2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · FG09 DNF

This 2009 Ford Focus presents a sparse MOT history that makes definitive mechanical judgement difficult. With only three recorded test entries over a multi-year span and no advisory details captured, the most recent outcome on 27 August 2024 confirms the vehicle passed, suggesting it is presently roadworthy. However, the test immediately prior on 20 August 2024 recorded a failure, and the seven-day gap between these two results strongly implies a same-station retest following a repair or adjustment rather than a new defect. Without the underlying failure or advisory data being retained, the buyer has no historical visibility into component wear trends on items such as suspension bushes, brake discs, exhaust mounting, or corrosion on structural panels. The recorded mileage of 144,528 miles against a 17-year vehicle age equates to roughly 8,500 miles annually, which sits within the expected range for a car of this vintage. That said, the MOT testing history itself is unusually thin, with only three documented visits over the life of the vehicle and a notable absence of records between 2022 and 2024. This may indicate a period off the road under SORN, a change of ownership with delayed testing, or simply missing data. Either way, the buyer should be aware that a Focus of this age and mileage will typically have accumulated wear on high-load components, and the lack of granular inspection history means any deterioration occurring between tests will not be formally recorded. For a physical inspection, attention should focus on the common Ford Focus weak points for this generation. The front suspension is particularly susceptible to worn lower arm bushes, failing anti-roll bar drop links, and torn strut top mounts, all of which manifest as clonking over speed humps, vague steering, or uneven front tyre wear. On the test drive, listen for clonks or knocks from the front end over uneven surfaces, and check for steering pull or uneven tyre wear that would suggest alignment or bush issues. The rear beam axle bushes are also known to deteriorate, producing rear-end instability or a vague feel over bumps at speed. Brake system condition should be closely examined given the mileage, with specific focus on disc wear, caliper slide pin seizure, and the condition of flexible brake hoses, which on a Focus of this age can begin to perish. Listen for any binding or rubbing noises on the test drive and verify the handbrake holds on an incline, as rear caliper mechanisms can become sluggish. Finally, inspect the underside thoroughly for corrosion on subframes, suspension arms, and brake pipe unions, which are recurring advisories on Focuses of this era, and check for any oil seepage from the engine and gearbox seals, as the 1.6 and 1.8 petrol units in particular are prone to rear main seal and cam cover gasket weeping at this mileage.