2017 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · CF04 TAT

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 Ford Focus recorded a passing result on 2026-08-21, marking a positive turnaround following a series of failures and advisories in the preceding year. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly around tyre wear and front brake pad thickness, which have persisted across multiple tests. While the latest test shows no defects, the earlier failures—including multiple instances of front brake pads being below the legal minimum thickness of 1.5mm and offside suspension arm ball joint wear—suggest ongoing or unresolved mechanical wear. The presence of several advisories concerning tyre wear close to the legal limit, particularly on the front tyres, indicates that the vehicle has not been maintained to prevent progressive tyre degradation, which could lead to uneven wear patterns, hydroplaning risks, or premature tyre failure if not addressed promptly. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 68,420 miles at the time of assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 7,602 miles per year, which is typical for a nine-year-old car driven under mixed conditions. The consistent mileage accumulation suggests regular use, though the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the two-year interval between 2023 and 2025—may indicate periods of reduced or stationary operation. Stationary vehicles are particularly vulnerable to issues such as brake corrosion, particularly if the front brakes have been left in a stationary state for extended periods, as evidenced by the previous MOT failures where brake pads were found to be below legal thickness. Additionally, prolonged standing can accelerate tyre perishing, especially if the tyres were not rotated or rotated infrequently, leading to the observed edge wear and uneven tread depth recorded in multiple MOTs. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front brakes, suspension components, and tyres, given the historical failures. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as grinding or squeaking from the front brakes, which could indicate worn brake pads or warped discs, and check for a firm but even pedal feel—binding calipers or corroded brake components may cause a spongy or uneven response. Inspect the front suspension for excessive clunking or rattling, which could signal worn suspension bushes or ball joints, as previously flagged in the 2022 MOT. The tyres should be examined for signs of uneven wear, bulges, or cracks, particularly around the shoulder areas where advisories were recorded. Given the vehicle’s age and the history of brake pad wear, consider having the brake system professionally inspected, including checking for corrosion on brake discs and ensuring the brake fluid is fresh, as standing fluid can degrade over time. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also verify the vehicle’s service history, particularly for fluid servicing, as the Ford Focus’s engine and transmission fluids degrade over time, even with regular use. Check the 12V battery health, as prolonged stationary periods can lead to battery discharge, and inspect the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, which may not have been flagged in the MOT but could indicate underlying issues. Pay particular attention to the tyre sidewall for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety, especially given the vehicle’s age. Finally, ensure the vehicle’s service book is up to date, particularly for the suspension and brake servicing intervals, as the ball joint wear and brake pad failures suggest that these components may require attention sooner rather than later. If the buyer is comfortable with the inspection findings, proceed with caution, prioritising the front brake and suspension components for immediate attention.