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Official DVLA Record
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2004 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · KA04 AFN

KA04 AFN

2004 Ford Focus (1.6L, petrol). First registered 02 Jul 2004. Recorded mileage 110,328 miles. MOT valid until 10 May 2027. Taxed until 01 Feb 2027.

Make & Model
FORD FOCUS
Year / Origin
2004 · Borehamwood (Luton)
Safety Recall
Unknown
MOT Status
Valid until 10 May 2027
Road Tax
Taxed (01 Feb 2027)
Recorded Mileage
110,328 mi
ULEZ Compliance
Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
Fuel & Engine
Petrol · 1.6L
Reliability Guide
Common Faults
MOT Status
Valid
Valid until 10 May 2027
Tax Status
Taxed
Tax due 01 Feb 2027
Fuel Type
Petrol
Year
2004
Engine
1596cc
Mechanical Assessment

AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.

The vehicle’s most recent MOT on 2026-04-30 revealed three failures, including corroded offside rear coil springs, a suspension arm ball joint with slight play, and a severely deteriorated CV boot. These issues mirror earlier findings from 2025 and 2024, indicating a persistent lack of maintenance. The suspension and drivetrain components show no signs of resolution, while the recurring corrosion suggests exposure to harsh conditions or inadequate protection. Roadworthiness is compromised, with structural and mechanical risks requiring immediate attention. The vehicle’s mileage of 110,328 miles over 22 years averages 5,015 miles annually, significantly below the UK average for its age. This low usage may explain prolonged inactivity, exacerbating corrosion and wear on static components. The 2024 test noted a pitted brake disc and sub-frame corrosion, while 2025 entries highlighted electrical and oil leaks. The 2026 test’s failures suggest unresolved issues, with no evidence of corrective action between 2024 and 2026. The sparse record lacks detailed repair history, leaving the extent of prior interventions unclear. A buyer should prioritize inspecting the suspension system for further corrosion or wear, particularly the rear coil springs and front ball joints. The CV boot’s deterioration warrants immediate replacement to prevent drivetrain failure. Brake discs, especially the nearside front, and the exhaust system’s structural integrity require close examination. Electrical components, including headlamp alignment and stop lamps, should be tested for functionality. Persistent corrosion and unresolved mechanical faults signal potential hidden costs, necessitating a professional assessment before purchase.
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KA04 AFN Key Findings

  • 5 MOT tests recorded
  • Latest MOT passed on 30/04/2026
  • 110,328 miles recorded at latest MOT
  • 2 historical MOT failures
  • 3 defects noted at the latest MOT
  • Recurring suspension items (4 mentions)

Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.

KA04 AFN MOT History

Vehicle record last updated: 16 Oct 2026, 20:44
MOT Analysis

Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.

5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2004 Ford Focus (KA04 AFN) between April 2024 and April 2026.

The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.

The most recent test on 30 April 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.

Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (4 issues), Windscreen (2 issues), Lighting (2 issues), Brakes (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.

In total 8 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.

PASS
FAIL
ADVISORY

KA04 AFN Mileage History

  1. 26/04/202488,449 mi
  2. 12/05/202599,581 mi+11,132 mi
  3. 12/05/202599,581 mi
  4. 30/04/2026110,328 mi+10,747 mi
  5. 30/04/2026110,328 mi

Average of roughly 10,889 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.

Technical Specifications

May be subject to ULEZ charges

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MOT Roadworthiness Analysis
75
/ 100 · Good
DVSA Test Records Evaluated

MOT Roadworthiness: Good

This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.

✓ Valid MOT
✓ Taxed
! Average MOT pass rate (60%)
! Older vehicle
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OUTSTANDING FINANCE

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INSURANCE WRITE-OFF

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POLICE STOLEN (PNC)

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SALVAGE & AUCTION

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IMPORTED RECORD

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EXPORTED MARKER

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SCRAPPED RECORD

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CERTIFICATE OF DESTRUCTION

Statutory CoD

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V5C LOGBOOK & KEEPERS

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Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory

Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.

Buying Score
58/100
Risk Level
Medium
Medium
Est. Annual Cost
£950-£1,100
Mileage
At 110,328 miles, the mileage is slightl...

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution unless the service history is impeccable. While the car is currently roadworthy, the recent MOT history shows a pattern of structural corrosion and suspension wear that may require ongoing investment.

When inspecting this specific Focus, pay close attention to the underside. The 2024 MOT noted rear sub-frame corrosion, and the 2026 test found a corroded rear coil spring. Ensure the sub-frame has been treated or replaced, as structural rust is a known failure point for this generation of Focus. You should also ask for a full service history to ensure the offside front oil leak noted in 2025 was properly addressed and not just monitored.

Test drive the car over uneven surfaces to listen for any clicking noises, which would indicate the CV joint replaced in April is already failing or failing. Check the headlight alignment, as the car failed a previous test for incorrect aim. Given the age and mileage, verify if the timing belt has been replaced recently, as this is a critical maintenance item for this engine.

The 1596cc petrol engine is relatively economical for a hatchback, typically yielding between 35-42 MPG depending on driving. As a 2004 vehicle, it likely falls into a low tax band and modest insurance group, making it affordable for younger drivers.

Maintenance costs for this model are generally low as parts are widely available and inexpensive. However, you should budget for occasional suspension repairs given the recent MOT failures. Estimated annual running costs including fuel and basic maintenance are around £900-£1,100.

Focus heavily on the front and rear suspension. The most recent MOT identified an offside front ball joint with play and a deteriorated CV boot; check for any grease spray around the wheel arches which would indicate a fresh leak. Inspect the rear coil springs for surface rust or cracks, as corrosion was flagged in the latest test.

Examine the engine bay for signs of the offside front oil leak mentioned in 2025. Look for wet residue around the sump cover or the front of the engine. Additionally, inspect the rear sub-frame for the corrosion noted back in 2024 to ensure it hasn't progressed beyond 'not seriously weakened'.

This 2004 Ford Focus has covered approximately 110,328 miles, which is consistent with its age but slightly above. While it has passed its most recent MOT, the history reveals recurring issues with suspension components, CV boots, and oil leaks. The 1.6L petrol engine is generally robust, but the physical condition of the chassis suggests age is beginning to show.

The Mk2 Ford Focus (early 2000s) is known for good handling but is prone to rust on sub-frames and rear suspension components.

Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.

Data Sources

DVSA

Official MOT test logs & failure reasons

DVLA

Tax, registration & powertrain specs

Experian

Finance, stolen markers & total loss

AI Analysis

Historical fault & advisory patterns