2002 Ford Focus 2.0L Petrol · CV02 AOC

The most recent MOT, conducted on 11 November 2024, was passed but carried an advisory noting slight play in the nearside front wheel bearing. This same advisory has been recorded for the preceding three years, indicating a persistent but not yet failing condition. The consistency of the advisory suggests that the bearing wear is progressing slowly and has not yet reached the point of a mandatory failure, but it also shows that no corrective action has been taken to address the issue, so the trend is static rather than improving. At 111,743 miles on a 2002 model, the vehicle averages roughly 4,650 miles per annum, which is markedly lower than the typical UK usage of around 8,000 to 10,000 miles per year for a car of this age. The modest annual mileage points to periods of light use or extended storage, which can be beneficial for engine and transmission longevity but may also hide age‑related deterioration such as rubber hardening, corrosion, and fluid breakdown. The low mileage does not automatically guarantee mechanical soundness; components that are time‑sensitive rather than distance‑sensitive may have suffered from lack of regular operation. When inspecting the vehicle, give particular attention to the nearside front wheel bearing. On a test drive listen for a faint growl or hum that changes with vehicle speed and becomes more pronounced when turning left, and feel for any looseness or wobble when the steering wheel is held steady at low speeds. A visual inspection should include checking the bearing housing for oil leaks, excessive dust, or corrosion, and verifying that the wheel spindle and hub are free of play when the wheel is rocked vertically and laterally. If the bearing is indeed nearing the end of its service life, replacement is advisable before it progresses to a failure that could affect steering precision or cause uneven tyre wear. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, also examine the condition of the tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot, or uneven tread that may have developed while the car was stationary for long periods. Inspect the battery for sulphation and test its cranking voltage, as 12‑volt lead‑acid units can lose capacity after years of intermittent use. Check the brake discs for surface rust, pitting, or signs of seized caliper pistons, especially if the car has been stored; the pads should be examined for glazing or hardening. Finally, confirm that all major fluids—engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil—have been changed in accordance with calendar intervals, as time‑based degradation can occur even with limited mileage, and look for any signs of leaks around the engine bay, sump, and rear axle.