2016 Ford Focus 1.0L Petrol · CF16 TMZ

A pattern of corrosion on the rear sub-frame is the most consistent mechanical thread running through this Ford Focus's MOT history, appearing as an advisory in both 2024 and 2026 against an otherwise largely clean record of passes. Across seven recorded tests from 2019 to 2026, the vehicle has passed every annual examination without a single failure, and only two of those tests in the past five years recorded any advisory at all. The most recent test on 30 July 2026 passed with two advisories: a nail in the nearside rear tyre and the same rear sub-frame corrosion that was flagged two years earlier. Because the corrosion has been noted at consecutive tests as not seriously weakened, the structure remains within MOT tolerances, but the fact that the examiner has felt compelled to comment twice on the same area is a clear signal that buyer inspection should focus closely on the rear suspension mounting points and sub-frame members for any progression beyond surface oxidation. Recorded mileage stands at 95,758 miles over a ten-year span, equating to roughly 9,576 miles per year, which sits close to the expected annual accumulation for a car of this age. Testing has been consistently annual with no recorded gaps, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular use throughout its life rather than suffering any extended periods off the road. The mileage progression between tests appears steady and proportionate to the intervals, with no sudden jumps that would indicate heavy motorway mileage or, conversely, any multi-year lay-up that might have produced component seizure or fluid degradation issues. This continuous and moderate usage pattern is consistent with a vehicle that has been driven regularly enough to keep mechanicals working but not so hard that high-mileage wear items have been pushed to their limits ahead of schedule. For a prospective buyer, the rear sub-frame corrosion advisory is the single most important area to scrutinise. On inspection, look beneath the rear of the vehicle at the trailing arm mounting points and the sub-frame itself, paying particular attention to any flaking, pitting, or scale around the suspension bushes and brake line brackets. Give the bodywork a firm push from each corner while listening for any clonks or creaks that could indicate worn rear bushes, and listen specifically for a dull, structural-sounding knock over speed humps rather than the lighter noise of a worn shock absorber top mount. Check that the rear brakes are biting evenly, because seized rear calipers can sometimes accompany neglected rear undercarriage areas, and verify that the handbrake holds firmly on an incline. The tyre-related advisories across four separate tests point to uneven wear rather than outright premature ageing, with both front and rear axles flagged for shoulder wear, cuts, and perishing cracking over the years. On a test drive, listen for any drone or vibration through the steering wheel that could indicate a deformed front tyre or wheel imbalance, and feel for any pulling to one side under braking that could suggest a binding caliper. The 2022 advisories for thinning front brake pads and worn front discs mean these consumables are now likely due for replacement, so a physical inspection of pad material thickness and disc lipping is worthwhile, and on the road the brake pedal should feel firm without any judder under heavy application. Finally, confirm the rear nearside tyre has been repaired or replaced since the July 2026 nail advisory, as a slow puncture repair may not be a permanent solution and the wheel should be checked for any sustained pressure loss.