2018 Ford Focus 1.0L Petrol · CE68 NCC

The most recent MOT test on 2025-09-26 confirms the vehicle remains roadworthy, though with critical wear items requiring immediate attention. The trend over the past three tests shows a deterioration in brake pads and tyres, with all four tyres flagged as worn close to the legal limit in 2025, alongside front brake pads also nearing exhaustion. This contrasts with the clean passes in 2024 and 2023, where no defects were recorded, suggesting a recent neglect of basic maintenance. The rear brake pads, previously flagged in 2022 and 2021, have not been addressed, indicating a pattern of deferred servicing rather than mechanical failure. The recorded mileage of 41,999 miles over eight years suggests unusually light usage, averaging just over 5,200 miles annually. This low mileage could imply prolonged periods of inactivity, which may have contributed to issues like tyre degradation—tyres degrade over time even when not driven, particularly if stored improperly. The jump from 26,538 miles in 2022 to 35,452 miles in 2023 (8,914 miles in a year) and then to 38,560 in 2024 (3,108 miles) shows inconsistent driving patterns, which might correlate with sporadic maintenance. The absence of any advisories or structural faults in prior tests suggests the vehicle’s core integrity remains intact, but the lack of regular servicing raises concerns about unseen wear in suspension components, fluid levels, or minor corrosion. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of all brake pads and discs, particularly the front and rear components, which have been flagged repeatedly. The tyres, now worn close to the legal limit, should be checked for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate alignment issues or suspension wear. Given the low mileage and inconsistent driving history, the suspension bushes, coil springs, and steering rack should be examined for stiffness or binding, as these components degrade gradually even with minimal use. Additionally, the vehicle’s underbody and wheel arches should be scrutinised for corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and sills, where standing water could have accelerated rust over periods of inactivity. Documented advisories or service history beyond the MOT record would provide further clarity on the vehicle’s true condition.