2009 Ford Focus 2.0L Diesel · DU09 DBV

The most recent MOT test for this 2009 Ford Focus occurred on 2024-02-21, where it passed despite retaining several persistent advisories and minor faults. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues rather than a clear improvement or deterioration. The oil leak advisory, front and rear tyre wear close to legal limits, and wheel bearing play have all been noted in multiple tests, indicating either ongoing wear or underlying mechanical wear progression. The stop lamp and headlamp failures from 2022 remain unresolved, suggesting either neglect or persistent electrical wiring or bulb failures. While the vehicle has passed most recent MOTs, the cumulative advisories and minor faults warrant cautious consideration, particularly if the buyer seeks long-term reliability without further costly repairs. The recorded mileage of 99,965 miles for a vehicle aged 17 years represents a notably low annual usage rate of approximately 5,880 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage can result from infrequent use, long periods of stationary storage, or a vehicle kept in a non-operational state. However, this usage profile raises concerns about potential hidden wear from prolonged idling, standing corrosion, and fluid degradation over time. For example, standing for extended periods can lead to brake disc corrosion, caliper binding, and fluid separation in hydraulic systems. Additionally, the lack of regular servicing may have contributed to the persistent oil leak and tyre wear advisories, as these issues often stem from either seal failure or underinflation due to neglect rather than mechanical failure from high mileage. As a prospective buyer, the first priority is to verify the advisories and recurring faults through a thorough physical inspection. The oil leak, if confirmed, should be checked for its source—likely a worn or cracked oil seal around the front bearing housing or valve cover gasket—with a focus on whether it is persistent or intermittent. Listen for a rhythmic, metallic clunking during cornering or acceleration, which may indicate suspension bush wear or a loose wheel bearing. The nearside front and rear tyres worn close to the legal limit suggest either underinflation or excessive cornering forces, which could exacerbate further if not addressed. Inspect the tyres for sidewall cracks or perishing, which are common in older vehicles due to age-related rubber degradation, and ensure they meet the minimum tread depth. For the electrical faults, particularly the offside stop lamp and headlamp failures, check the wiring harnesses, fuses, and bulb sockets for corrosion or damage. Test the stop lamps by pressing the brake pedal firmly and ensuring all lamps illuminate uniformly. The registration plate lamp inoperability is a minor but noticeable issue, which could be resolved by replacing the bulb or checking the wiring. Beyond the MOT history, conduct a test drive to assess the vehicle’s handling and braking performance. Pay attention to any unusual noises such as grinding from brakes, clunking from suspension, or a rough idle from the engine. Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the oil pan, transmission, and brake lines, and verify that the tyres are correctly inflated. Given the low mileage and age, also inspect the brake discs for corrosion or binding, which can occur when the vehicle stands for prolonged periods without use. Finally, consider a battery health check, as older vehicles with low usage may suffer from reduced charge cycles or parasitic drain, leading to poor cold-start reliability. If possible, verify service book stamps for the last scheduled oil change and fluid top-ups, as time-based fluid servicing is critical for vehicles of this age.