2014, the current condition of the tyres and wheel bearings should also be verified. Because the vehicle has not been tested since 2021, an immediate professional assessment of the exhaust system and emissions is essential to determine if the car is even legal to drive.