2020 Ford Focus 1.5L Petrol · EO20 XDG

The 1.5-litre petrol engine should return roughly 45 to 50 mpg on a long run and 35 to 40 mpg in mixed use, depending on driving style. Road tax sits in a low band thanks to Euro 6 DG compliance, typically £165 to £190 per year for this model, though you should confirm the exact figure using the V5C reference number. Insurance is reasonable — the Focus 1.5 petrol in this generation generally falls into group 12 to 16, so expect premiums in the £500 to £800 range for an experienced driver with a clean licence.

Routine maintenance such as an annual service is likely to cost £180 to £260 at an independent garage, with major items like brake fluid, coolant and spark plugs adding modest sums over time. The model-wide MOT pass rate of 79.1% is respectable and suggests that most running-cost surprises tend to be consumables rather than major mechanical failures. Overall annual running costs, including fuel, tax, insurance and maintenance, are likely to fall in the region of £1,400 to £1,800.

Start with the brakes — the September 2024 MOT advisory recorded all four brake pads as wearing thin at 32,305 miles. By the September 2025 test at 42,058 miles, those pads will have covered another 9,750 miles and are likely to be nearing the end of their useful life, so check pad thickness and disc condition on every wheel. Inspect the underside of the car for corrosion, particularly around the rear wheel arches and underbody seams — corrosion is the third most common MOT failure reason across the Focus range.

Beyond the MOT data, check the tyres closely for even wear, as the model-wide data shows tyres as the leading MOT failure cause. Uneven wear can indicate suspension or alignment issues, which are worth investigating. Headlamp condition is another model-wide weak point, so verify both units work correctly, are free of condensation, and that the beam pattern is correct. Finally, look for oil leaks around the engine and gearbox, listen for any timing-chain rattle on a cold start, and confirm the clutch feels smooth — these are sensible precautions on any used 1.5 EcoBoost Focus.