2004 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · HS53 FNU

The most recent MOT test for this 2004 Ford Focus was conducted on 2023-12-14 and passed, though it did not entirely clear the vehicle of its past issues. The overall maintenance trend over the past decade is concerning rather than stable or improving. The vehicle has repeatedly failed critical components such as the near-side rear suspension arm, offside rear tyre integrity, and near-side stop lamps, with some failures being classified as dangerous. While there were periods of passing MOTs, the pattern suggests persistent underlying wear and structural degradation, particularly in the suspension and tyre systems, which have been flagged multiple times—sometimes as advisories and other times as major defects. The front exhaust mounting and minor leaks also recur, indicating potential long-term fatigue in mounting hardware or seal integrity. These recurring advisories and failures point to a vehicle that has not been adequately maintained to prevent progressive deterioration, especially in high-stress areas like the suspension and tyres. The recorded mileage of 114,639 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 22 years represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of around 5,211 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such a low mileage often suggests the car has been stored for extended periods, particularly given the significant gaps between MOT tests—some spanning over three years. This prolonged inactivity can exacerbate issues like corrosion, particularly in areas prone to moisture exposure such as the suspension mountings, seat belt anchorage, and exhaust system. While low mileage might initially seem appealing, the vehicle’s history of repeated MOT failures hints at underlying structural and mechanical wear that could have developed from prolonged standing rather than from normal usage. The near-side rear suspension arm failure in 2022-12-07, for example, was due to corrosion seriously weakening the component, a classic symptom of prolonged exposure to damp conditions. Given the vehicle’s age, mileage, and MOT history, the buyer should conduct a meticulous inspection focusing on the suspension, tyres, and corrosion-prone areas. The offside rear suspension arm and near-side rear suspension mounting have been flagged multiple times as corroded, with some failures being classified as dangerous. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles in the rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or at speed, which may indicate loose or failing suspension components. Inspect the rear suspension arms and mountings visually for signs of rust or deformation, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could suggest misalignment or suspension issues. The near-side rear tyre bulge from the 2021 MOT failure is particularly critical—this indicates a structural failure that must be addressed immediately, as it poses a safety risk. If the tyre has been repaired or patched, verify that the repair is properly sealed and not compromised. For fluids and general maintenance, the buyer should prioritise checking the brake system, as the near-side front tyre and stop lamps have been problematic in the past. Inspect the brake discs for signs of corrosion, pitting, or binding calipers, which could lead to reduced braking performance or failure. Listen for grinding noises when applying the brakes, which may signal worn brake pads or warped discs. The front exhaust mounting and minor leaks suggest that the exhaust system may require attention, as persistent leaks can indicate failing seals or mounting hardware that may need replacement. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for health, as prolonged inactivity can lead to weak or dead batteries. Finally, check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety, especially if the tyres have been stored for extended periods. Ensure all fluids—brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil—are topped up and free of contaminants, as time-based degradation can occur even with low mileage. If possible, verify the service book for any recorded maintenance, particularly for suspension servicing, tyre rotations, and fluid changes, which are critical for a vehicle of this age.