2008 Ford Focus 2.5L Petrol · EA08 CSY

The most recent MOT, carried out on 6 November 2024, was passed but returned several advisories – notably tyre tread approaching the legal minimum, rear outer brake pads nearing the wear limit and wear on the nearside rear trailing‑arm bush as well as the front suspension arm bushes. Over the preceding six years the record shows a pattern of recurring oil‑seal leakage, progressive suspension bush wear and a gradual reduction in brake‑disc thickness that was addressed after the 2020 failure. While the vehicle has consistently passed the test since 2021, the frequency of advisories has increased, indicating a maintenance trend that is stabilising but still requires attention to wear items and the persistent oil leak. At 113,870 miles the Focus has averaged roughly 6 300 miles per annum since its first registration in 2008, a usage rate that sits squarely within the normal UK average for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious long‑term mileage gaps in the MOT history, suggesting the car has not spent prolonged periods idle, which would otherwise raise concerns about fuel‑system and battery degradation. The mileage is modest enough that major power‑train components such as the timing chain and gearbox are unlikely to be near the end of their design lives, but the cumulative distance does mean that wear‑items – tyres, brakes, suspension bushings and engine seals – will be approaching the point where replacement is prudent. A prospective buyer should begin by inspecting all four tyres for tread depth, side‑wall cracking and uneven wear patterns, especially the inner edge of the off‑side rear tyre and the outer edge of the nearside rear tyre that were flagged in the latest advisory. While on the road listen for any clunk or squeak when applying the brakes or negotiating bumps, which would indicate further wear of the rear brake pads or a resurgence of the rear trailing‑arm bush wear. Examine the front and rear suspension arm bushes for any looseness or excessive play by pushing on the wheel arches and feeling for movement; worn bushes often manifest as a hollow thump over potholes. Verify that the oil leak noted in three consecutive years is minor – look for fresh oil around the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing and the front and rear main seals – and confirm that the leak has not led to low oil level or contamination of the exhaust system. Finally, check that all exterior lighting functions correctly, particularly the front position lamps that failed in 2021, and confirm the condition of the anti‑roll‑bar dust cover that was reported as severely deteriorated in 2019. Given the vehicle’s age, assess the 12‑volt battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage, and inspect the under‑body for any rust on the chassis rails, suspension mounting points and exhaust system. A full service history, especially recent brake pad and tyre replacements, will give confidence that the wear items flagged by the MOT have been addressed and that the car remains mechanically sound for continued use.