2008 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · LB08 ABK

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile characterized by a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. While the car passed its most recent test in December 2025 at 112,653 miles, the history shows a recurring failure to address defects before the test date. The failure in November 2025 revealed a major exhaust leak and multiple lighting and brake issues, which were only rectified for the December re-test. This trend suggests the owner only performs the minimum work necessary to obtain a certificate rather than maintaining the vehicle to a high standard. The mileage progression is consistent with the vehicle's age, averaging approximately 6,200 miles per year over its 18-year life. There is a notable gap in records between 2019 and 2020, after which the car covered over 14,000 miles in a single year, indicating a shift in usage patterns. However, the frequency of MOT failures increased significantly as the vehicle crossed the 100,000-mile mark in 2022, suggesting that the low mileage did not protected the car from natural degradation of rubber and metal components. A buyer must scrutinise the front suspension and braking system, as these areas show chronic issues. The record documents multiple failures involving worn bushes, fractured coil springs, and shock absorbers between 2022 and 2024. The nearside rear outer brake disc was noted as pitted and scored in late 2025, and the 2024 failure for four tyres being at or below legal limits indicates a disregard for basic consumable upkeep. Physical inspection should focus on the structural integrity of the exhaust system to ensure the major leak noted in 2025 was properly repaired, and the state of the rear registration plate lamp, which has failed repeatedly over several years. Given the history of broken coil springs and worn bushes, a thorough check of the entire suspension geometry and mounting for corrosion is essential to prevent immediate mechanical failure after purchase.