2017 Ford Focus 1.0L Petrol · LL67 SSV

The most recent MOT inspection conducted in December 2025 resulted in a clean pass with no defects recorded. When reviewing the longitudinal maintenance history, there is a clear upward trend in the vehicle's condition. Following a period in late 2022 where several advisories were issued regarding tyre perishing, edge wear, and a puncture, the subsequent three years of testing have been entirely free of defects. This indicates that the previous tyre-related issues were addressed and that the vehicle has maintained a consistent standard of roadworthiness in recent years. The recorded mileage of 25,520 miles is exceptionally low for a nine-year-old Ford Focus, representing an annual average of approximately 2,836 miles. While this suggests minimal mechanical wear on the drivetrain, engine internals, and suspension assemblies, such low usage often implies the vehicle has been subject to long periods of inactivity or very short journeys. From a mechanical standpoint, this type of usage pattern can be as taxing as high mileage, as it may lead to issues such as moisture accumulation in the engine oil, carbon buildup, and the degradation of rubber components and fluids that are more sensitive to time than to distance travelled. During your inspection and test drive, you should pay close attention to components that suffer from age-related degradation rather than wear. Despite the clean MOT history, examine the tyres thoroughly for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur from UV exposure and standing time even if the tread depth remains high. Inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting, and listen for any signs of binding calipers or squealing from the braking system, which can result from infrequent use. It is also advisable to verify the service history to ensure that oil and fluid changes have been performed on a calendar basis rather than solely based on mileage, as oil and brake fluid can degrade and absorb moisture over time regardless of how little the car is driven. Finally, assess the health of the 12V battery, as vehicles used for short trips or left stationary for long periods often suffer from incomplete charging cycles, leading to reduced battery capacity and potential starting issues. Check the engine bay for any signs of fluid leaks or dried residue around seals, which can occur when gaskets lose their elasticity from lack of thermal cycling. A thorough check of the service book for stamps confirming annual or biennial maintenance will be crucial to confirm that the vehicle has been mechanically preserved despite its low mileage profile.