2018 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · LL60 YDL

A pattern of late-life rear brake wear and a pair of recent tyre-related failures define the mechanical picture of this 2018 Ford Focus. Across the three recorded test cycles, the only outright failures both involve the offside rear tyre: an incorrect size fitment (205/55 R16 on an axle mixing tyre sizes) flagged as a major defect in April 2026, and a deep cut exposing ply or cords recorded as a major defect exactly one year earlier in April 2025. The 2026 test was conducted twice on the same day, with an initial failed ticket followed immediately by a pass once the tyre mix was resolved, indicating that the failure was straightforwardly rectified rather than indicative of deeper structural concerns. Beyond these tyre episodes, the record is otherwise light on defects, but the most recent pass did carry two advisories noting that the rear brake pads are close to their wear limit and that the rear brake discs show a slight lipped condition. The cumulative picture is therefore one of a car whose roadworthiness is currently intact but whose rear braking components are approaching a service threshold, combined with an unusual clustering of rear-tyre issues. Mileage accumulation over the recorded life sits at 48,779 miles across approximately eight years, equating to a roughly 6,100-mile annual average. This is broadly in line with typical UK usage for a family hatchback of this age, neither suggesting heavy motorway commuting nor extended periods of standing. Importantly, the three MOT entries cover April 2024, April 2025, and April 2026, indicating the vehicle has been tested consecutively each year with no gaps in the record. The mileage progression between tests cannot be precisely calculated from the data provided, but the consistent annual testing and absence of extended lay-up periods mean there is no obvious evidence of long-term standing that would raise concerns about seized callipers, perished coolant hoses, or 12V battery degradation. For a prospective buyer, the most immediate attention should be directed to the rear braking system. With both rear pads flagged as close to limit and the discs showing a measurable lip, budget for replacement of pads at the very least, and inspect the discs carefully for wear beyond the advisory threshold, as lipping suggests the discs have already accumulated enough material loss to potentially require replacement alongside the pads. On a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing from the rear under light braking, feel for pulsation through the foot pedal that might indicate disc runout, and check that the handbrake holds the vehicle firmly on an incline, as rear calipers on Focus models of this generation can develop sticking or uneven operation once pads and discs begin to wear together. Inspect the rear calipers visually for any signs of uneven pad wear across the axle, which would point to a binding or seizing caliper rather than normal service wear. The repeated offside rear tyre failures warrant specific scrutiny before purchase. Confirm that all four tyres currently fitted are of matching size, load index, and speed rating, with a sensible tread depth across the full width of the contact patch, and that none show sidewall bulges, cracking, or exposed cords. The two consecutive years of major defects on the same corner tyre raise the possibility of a recurring issue such as kerbing damage, a tracking misalignment causing accelerated shoulder wear, or simply replacement with an unsuitable part. Have the wheel alignment checked, particularly rear camber and thrust angle, to rule out a geometric cause. Finally, on the road, monitor for any pulling to one side under braking, listen for suspension knocks over uneven surfaces which could indicate worn rear bushes or damper issues not yet flagged by MOT, and confirm the steering returns to centre smoothly without vibration, as the Focus rear suspension geometry is sensitive to alignment deviations that can also accelerate rear tyre wear.