2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · CX09 AGY

Accumulating 167,926 miles over its seventeen-year lifespan, this Ford Focus exhibits a consistent history of recurring structural corrosion, suspension component wear, and powertrain fluid leaks, culminating in a pass recorded on 2024-09-14. While the vehicle successfully secured passing certificates across its recent annual tests, the underlying trajectory reveals persistent mechanical degradation. The MOT archive shows multiple failure events preceding these passes, including a dangerous defect in 2023 for a fractured anti-roll bar linkage alongside lighting faults, and major structural suspension arm failures in 2022. Rather than showing a stabilizing trend, the vehicle repeatedly accumulates advisories for deteriorating subframes and persistent oil leaks year after year. With a mileage accumulation averaging roughly 9,878 miles per year, the vehicle has experienced a steady, typical usage pattern rather than prolonged periods of inactivity or extreme high-mileage abuse. This balanced operational tempo means that wear and tear is distributed across standard mechanical intervals rather than concentrated by disuse. However, at nearly 168,000 miles, high-mileage consumables and major load-bearing assemblies have reached advanced operational stages, meaning that previous repairs to suspension arms and subframes have not eliminated the ongoing degradation noted in subsequent tests. Prospective buyers must prioritize a thorough physical inspection of the front and rear subframes, which have been repeatedly flagged for corrosion. During a test drive, listen carefully for clunks, rattles, or knocking noises from the wheel arches when navigating speed bumps or rough road surfaces, as these symptoms indicate play in the worn suspension bushes and links highlighted in the test history. Additionally, check the steering responsiveness for any looseness or vagueness that would point to degraded wishbone bushes or ball joints. Furthermore, inspect the engine bay and underside for the source of the recurring oil leak noted in multiple inspections, and check the condition of the front brake discs, which were advised as worn, pitted, or scored. On the road, depress the brake pedal firmly to test for any vibration or pulsing through the pedal that would confirm disc scoring, and ensure the manual transmission and clutch engage smoothly without slipping. The exhaust system, which has a history of surface deterioration, should also be inspected while the engine is running to detect any blowing gases or excessive corrosion at the centre section.