2004 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · KL04 KZY

The 2004 Ford Focus currently holds a failed MOT status following its most recent test on 29 October 2024 at 103,194 miles, where no specific defects were recorded despite the failure outcome. The maintenance trend over the past three years is broadly stable, with the vehicle consistently passing on its first annual attempt in both 2022 and 2023, each preceded by a same-day or near-same-day failure with no listed defects. This pattern suggests the failures likely resulted from minor administrative or easily rectified issues rather than recurring mechanical faults. The absence of recorded advisories or defects across all five tests indicates the vehicle has not presented any significant structural, mechanical, or emissions concerns during the documented period. The mileage accumulation tells a consistent story. Between the October 2022 pass at 91,733 miles and the October 2023 pass at 98,349 miles, the vehicle covered 6,616 miles in twelve months. From October 2023 to the October 2024 failure at 103,194 miles, it added a further 4,845 miles. This is a modest annual figure for a vehicle of this age, averaging roughly 4,700 miles per year over its twenty-two-year life. The gradual decline in annual mileage in recent years points to lighter, local use rather than sustained long-distance driving. No unusual gaps or sudden spikes appear in the record, and the odometer progression reads as plausible and consistent. Despite the clean MOT record, a prospective buyer should still carry out a thorough physical inspection. The 2004 Focus is now over two decades old, and structural corrosion around sills, subframes, and suspension mounting points remains a common concern on vehicles of this generation, regardless of mileage. Suspension components including front lower arm bushes, rear trailing arm bushes, and coil springs should be checked for deterioration, as age-related degradation can occur even with light use. Brake condition merits close attention, particularly rear calipers and handbrake linkage mechanisms, which are known to seize or bind on this model. The exhaust system and catalytic converter should be inspected for corrosion and emissions compliance, given the vehicle's age. Tyre condition and age are also worth verifying, as older tyres with adequate tread depth can still present a safety risk if the rubber has perished.