2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · LM09 RYT

A clear pattern of structural corrosion and chassis-level wear defines the mechanical profile of this 2009 Ford Focus, evidenced across all four recorded MOT tests. The most recent pass on 6 July 2026 was accompanied by advisories noting suspension arm corrosion front and rear, subframe corrosion front and rear, and damaged upper Macpherson strut mountings on both sides, alongside minor defects for a faulty offside wiper blade and an inoperative offside registration plate lamp. These advisories are not isolated observations; the same subframe and suspension arm corrosion was flagged in 2025 and again in 2024, indicating a progressive rather than static deterioration of the underbody structure. The 2024 test also recorded a failure for nearside rear brake pad wear alongside the corrosion advisories, while the 2023 test resulted in a failure for significantly excessive exhaust smoke and a rear brake lag defect. The 2022 record shows the most serious braking concern, with an axle imbalance failure on the rear brakes alongside another rear brake lag defect and a headlamp aim failure. Across the recorded history, the rear braking system and the front-to-rear underbody structure have been the most consistently flagged areas. Against its seventeen-year age, the recorded mileage of 144,637 miles equates to an annual accumulation of approximately 8,500 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this vintage and suggests regular rather than sporadic use. There are no significant gaps in the annual testing record, with tests recorded consecutively from 2022 through 2026, indicating the vehicle has remained in continuous service throughout this period. This consistency in usage combined with moderate annual mileage means wear rates on consumables and suspension components should be proportionate to the miles covered, yet the persistent advisories on subframe and suspension arm corrosion suggest environmental exposure has been a significant factor, possibly through winter road salt use, accelerating oxidation of ferrous components regardless of mileage. For a prospective buyer, the underbody corrosion pattern demands close physical inspection rather than reliance on the advisory wording alone. Lift the vehicle on a ramp if possible and examine the front and rear subframes, suspension arms, and strut top mountings for any perforation through the metal, flaking that reveals significant material loss, or distortion that could compromise structural integrity, as advisories only confirm corrosion is not currently serious. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn strut top mountings or deteriorated suspension arm bushes, and pay particular attention to steering precision, as corroded or weakened front suspension components can introduce vagueness or shimmy. Inspect the rear anti-roll bar linkage bushes for play by hand, as these were flagged as worn in 2025 and are prone to splitting with age on the Focus. The braking system requires equally careful scrutiny given the recurring defects and advisories. On test, press the brake pedal firmly from speed and check for any pulling to one side or a delayed response from the rear wheels, which would suggest the brake lag issues noted in 2022 and 2023 have returned through seized caliper slide pins or a failing rear wheel cylinder. With the engine running from cold, observe the exhaust for blue or heavy grey smoke under acceleration, as the 2023 failure for emissions significantly exceeding limits could indicate worn valve stem seals or piston ring wear typical of higher-mileage Focus engines. Verify that both headlamps are set to the correct height, as the 2022 test recorded an offside aim defect, and confirm all registration plate lamps and wiper blades function correctly to address the minor items from the latest test. Any corrosion on brake pipes or flexible hoses should be treated as an immediate rectification item, given the age of the underbody components.