2004 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · GF04 XWP

The vehicle shows a consistent history of structural corrosion and suspension wear that persists despite relatively low mileage. In the most recent test in February 2026 at 75,166 miles, the car passed with several advisories including a nearside front track rod end ball joint with play and a corroded offside rear coil spring. The tester noted corrosion on both the nearside and offside rear vehicle structures, though structural integrity remains intact. This specific structural issue has been present intermittently since 2021, indicating that the metalwork is beginning to degrade as the vehicle enters its third decade. At 75,166 miles over 22 years, the Focus has averaged only about 3,400 miles per year. This low usage often correlates with age-related degradation rather than mechanical strain, which is evident in the recurring issues with perished tyres. Between 2025 and 2026, the rear tyres were flagged for cracking and perishing, a common symptom of vehicles sitting for long periods. Additionally, the nearside front track rod end ball joint has been flagged for play in four consecutive annual tests dating back to 2022, suggesting this component has not been proactively replaced. Maintenance patterns suggest a reactive approach rather than preventative care. The record shows multiple failures for basic items such as bulbs, bonnet latches, and coolant leaks, which were only addressed immediately to the passing tests. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the presence of established corrosion on the rear subframe and lower suspension arms, noted since 2019, remains a long-term concern. A buyer should specifically inspect the rear subframe and mounting points to ensure that the surface rust has not progressed into structural thinning that would lead to an MOT failure in the near future.