2004 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · FH04 CWL

The 2004 Ford Focus presents a stable and largely unblemished mechanical record. The most recent MOT, conducted on 18 October 2021 at 102,840 miles, passed with zero defects. A preceding test on 15 October 2021 at 102,710 miles also failed with no defects recorded, indicating a retest likely for an administrative or minor advisory item. The maintenance trend is stable, with no recurring faults or serious mechanical risks flagged across the entire recorded history. The mileage pattern tells a specific story. Between the January 2019 test at 85,775 miles and the October 2021 test at 102,840 miles, the vehicle covered approximately 17,065 miles in just under three years. However, the recorded mileage has remained static at 102,840 miles since October 2021, a gap of nearly five years without a new MOT record. For a vehicle of this age, the overall annual average of roughly 4,675 miles is low, but the recent static mileage suggests the car has been standing unused for an extended period. This raises concerns about deterioration from lack of use rather than wear from use. A buyer must inspect components that degrade with age and inactivity, not just mileage. Tyres will almost certainly require replacement due to sidewall cracking and tread deterioration from prolonged standing. Brake discs and calipers should be checked for surface corrosion and seizure, a common issue on stationary vehicles. Suspension bushes, coil springs, and shock absorbers need close examination for perishing and corrosion, particularly given the vehicle's age. The exhaust system and underbody must be inspected for structural rust, as a stationary car can trap moisture and accelerate corrosion in areas that regular use would help keep dry. The complete absence of any advisories or failures in the MOT history is a positive indicator of past care. However, the five-year gap since the last test is a significant red flag for a vehicle that has likely been sitting idle. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential, focusing on fluid condition, fuel system integrity, and the structural integrity of the chassis and subframe before any commitment is made.