2022 Ford Focus Active Vignale Mhev Auto 1.0L Petrol · EK22 YFD

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT test on 1 April 2026 with no failures or refusals recorded, though two advisories were noted at this examination. One relates to slight damage, cracking or perishing on the nearside front tyre, while the other flags the offside front tyre as being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge. Looking at the previous test from 29 March 2025, the vehicle also passed, but with a broader set of advisories affecting all four tyres for similar cracking, perishing or minor damage concerns. While there are no recorded failures and the vehicle has consistently achieved test certification, the recurring nature of these tyre advisories across consecutive tests suggests a pattern of age-related sidewall degradation rather than isolated issues, which a prospective buyer should treat as a developing maintenance priority rather than a passing concern. With approximately 41,440 miles recorded against an age of around four years, this equates to an annual mileage in the region of 10,360 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and class. The MOT history provides only two data points roughly twelve months apart, making it difficult to identify any specific mileage gaps or unusual usage patterns, but the overall rate suggests the car has seen regular but moderate use. This level of mileage is generally favourable in terms of wear on major drivetrain components such as the clutch, automatic gearbox internals and engine, though it does not eliminate the need for thorough inspection of consumables and age-sensitive items. The mild-hybrid MHEV system itself should be checked for proper 48V battery health and any warning lights on the dashboard, as these components can degrade regardless of mileage. Turning to the specific defect history, the recurring tyre advisories warrant close attention during a pre-purchase inspection. The cracking and perishing noted across multiple tyres is characteristic of rubber ageing from exposure to UV light and ambient conditions rather than purely from tread wear, and this can affect grip and road safety even where tread depth remains adequate. On a test drive, listen for increased road roar from the front end, which can indicate sidewall deterioration, and check for any uneven wear patterns particularly on the front axle where steering and braking forces are highest. The offside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit and on the edge also hints at a possible tracking or wheel alignment issue, which would be worth investigating to avoid premature replacement of the new tyres fitted after purchase. Given the advisory flags spanning two consecutive MOT tests, budgeting for a full set of quality replacement tyres should be considered an immediate upcoming maintenance cost. Beyond the documented advisories, a vehicle of this age and moderate mileage merits several age- and calendar-based inspections that may not yet show on MOT records but are nonetheless relevant. The brake discs and calipers should be examined for any surface corrosion or signs of binding, particularly if the vehicle has spent periods standing between uses, and a firm brake pedal feel should be confirmed during the test drive to rule out seized caliper slides. Coolant, brake fluid and the MHEV system coolant should be assessed for service interval compliance, as brake fluid in particular is hygroscopic and degrades on a time basis regardless of mileage, typically requiring renewal every two years. The 12V auxiliary battery should be load-tested, as short-trip urban use patterns and any periods of standing can significantly reduce its service life. Finally, verify that the service book is fully stamped in line with Ford's manufacturer schedule, and confirm the operation of all hybrid system functions, including any auto start-stop and regenerative braking indicators, to ensure the mild-hybrid drivetrain is performing as intended.