2021 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · LP55 HUG

The 2021 Ford Focus received its latest DVSA MOT test on 2026-03-16, achieving a passing result with two recorded advisories—both related to the rear tyres exhibiting signs of perishing at the sidewall, specifically the offside and near-side 215/50 18 tyres. While the vehicle passed, these advisories indicate a critical condition that should be addressed promptly, as sidewall perishing compromises tyre integrity and increases the risk of sudden failure. The previous MOT on 2025-04-10 was clean, suggesting a stable maintenance record with no prior defects, but the presence of these advisories now points to either prolonged standing or underutilisation leading to accelerated tyre degradation. The absence of further failures or advisories in the intervening period implies that the vehicle has not been subjected to severe or prolonged stress, but the advisories themselves warrant immediate attention to prevent further deterioration. The recorded mileage of 21,865 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 4,373 miles per annum, which is notably below the industry average for a car of this age. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of extended inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored rather than driven regularly. While low mileage can reduce wear on consumables like brakes, suspension components, and drivetrain elements, it also raises concerns about potential issues arising from prolonged standing. For instance, standing for long periods can lead to brake disc corrosion, binding calipers, or fluid degradation in the cooling and hydraulic systems, which may not be evident during a routine inspection but could become problematic over time. Additionally, the tyres, particularly those with sidewall perishing, may have been exposed to environmental factors that accelerate cracking, regardless of mileage. Given the advisories for tyre perishing, the prospective buyer should prioritise replacing the rear tyres immediately to eliminate the risk of sudden tyre failure and ensure safe roadworthiness. When inspecting the tyres, look for any signs of further cracking, bulges, or separation in the sidewall, and confirm the tread depth meets legal requirements of at least 1.6mm across the central 77% of the tread. During a test drive, listen for any unusual noises from the rear tyres, such as a grinding or scraping sound, which could indicate further deterioration. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues that should be investigated further. Beyond the tyre advisories, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s standing-related risks. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs and calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as this can lead to binding or reduced braking performance. Verify the condition of the 12-volt battery, as prolonged disuse can cause it to lose charge, leading to starting difficulties or electrical system failures. Check the fluid levels in the cooling system, brake fluid reservoir, and power steering reservoir, ensuring they are topped up and free from contamination. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, consider scheduling a service to confirm the service book records are up to date, particularly for fluid replacements such as the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, which should be renewed according to Ford’s recommended intervals—even if mileage is low, fluid degradation can occur over time due to exposure to heat and age. Finally, visually inspect the suspension components, including bushes and coil springs, for signs of wear or damage, as prolonged standing can exacerbate these issues.