2016 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · CV66 OXM

The most recent MOT, dated 29 September 2025, resulted in a failure on the grounds of the off‑side front tyre tread being below the legal minimum of 1.6 mm, with an accompanying advisory that a child seat prevented a full inspection of the adult seat‑belt. This failure follows a pattern of tyre‑related advisories and failures in 2020, 2021 and 2023, and a single advisory for front‑subframe corrosion in 2023. While the vehicle has passed its MOTs in the intervening years, the recurrence of tyre wear warnings and the recent dangerous defect indicate a maintenance trend that is slipping rather than stabilising, and the corrosion advisory suggests that structural integrity should also be monitored. At ten years old the car has logged 52,005 miles, giving an average annual mileage of just over 5,200 mi. This is well below the typical UK average of around 10‑12 000 mi per year for a vehicle of this age, implying either very light use or extended periods of inactivity. Low utilisation can be a double‑edged sword: while it reduces wear on wear‑items such as clutch, gearbox and engine internals, it also allows age‑related degradation to dominate, with rubber components hardening, seals drying out and corrosion developing on parts that sit idle. Consequently, the buyer should be alert to signs of ageing rather than simply mileage‑related wear. The immediate priority is a thorough tyre inspection. All four tyres should be measured for tread depth, sidewall cracking and any signs of dry‑rot, especially given the repeated low‑tread failures. Uneven wear patterns may point to mis‑aligned suspension, worn camber or toe settings, or failing front‑end bushes; a test‑drive should reveal any clunk, wander or pulling to one side, and the steering should feel tight without excessive play. If any tyre is close to the legal limit or shows age‑related cracking, replacement is advisable before the next MOT. The advisory about corrosion on the front subframe warrants a visual check for rust at mounting points, weld seams and suspension brackets; any flaking or pitting could compromise structural rigidity and should be addressed by a qualified body shop. Given the vehicle’s age and modest mileage, the buyer should also verify the condition of time‑sensitive items. The 12‑volt battery, if original, is likely beyond its optimal service life and should be load‑tested; a weak battery may manifest as slow cranking or dimming lights. Brake discs and pads should be inspected for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and the calipers checked for binding, especially if the car has spent long periods stationary. Engine oil, coolant and brake fluid should be examined for colour and moisture, as fluids degrade over calendar time even without high mileage. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and that any recommended part replacements – such as suspension bushes or drive‑shaft universal joints – have been carried out, as these are critical to maintaining roadworthiness in a low‑mileage, ageing vehicle.