2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · LR09 KXT

The most recent DVSA examination was carried out on 23 January 2026, at which point the vehicle was issued a clean PASS with two advisories relating to the front brake discs. Specifically, both the nearside and offside front inner brake discs were noted as worn, pitted or scored but not seriously weakened. Aside from these brake-related advisories, no other advisories or failures have been recorded during the entire visible MOT history, with eight consecutive passes dating back to January 2019. This represents a stable and well-maintained pattern overall, though the emergence of brake disc wear advisories at the most recent test suggests that the braking system is now beginning to show its age and warrants close attention before purchase. In terms of mileage, this 2009 Ford Focus has covered only 40,489 miles in approximately seventeen years, equating to a very modest annual average of around 2,382 miles per year. This is substantially below the typical usage profile for a vehicle of this age and suggests either light use, extended periods of standing, or a combination of both. While low mileage generally reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch and gearbox, prolonged periods of inactivity can be equally detrimental to other systems. Standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to moisture accumulation in brake hydraulic systems, corrosion on ferrous brake components, deterioration of rubber seals and suspension bushes, and flattening of tyre contact patches leading to uneven wear or sidewall cracking. Given the low annual mileage and the vehicle's age, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough physical inspection beyond the MOT record. The tyres should be examined closely for perishing or cracking of the sidewalls due to age-related rubber degradation, even if the tread depth appears adequate, as tyres older than around six to seven years often require replacement regardless of wear. The brake discs flagged on the most recent advisory should be inspected for surface pitting, lipping at the outer edge, and any signs of corrosion that could lead to shudder or uneven braking under load. It would be advisable to road test the vehicle and listen for any binding calipers, particularly after the car has been stationary, and to feel for vibration through the steering wheel or brake pedal during moderate to firm stops. The 12V battery should be load tested, as batteries that have sat partially discharged for long periods may fail without warning, and all fluid services should be verified by documentary evidence or physical checks, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and the age of the coolant, which typically requires renewal on a calendar basis rather than mileage. Additional due diligence should include verification of the service book history, as low annual mileage does not negate the requirement for time-based servicing such as annual oil and filter changes. Particular attention should be paid to the condition of the suspension, including the front coil springs, which are known to be susceptible to snapping on Ford Focus models of this era and would present as a noticeable drop in ride height or a clonking noise over uneven surfaces. The exhaust system should be inspected for corrosion, particularly at mounting points and joints, given the vehicle's age and exposure to road salt. Finally, a check for any oil leaks from the engine and gearbox seals, along with a thorough inspection underneath for rust on structural areas such as the subframes, sills and rear axle, would be prudent to ensure the long-term viability of what is otherwise a clean and consistent MOT history.