2009 Ford Focus 2.0L Diesel · GF59 FWH

The most recent MOT test on this Ford Focus, conducted on 13 January 2026, was recorded as a pass with no defects recorded, which is the more favourable of the two outcomes logged on that same date. Prior to that pass, an immediate failure was issued for an excessively worn suspension arm pin or bush on the offside front, classified as a PRS (pass after rectification) on the pass certificate, indicating the issue was addressed before the vehicle was finally cleared. Looking at the wider history, the vehicle has demonstrated a broadly stable maintenance trend with annual passes stretching back several years and only isolated advisories, though the cluster of defects affecting the front suspension and front tyres suggests attention should be paid to front-end wear items. The advisory from January 2024 noting corrosion on the nearside front coil spring, combined with the recent suspension arm bush failure, points to progressive degradation of the front suspension components which is entirely consistent with the mileage and age of this vehicle. With recorded mileage of 123,556 miles spread across seventeen years, this Focus has averaged approximately 7,268 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a car of this vintage and suggests consistent but moderate use rather than neglect or excessive driving. There are no significant unexplained gaps in the MOT record that would imply the vehicle has been standing unused for prolonged periods, and the mileage progression between tests is gradual and plausible, which is reassuring for overall mechanical integrity. However, even at this moderate annual mileage, a seventeen year old car will have accrued substantial cumulative wear on suspension components, braking hardware, engine mounts, and drivetrain items, so it should not be assumed that low annual mileage equates to low overall wear. The fact that the car is being used regularly means consumables such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and fluids are likely to have been replaced in line with normal service schedules. Given the recurring front suspension defects and advisories, particular attention should be paid to the condition of the front suspension and steering components during inspection and on the test drive. The failed offside front suspension arm pin or bush is a wear item that, once replaced, can place additional stress on related components, so the nearside arm, anti-roll bar drop links, and bushes should be physically checked for splitting, perishing, or excessive play. On the road, listen for clonks or knocking noises over speed humps, uneven tyre wear particularly on the inner or outer edges, vagueness in steering response, or any pulling to one side under braking. The advisory regarding the nearside front coil spring corrosion should also prompt a close visual inspection of all four springs and the strut towers for advanced corrosion, as corroded springs can fail suddenly and may also indicate broader underbody corrosion. On the test drive, any bouncing after bumps, sagging corners, or harsh ride quality should be treated as immediate concerns requiring rectification. Beyond the recorded suspension issues, a prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection tailored to the age and mileage of this Focus. Tyres should be examined not only for tread depth but for sidewall cracking and perishing, which are common on older tyres regardless of remaining tread, and the spare should be checked for age-related degradation. The twelve-volt battery is well beyond its typical service life and should be load tested, while brake discs should be inspected for corrosion ridges, pitting, or binding calipers which are common on cars used for shorter journeys. Brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid should be checked for age-related degradation rather than purely mileage intervals, with brake fluid particularly susceptible to moisture absorption over time. Finally, verify the service book stamps and ensure timing belt, water pump, and ancillary drive belt replacement intervals have been observed according to Ford's schedule, as these are critical age-related maintenance items on a vehicle of this vintage.