2002 Ford Focus 2.0L Petrol · CE02 AWJ

The most recent MOT test on 2023-11-30 confirms the vehicle remains roadworthy at 54,895 miles, with no defects or advisories recorded. This represents a stable maintenance trend over the past three annual tests, though the single failure in December 2021—just three days before passing—suggests either a minor oversight or a temporary issue resolved without further recurrence. The absence of repeated faults or advisories on suspension bushes, coil springs, binding calipers, or exhaust emissions indicates no obvious pattern of neglect. However, the 2021 failure window warrants closer inspection of the braking system, particularly rear calipers or master cylinder operation, as these are the most common causes of sudden MOT failures on this model. The recorded mileage of 54,895 miles over 24 years equates to approximately 2,287 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. This suggests either very light usage, prolonged periods of inactivity, or potential mileage tampering. The gap between the 2021 failure and subsequent pass—just 10 miles apart—could imply a deliberate adjustment, though the consistency of the remaining tests supports the possibility of genuine low usage. Regardless, the lack of progressive wear on high-mileage components like suspension bushes or brake discs suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy or prolonged service demands. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the braking system, especially rear calipers and hydraulic lines, to confirm there are no hidden issues that caused the 2021 failure. The suspension should be checked for uneven wear on coil springs or degraded bushes, particularly around the rear, where binding has historically been a concern for this model. Structural integrity is also critical—look for corrosion at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as these areas are prone to rust on pre-2010 Focus models. Finally, verify the condition of the exhaust system for leaks or excessive corrosion, as this can lead to failed emissions tests or structural compromise over time. The low mileage makes some components unusually well-preserved, but rust and brake wear may still develop if the vehicle has been stored in harsh conditions.