2017 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · LL17 OFD

A persistent pattern of rear-tyre wear defines the mechanical history of this 2017 Ford Focus. Across four of the last five MOT tests, advisory notices have flagged the offside rear and nearside rear tyres as worn close to the legal limit or worn on edge, and in 2023 the offside rear was also noted as slightly damaged or perishing. These recurring advisories point to a chronic geometry, suspension, or corner-loading issue rather than ordinary tyre ageing. The most recent test on 2026-07-06 returned a clean pass with no defects recorded, which suggests the underlying wear pattern may have been addressed through alignment or component replacement, but a prospective buyer should not assume the issue is resolved purely on the strength of that pass. Additionally, the 2024 test recorded a failure due to an illegible rear registration plate inscription, with an earlier advisory noting plate deterioration, so there is a documented history of rear-end condition issues worth visual inspection. Recorded mileage of 57,848 miles over approximately nine years equates to around 6,428 miles per year, broadly in line with the national average for a car of this age and segment. MOT tests have been conducted annually without any significant gaps, indicating the vehicle has remained in continuous road use rather than undergoing a long-term lay-up that might bring corrosion or stale-fluid concerns. The annual accumulations appear steady, and there is no recorded evidence of rapid mileage escalation that would suggest heavy motorway use or commercial-style wear. For a vehicle of this profile and mileage, consumable wear on braking components, suspension bushes, and drivetrain mountings would be expected to be proportionate to use rather than accelerated. Given the documented rear-tyre wear pattern, the test drive should place particular emphasis on suspension behaviour. Listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear over uneven surfaces, which can indicate worn trailing arm bushes, top mounts, or shock absorber mounting conditions, all known wear points on Focus models of this generation. Pay attention to any tendency for the vehicle to drift, wander, or require constant steering correction, as this may reflect rear wheel alignment issues stemming from worn suspension components rather than simply a tracking adjustment. The rear should also be inspected for any uneven settling or sagging, which would suggest weakened coil springs. On a straight, flat road at motorway speed, release the steering briefly to verify the vehicle tracks true without pull, and check that the steering wheel returns to centre smoothly after cornering. Braking performance and component condition warrant close attention in view of the vehicle's age and mileage. Test the brakes progressively from higher speeds and feel for any pedal pulsation or vibration through the steering wheel, which could indicate warped front discs, or through the seat suggesting rear disc distortion. Listen for any grinding, scraping, or squealing, particularly on cold start, as worn pads or binding calipers are common on Focus models approaching this mileage. Inspect the wheels and visible brake lines for any signs of corrosion, and check the handbrake holds the vehicle firmly on an incline, as rear caliper issues are not uncommon on this platform. Finally, verify that all exterior and registration plate lamps function correctly and that the rear plate itself is clean and legible, addressing the specific defects recorded in 2023 and 2024.