2010 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · EX10 EPD

A clear pattern of structural and suspension corrosion runs through this 2010 Ford Focus's MOT history, alongside an unusually high number of Major defects across the last four tests. The December 2024 pass was only secured after a Major defect failure the same month for excessive exhaust emissions, incorrect headlamp aim, and an inoperative registration plate lamp, while the 2023 test recorded a Major failure for a missing offside steering rack gaiter, an incorrectly aimed headlamp, and an inoperative reversing lamp. Both front lower suspension arm rear bushes were recorded as excessively worn in July 2021, an issue severe enough to be categorised as Major under the suspension integrity category. Advisories logged at the 2024 test show coil spring corrosion on all four corners, vehicle structure or chassis corrosion within 30cm of a mounting point, and general suspension corrosion, with subframe corrosion advisories recurring from 2021 onwards on both front and rear subframes and the rear anti-roll bar. The cumulative record is therefore one of a vehicle carrying significant corrosion load on its underbody structure and suspension, with multiple test-to-test Major defects that go beyond simple bulb or tyre failures. Recorded mileage stands at 128,866 miles on a 16-year-old vehicle, equating to roughly 8,054 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a car of this age that has seen regular daily use. There are no extended gaps in the testing history, with tests recorded consistently from 2021 through 2024, suggesting the vehicle has remained in active service rather than being laid up for prolonged periods. The mileage between tests is consistent with steady running rather than any notable sudden accumulation, so the underbody corrosion pattern cannot be attributed to long-term storage moisture issues but rather to years of active road exposure, a common finding on Mk2 and early Mk3 Focus models of this vintage. The recorded failures do not show any pattern consistent with very low use, and the wear-related advisories on tyres, brake hoses, and suspension components align with what would be anticipated at this accumulated mileage. A prospective buyer should treat the underbody corrosion advisories as a primary inspection priority. The subframe corrosion logged on both front and rear assemblies in 2021 and again in 2022 should be physically examined with the vehicle raised, looking for any progression beyond surface oxidation, particularly around mounting points and at the rear anti-roll bar attachment. The chassis structure advisory recorded in December 2024 is specifically worded as not seriously affecting overall security at that point, but a close inspection of the mounting area is warranted to confirm no further deterioration has occurred since the test was carried out. The all-four coil spring corrosion advisories are likewise a clear indicator that the springs themselves may be close to replacement, and on a test drive any audible knocking from the front or rear over uneven surfaces, or a notably harsh ride quality, would suggest the springs have progressed beyond acceptable condition. The lower suspension arm rear bushes that were both flagged as excessively worn in 2021 should be checked for renewed components, and any clonking or wandering steering response over bumps would indicate the bushes have not been replaced or have worn again since. The steering rack gaiter has been flagged across two separate tests, first as missing in late 2023 and then as twisted but still preventing ingress in late 2024, meaning the gaiter area has had ongoing attention and the joint itself should be inspected for any signs of grease contamination, moisture, or play on a road evaluation. The exhaust emissions Major failure recorded in November 2024 was remedied before the December pass, but the cause is unknown from the record alone, so a check for any visible blue smoke on start-up, a strong smell of unburnt fuel, or an illuminated emissions-related dashboard warning light is sensible. The headlamp aim issues recorded in 2023 and 2024 are relatively minor in mechanical terms but worth confirming by checking that both beams sit level and correctly on a flat surface in front of a wall. The front brake hose that was flagged as inadequately secured in 2023 should be visually inspected for proper clipping and any signs of cracking or swelling under load, and a firm brake pedal with no sponginess or pulling under braking would confirm the hydraulic system remains sound. Given the combination of structural advisories, repeated Major defects, and accumulating underbody corrosion, a pre-purchase inspection on a ramp would be strongly advisable before committing to purchase.