2010 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · GD59 MWF

The most recent MOT test on 14 April 2026 resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, continuing a run of clean passes across 2024, 2025, and 2026. Looking back over the documented history, the overall maintenance trend appears broadly stable but with intermittent concerns that have been addressed as they arose. The 2023 test pass carried a single advisory for light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber, and the 2022 pass recorded advisories for both front inner brake discs showing surface pitting and scoring. While the most recent three tests are entirely clean, the recurrence of advisories relating to the front suspension area, including a major failure in 2023 for a deteriorated anti-roll bar linkage dust cover and a minor for the same component in 2021, suggests that the front suspension and underbody components have been a consistent area of attention. Provided those items have been rectified properly, the absence of any fresh advisories in the latest test is a positive indicator. The recorded mileage of 107,984 miles on a 16-year-old vehicle equates to an annual average of approximately 6,749 miles, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and consistent with general commuter or family use. The mileage progression across the recorded tests shows steady, incremental accumulation rather than large gaps or sudden spikes, which suggests the vehicle has been in regular use rather than left standing for extended periods. Regular use of this nature is generally favourable for mechanical components, as it reduces the risk of issues associated with long-term static storage such as seized brakes, flat-spotted tyres, perished rubber seals, and discharged batteries. However, even at typical mileage, a vehicle of this age will have wear-related consumables approaching or past their service intervals, particularly brake components, suspension bushes, and exhaust mountings. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front suspension assembly, given the recurring advisories for the nearside front shock absorber oil misting and the anti-roll bar linkage dust cover deterioration. Light oil misting on a shock absorber indicates the seal is beginning to fail, and progression is typically gradual rather than sudden. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking noises from the front end over bumps, particularly on uneven road surfaces, as this may indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links, deteriorated bushes, or further shock absorber deterioration. Examine the front tyres for uneven inner or outer edge wear, which can point to worn suspension components or geometry misalignment. Given that front inner brake discs were flagged as pitted and scored in 2022, a thorough check of brake pedal feel, any vibration under braking, and the discs themselves for lipping or excessive wear is advisable, as discs that were scored at that point may now be approaching the minimum thickness and require replacement. Beyond the recorded advisories, several age-related items warrant physical inspection. Although no tyre advisories have been raised recently, the 2021 test flagged both rear tyres for cracking and perishing, and tyres on a 16-year-old vehicle can degrade from age regardless of tread depth, so inspect the sidewalls carefully for signs of perishing. Check the 12V battery, as units of this age are typically well beyond their service life, and a weak battery can cause starting issues and electrical faults. Inspect the coolant and brake fluid for any signs of degradation, as these are time-served fluids that should be renewed regardless of mileage. Examine the underbody, particularly the suspension components, subframe, and brake lines, for any signs of corrosion consistent with a vehicle of this age. Finally, verify the service book history to confirm regular oil and filter changes have been carried out at appropriate intervals, and check the operation of all exterior lighting and the front windscreen wipers, as both have been flagged for defects in the recent test history.