2007 Ford Focus 1.8L Petrol · GP07 RZF

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 15 May 2026 resulted in a pass, with five advisories recorded. Four of these advisories relate to the front and rear tyres, noting inner-edge wear close to the legal limit alongside sidewall perishing and cracking, while the fifth pertains to further deterioration of the front suspension arm bushes that have been a recurring concern throughout the recent test history. Looking at the trajectory across the last seven annual tests, the maintenance trend is broadly stable in terms of pass outcomes but shows a gradual worsening in suspension component wear, with the advisories on front lower suspension arm pins and bushes first appearing in 2020 and reappearing every subsequent year on both nearside and offside. The 2026 test also introduces tyre perishing issues that had not previously been flagged, suggesting that age-related rubber degradation is now becoming a relevant factor alongside the existing wear patterns. The recorded mileage of 61,143 miles against a 2007 build year equates to approximately 3,218 miles per annum over the vehicle's life, which is exceptionally low and indicative of either very light use, long periods of standing, or a combination of both. The MOT records do not show any obvious mileage gaps between annual tests, suggesting the car has been used consistently albeit sparingly, which means the engine, gearbox and clutch have seen relatively low mechanical loading but may have been subjected to extended standing periods. Low annual mileage of this nature carries its own specific risks, including accelerated deterioration of rubber and plastic components, oxidation of brake discs and calipers from infrequent operation, and degradation of fluids over calendar time rather than through active service use. For a prospective buyer, the recurring front suspension arm bush advisories warrant particular physical scrutiny, as these have now been flagged across six consecutive MOT tests with progressive severity. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, or when turning at low speed, and visually inspect the bushes for perishing, splitting, or excessive movement when the wheel is levered by hand. Although the advisories state that movement is not yet excessive, the pattern strongly suggests these bushes are approaching the point at which they may fail an MOT, and replacing the front lower suspension arms or their bushes on a Mk2 Focus is a relatively straightforward but nonetheless worthwhile preventative maintenance item to budget for. The 2026 advisories also indicate that the front tyres are worn on the inner edge, which can be symptomatic of misalignment, worn suspension components, or incorrect tracking, so it would be prudent to have the geometry checked and to inspect the rear tyres for matching wear patterns. Given the vehicle's age and low mileage, several additional age-related inspections are advisable beyond what the MOT history alone reveals. The sidewall perishing and cracking already noted on multiple tyres indicates that all four tyres should be closely examined for DOT date codes, as rubber compounds degrade with calendar age regardless of tread depth, and replacement of the full set is likely imminent. Inspect the brake discs for surface corrosion and the calipers for seizing, as prolonged standing can cause binding that leads to uneven pad wear or pulling under braking. Verify the condition and age of the 12V battery, since batteries deteriorate with time even when mileage is low, and check that there is evidence of regular oil and filter changes despite the low annual mileage. Coolant, brake fluid and power steering fluid all degrade over time and should be renewed on a calendar basis, so request service history to confirm these intervals have been observed, and budget accordingly if records are incomplete. Finally, examine the underbody and wheel arches for any corrosion beginning to take hold, as a nineteen year old Ford Focus is approaching the age at which structural integrity issues become more prevalent, particularly in salt-affected areas.