2016 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · LM66 FVO

The most recent DVSA examination on 22 September 2025 resulted in a PASS outcome, although four advisory items were recorded against the vehicle. Looking back across the documented MOT history, this 2016 Ford Focus presents a broadly stable but increasingly advisory-laden maintenance profile. Since 2019, the vehicle has passed every test without encountering any fail-level defects at subsequent attempts, which is a positive indicator. That said, the volume of advisory notices has grown notably over the last three tests, particularly in relation to tyres and suspension components, suggesting that consumable and chassis wear items are beginning to demand closer attention as the vehicle accumulates higher mileage and age. With 104,190 miles recorded over a ten-year lifespan, the annual average stands at roughly 10,419 miles per year, which sits squarely within the typical range for a privately used family hatchback of this generation. The mileage progression appears steady and consistent, without any significant standing periods or unusually rapid accumulation that would raise immediate red flags. This level of use is sufficient to keep mechanical components, seals, and brake systems regularly worked, which is generally favourable, but it also means that high-wear items such as clutch, suspension bushes, brake discs, and exhaust mountings will have accrued meaningful wear commensurate with the odometer reading. The advisory history warrants close scrutiny from a prospective buyer, particularly regarding the front suspension. Lower suspension arm rear bushes were flagged for deterioration on both sides in 2022 and again on the nearside in 2023, and these components are a known wear item on the Ford Focus of this era. On the road, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end when traversing speed humps, uneven road surfaces, or during sharp direction changes at low speed, and feel for vagueness or imprecise steering response. A physical inspection should involve raising the vehicle or rocking the wheels to check for play in the lower arms. The brake system should also be evaluated for shudder under heavy pedal application and for any signs of binding calipers, which can develop on higher-mileage vehicles. The 2025 advisories concerning front tyres worn close to the legal limit on both inner edges are particularly noteworthy, as this pattern of wear is frequently symptomatic of suspension geometry misalignment, worn bushes, or tracking irregularities, all of which align with the recurring chassis advisories. A four-wheel alignment check and inspection of front suspension components should be undertaken before purchasing, and budget should be reserved for a replacement set of front tyres. Beyond the recorded advisories, the age and mileage profile of this Focus demands the usual calendar-based inspections that do not always appear on MOT records. Tyre sidewalls and tread should be carefully examined for perishing or cracking, as the rear tyres have now received perishing advisories at three consecutive tests, indicating progressive rubber degradation that may soon necessitate replacement regardless of remaining tread depth. Brake discs, particularly those at the rear, are susceptible to corrosion if the vehicle has been used predominantly for short journeys, so a visual check for lipping and scoring is advisable. The 12V battery, coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil should be regarded as age-sensitive items likely due for renewal based on the ten-year service span. Verify that the service book has been stamped at appropriate intervals, the cambelt or timing chain replacement history is documented in line with manufacturer schedules, and the rear exhaust heat shield noted as adrift in 2023 has been properly secured to prevent rattling against the underbody.