2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · FE09 FYC

Consistent roadworthiness defines the history of this Ford Focus, which has maintained a streak of clean passes in its most recent two annual inspections, concluding with a successful test on 21 January 2025. While the vehicle has demonstrated a reliable trajectory in recent years, the record is not entirely without blemish, as the 2023 examination highlighted uneven tyre wear on both the offside front and rear corners. This pattern of pass results suggests that the vehicle has remained compliant with safety standards, though the historical presence of tyre-related advisories warrants a close look at the current alignment and suspension geometry to ensure that the previous issues were resolved rather than merely masked by new rubber. Accumulating 103,752 miles over 17 years results in an average of approximately 6,100 miles per annum, a figure that aligns with typical usage patterns for a vehicle of this age. This consistent, moderate annual mileage indicates that the car has likely been in regular operation rather than subjected to extended periods of dormancy, which can often lead to the degradation of seals, hoses, and fuel systems. However, at this stage of the vehicle's life, the cumulative impact of over 100,000 miles means that high-wear items such as suspension bushes, shock absorbers, and wheel bearings are likely reaching the end of their design life, regardless of how frequently the car has been driven. During your test drive, pay particular attention to the handling characteristics, as the previous advisories regarding uneven tyre wear may point to underlying issues with the suspension linkages or tracking. Listen intently for any knocking or clunking noises when traversing uneven surfaces or speed humps, which would indicate worn anti-roll bar links or control arm bushes. If the steering feels vague or if the vehicle pulls to one side on a flat, straight road, it is a strong indicator that the wheel alignment remains compromised or that there is play in the steering rack ends, both of which are common points of failure on this chassis as mileage increases. Beyond the suspension, inspect the braking performance by ensuring the pedal feel is firm and that the vehicle comes to a stop in a straight line without judder or pulling. Since the MOT test does not always reveal the internal condition of brake calipers, check for signs of binding or sticking, such as excessive heat radiating from the wheels after a short drive or a burning smell. Furthermore, given the age of the vehicle, perform a visual check of the visible brake lines and the rear subframe for signs of heavy surface corrosion, as these components are prone to oxidation that can eventually compromise structural integrity if left unaddressed.