2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · GL59 BDF

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Focus occurred on 2024-12-07 and resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround from the previous year’s failures. While the vehicle’s MOT history shows a mix of passing and failing tests, the trend over the last three years is not uniformly deteriorating. The 2023-11-28 test, which included both failures and advisories, was followed by a passing MOT in 2024, suggesting that some issues may have been addressed or that the vehicle’s condition stabilised after the earlier failures. However, the recurring advisories—particularly around the front suspension ball joints and rear coil springs—indicate ongoing wear that demands closer attention, as these components are critical to handling, steering precision, and structural integrity. The fact that the 2022 MOT also flagged similar suspension-related concerns, alongside oil leaks and tyre wear, implies a pattern of mechanical fatigue that could escalate if not monitored. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 115,361 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,786 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a 17-year-old car. This figure does not suggest excessive wear from high mileage alone, but it does indicate prolonged exposure to road conditions that accelerate component degradation, particularly in suspension, brakes, and engine systems. The absence of significant mileage gaps—such as those that might occur with long periods of inactivity—suggests the car has been in regular use, which can lead to accelerated wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and lubricants. However, the oil leak advisory from 2022 and 2023 highlights the need to investigate the root cause, as persistent oil loss can compromise engine efficiency, lubrication, and ultimately, engine longevity. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the suspension system, given the recurring advisories on the front lower suspension arms and rear coil springs. The slight play in the offside front ball joint should be verified with a careful inspection for excessive movement or noise during steering—particularly at low speeds or when cornering sharply—while the corroded rear coil springs may exhibit signs of sagging or uneven ride height. Listen for clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps, as these can indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged strut mounts. Additionally, the oil leak should be traced to its source, as an engine oil leak can lead to overheating, reduced lubrication, and long-term engine damage if left unaddressed. Test drive the vehicle to check for any signs of uneven tyre wear, which may correlate with the near-side front tyre being worn close to the legal limit; inspect the tyres for cracks or perishing in the sidewall, especially given the vehicle’s age. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also focus on the vehicle’s electrical systems, as the registration plate lamps and position lamps failing in multiple tests suggest potential wiring issues or bulb failures that could recur. Given the car’s age, the battery should be tested for strength, as standing for extended periods can lead to corrosion in terminals or a weakened hold on the alternator’s charge output. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for long periods, as this can cause uneven wear or reduced braking performance. Finally, while the MOT history is not pristine, the recent passing test provides a positive baseline, but it is advisable to schedule a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to address the outstanding advisories and ensure the vehicle remains roadworthy and safe for the foreseeable future.