2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · EO09 EWW

The most recent MOT inspection on 08 October 2025 resulted in a pass, though the record indicates a persistent pattern of wear rather than a clean bill of health. While the vehicle has successfully passed its annual tests since 2019, the maintenance trend shows recurring advisories regarding suspension components and tyre wear. The presence of minor defects concerning the windscreen and wiper blades suggests a tendency for small, non-safety-critical items to be overlooked until they are noted by the tester. Although the dangerous failure for brake pad thickness in 2022 was rectified, the recurring nature of the suspension advisories suggests that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, it is entering a phase of life where component degradation is becoming a regular feature of its maintenance profile. With a recorded mileage of 121,163 miles over approximately 17 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,127 miles per year. This represents a relatively low annual usage rate, which is typical for a secondary vehicle or one used for local commuting. Mechanically, this lower mileage can be beneficial for the engine and drivetrain, but it often presents specific risks associated with infrequent use. Vehicles with this usage profile are more prone to age-related degradation of rubber components, such as seals and hoses, and may suffer from moisture accumulation in the exhaust system or brake fluid. The moderate mileage means that while the major mechanical assemblies may not be heavily worn, the consumables and rubber-based suspension elements are likely reaching the end of their serviceable life due to time rather than distance. A primary concern for a prospective buyer is the repeated advisories concerning the nearside and offside front suspension arm pins and bushes. These components have been flagged as worn since at least 2019 and remain an advisory in the most recent test. This indicates progressive wear that, while not yet at a failure threshold, will eventually require replacement. During a test drive, you should listen closely for knocking, clunking, or creaking noises when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces. Furthermore, worn suspension bushes can negatively impact the vehicle's steering precision and may lead to uneven tyre wear. You should also check the tyre tread depth and condition across all four corners, as the history shows a recurring pattern of tyres wearing close to the legal limit or unevenly on the edges, which can be a symptom of the aforementioned suspension issues. In addition to the suspension, the recent minor defects regarding the windscreen and wiper blades suggest you should inspect the glass for any chips or cracks that could spread under thermal stress. Given the vehicle's age and relatively low annual mileage, it is also essential to perform a physical inspection of the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which occurs when rubber dries out from age regardless of tread depth. Check the underside of the vehicle for signs of corrosion, particularly on the exhaust and structural members, as long-term standing can encourage oxidation. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that fluids, such as coolant and brake fluid, have been changed based on time intervals rather than just mileage, as these fluids degrade chemically over time and are vital for the longevity of a 17-year-old vehicle.