2010 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · EF60 ABO

The most recent DVSA examination on 23 May 2026 returned a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, and the 2024 and 2023 tests were similarly unblemished, indicating a stable maintenance profile. The single failure event in May 2025 was limited to two minor present-time items, being a nearside front headlamp aim found to be too low and an inoperative rear registration plate lamp, and a pass was issued on the same date following rectification. There is no recurrence of any structural, braking, suspension, or exhaust-related defects across the recorded history, which is a reassuring indicator for a vehicle of this age and mileage. The absence of persistent advisories relating to wear components such as brake discs, tyres, or suspension bushes suggests the keeper has been attentive to consumable replacement prior to test, though it does not remove the need for a thorough pre-purchase inspection. With 110,911 miles accumulated over approximately 16 years, this Focus is averaging around 6,900 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a privately used family car of its vintage. The mileage progression between tests appears consistent and there are no obvious gaps to suggest long periods of standing or unusually rapid accumulation that might point to motorway fleet use. At this odometer reading, mechanical attention should be directed towards the mid-to-late life components of the vehicle, including the timing belt and ancillary drive belt service intervals, clutch wear if fitted with a manual gearbox, and the general condition of the exhaust system and catalytic converter, which can suffer internal failure on higher-mileage petrol engines. Given the clean MOT record and the age of the car, a prospective buyer should concentrate on age-related degradation that the standard MOT does not necessarily capture. Inspect the sidewalls of all tyres carefully for perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds harden and deteriorate with calendar age regardless of tread depth, and check the spare or inflation kit if present. Examine the brake discs on both axles for pronounced lipping and surface corrosion, particularly on the rear drums or discs of a vehicle that may have spent time parked, and confirm that the handbrake mechanism and caliper sliding pins are free, as seized calipers are a known concern on older Fords. Verify the age of the 12-volt battery, as a unit older than five to six years is likely to be approaching end of service life even if it currently starts the vehicle reliably, and check the condition of the cooling system hoses, radiator, and expansion tank for any signs of staining or weeping. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, paying particular attention to the anti-roll bar bushes, lower wishbone bushes, and front strut top mount bearings, all of which are recognised wear items on the Focus platform of this generation. Confirm that the clutch take-up is smooth and that there is no slipping under load or vibration through the pedal, and ensure that the steering remains centralised with no pulling to either side. Check that the engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and engine oil are at correct levels and have been changed in line with manufacturer service intervals, as brake fluid in particular is hygroscopic and should be renewed every two years irrespective of mileage. Finally, inspect the underbody and inner arches for any signs of corrosion bubbling or perforation around the wheel arches, sills, and rear suspension mounting points, as these are common rust-prone areas on a sixteen-year-old Focus and warrant close scrutiny before purchase.