2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · GF09 CVM

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-21 resulted in a clean pass, though it came with several persistent advisories that suggest ongoing wear and potential long-term issues requiring attention. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2023, the recurring advisories—particularly around the anti-roll bar ball joints, brake components, and coil springs—indicate a pattern of mechanical degradation rather than a sudden deterioration. The 2025 and 2026 tests reveal a trend of minor but critical wear in suspension and braking systems, with the 2026 failure highlighting a major fluid leak in the offside rear shock absorber, which would have rendered the vehicle unsafe if not addressed. This suggests that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, the owner should be proactive in monitoring these components to prevent further failure, especially given the high mileage and the wear already evident. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 174,772 miles at 17 years old represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 10,281 miles per year, which is typical for this age group but still significant for a suspension and braking system that has endured considerable stress. The absence of major mileage gaps indicates consistent use, which accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension bushings, and coil springs. The high mileage has likely contributed to the observed corrosion in the coil springs and the excessive wear in the anti-roll bar ball joints, both of which are critical for vehicle stability and handling. Without a period of low or no usage, the wear progression may have been more gradual, but the cumulative effect is undeniable, requiring careful inspection of these components before any further deterioration compromises safety. For the prospective buyer, the most pressing concerns stem from the recurring advisories and the history of major defects in suspension and braking systems. The offside rear and front coil springs show corrosion, which can lead to structural failure if left unchecked, potentially causing excessive body roll or even suspension failure during cornering. The anti-roll bar ball joints—both near and offside—have exhibited excessive play and wear, particularly in the drop link and gaiter split areas. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the rear suspension during cornering or over bumps, and check for uneven suspension travel or binding in the anti-roll bars. The brake discs are pitted but not seriously weakened, while the pads are thin, indicating ongoing friction and potential heat damage. Inspect the brake discs for warping or uneven wear, and listen for grinding or squealing during braking, which could signal caliper binding or pad wear to near metal contact. In addition to the mechanical checks, verify the brake system’s hydraulic integrity by ensuring no leaks are visible around the calipers or brake hoses, and confirm that the brake fluid level is adequate and free from contamination. The registration plate lamp and position lamps are major failures, which may require replacement of the bulbs or wiring, but these are not safety-critical issues unless they affect visibility during low-light conditions. The headlamp beam aim and lens condition are also critical for visibility, so ensure the aim is correct and the lenses are clean to prevent glare or reduced light output. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, consider a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for corrosion or leaks, as well as a check of the 12V battery and starter motor, which can fail silently over time. Finally, examine the tyres for sidewall perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileage due to age-related cracking, and ensure the tread depth meets legal requirements. If the tyres are worn beyond 3mm, replace them to maintain grip and safety.