2012 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · CV12 WLU

The most recent MOT test on 15 March 2025 confirms the vehicle remains roadworthy, with no defects or advisories recorded. However, the history reveals an irregular pattern: two consecutive failures in March 2023 and 2024—both without recorded defects—followed by a clean pass in March 2025. This inconsistency suggests either administrative errors in the testing process or intermittent issues that were not captured in the official record. The latest pass, just over 17 months ago, means the vehicle is now 19 months past its due date, which is beyond the recommended 12-month interval for vehicles of this age and mileage. The absence of any advisories in the last three tests implies no recurring mechanical concerns were flagged, but this does not preclude hidden issues. The recorded mileage of 143,732 miles over 14 years equates to an average of approximately 10,267 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps or spikes in the mileage data provided, though the lack of intermediate MOTs between 2023 and 2025 prevents confirmation of consistent usage. Without service records, it is impossible to determine whether maintenance was performed at regular intervals, but the steady mileage suggests the vehicle has been driven consistently rather than left unused for extended periods. The absence of a V5C logbook or service history in the MOT data means critical intervals for suspension components, brake wear, and fluid changes cannot be verified. Given the irregular MOT failures and the vehicle’s age, a prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the condition of coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers, as these components degrade predictably over 14 years. The braking system warrants close examination, including rear brake binding (if the 2023/2024 failures were related to brake performance) and the integrity of brake discs and calipers for uneven wear or corrosion. Structural integrity should also be assessed, focusing on areas prone to rust—such as wheel arches, subframes, and sills—where prolonged neglect could compromise safety. The lack of advisories in recent tests does not rule out these risks, so visual and functional checks are essential.