2010 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · FE59 LTT

The 2010 Ford Focus has demonstrated a worsening maintenance trend over the past three MOT cycles, with critical failures in the 2024 test marking a significant deterioration in structural and suspension integrity. The most recent February 2026 test passed but revealed ongoing undersealing concerns, while the February 2025 test highlighted corrosion in the rear sub-frame and worn brake discs—a pattern suggesting deferred maintenance rather than isolated issues. The 2024 tests were particularly revealing: a near-failure on the same day (164,038 miles) due to fractured front coil springs and defective exhaust mounts, alongside persistent steering and tyre faults, indicates a vehicle that was driven despite serious mechanical compromises. The lack of corrective action between tests raises questions about whether previous owners prioritised cost over safety or simply overlooked critical components. Mileage progression shows a steady but typical accumulation for a vehicle of this age, averaging around 11,000 miles annually, with no abrupt jumps or prolonged stagnation. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests (roughly 9,800 miles in 12 months) aligns with the broader pattern, though the near-simultaneous failure and pass in February 2024 suggests the vehicle may have been driven shortly before inspection. There are no red flags in the mileage data itself, but the combination of high mileage and repeated faults points to wear beyond what would be expected from distance travelled alone. A prospective buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of the front suspension, particularly the coil springs and steering rack joints, which were flagged in multiple tests and ultimately failed in 2024. The rear sub-frame corrosion from 2025 warrants close examination for structural weakening, while the rear brakes and tyres—though not failing—showed consistent wear approaching legal limits. The exhaust mounting defect in 2024 may indicate loose or broken components, and the steering play suggests worn inner joints or a failing rack. Given the history, the undersealing condition from 2026 should also be verified, as inadequate protection could accelerate rust and suspension deterioration.