2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · CE59 BVT

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 15 January 2026, though the overall maintenance trend suggests a reactive approach to vehicle upkeep. The history reveals a pattern of failures related to basic consumables and lighting, with several major defects regarding the exhaust system and tyre integrity being addressed only at the point of testing. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the recurring nature of these faults indicates that preventative maintenance may have been overlooked in favour of minimum compliance. With a recorded mileage of 89,779 miles over seventeen years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 5,281 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the national average for a vehicle of this vintage. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and gearbox, it often introduces risks associated with prolonged periods of inactivity. Such usage patterns can lead to the degradation of rubber components and the accumulation of corrosion in areas that would otherwise be kept clear by regular heat cycles and road spray. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the chassis and suspension, specifically the rear trailing arm bushes which were a point of failure in early 2024. During a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks from the rear axle when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed cornering. The recurring issues with the exhaust mounts and insecure heatshields suggest a vulnerability to corrosion; inspect the underside for excessive rust and listen for metallic rattling or vibrations during acceleration. Furthermore, the history of inner tyre wear and subsequent cuts indicates a potential misalignment of the front wheels, which should be verified by inspecting the current tread depth across the full width of the tyres. Given the low annual mileage and the persistent advisory for an oil leak, a thorough physical inspection of the engine bay is essential to determine if the leak has worsened or been remediated. Check for oil residue around the gaskets and verify that the engine oil is clean and at the correct level. Additionally, you must inspect the tyre sidewalls for perishing or hairline cracking, which is common in low-mileage cars where tyres age out before they wear out. Finally, check the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting and ensure the calipers are not binding, as these are common symptoms of a vehicle that has spent significant time stationary.