2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · LS59 ONG

The most recent MOT, dated 5 December 2025, was passed but recorded an advisory for a minor oil leak that was not deemed excessive. Over the last six years the vehicle has alternated between clean passes and isolated failures, the most serious being a non‑functional front windscreen washer in November 2025 and a headlamp aim fault together with front‑tyre wear warnings in November 2023. The recurrence of the oil‑leak advisory in both 2025 tests and the tyre‑wear notice suggests a modest deterioration in those areas, yet the overall pattern is one of generally satisfactory compliance with no major safety‑critical defects persisting across successive tests. At 102,068 miles the 2009 Focus averages roughly 6,000 miles per annum, which is low for a vehicle of its age. Such modest annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, both of which can accelerate age‑related deterioration despite the low wear figures. Low‑usage cars can develop rubber perishing, battery sulphation, and corrosion of brake components, while any spikes in mileage that may have occurred between recorded tests are not evident from the MOT data. The relatively low total mileage does, however, mean that many wear items such as the timing chain, suspension bushings and drivetrain bearings are likely to have accumulated less mechanical fatigue than on a higher‑mileage counterpart. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the oil‑leak advisory. Verify the source – whether it is a valve‑cover gasket, oil filter housing or a minor seal – and inspect for oil spots on the engine bay floor and around the sump. A persistent leak can lead to low oil level, increased engine wear and, if it reaches the exhaust, smoke or a noticeable oil smell. The front washer system, which failed in the most recent test, should be checked for a functional pump, intact hoses and a clear nozzle; a non‑working washer can compromise visibility in rain. The off‑side front tyre was flagged twice for edge wear close to the legal limit, indicating possible mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes or uneven camber. On a test drive listen for a subtle thump or feel a pull to one side, and examine the tyre for tread depth variation across the width. The headlamp aim defect noted in 2023 should be verified – mis‑aimed beams can blind oncoming traffic and reduce effective illumination for the driver; a simple alignment at a workshop will resolve this. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a thorough visual and tactile inspection is essential. Examine all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, especially on the spare if fitted, as age‑related perishing can occur even on unused tyres. Check the battery for swelling, corrosion on the terminals and verify voltage under load; a battery older than ten years often requires replacement regardless of apparent charge. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding – a common issue in cars that sit for long periods. Look for signs of corrosion on the chassis, suspension mounting points and exhaust system, and confirm that all fluid levels (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid) are at the correct specifications and appear clear, as time‑based degradation can occur irrespective of mileage. A complete service history, if available, will further corroborate that routine maintenance such as timing‑belt replacement, coolant flushes and filter changes have been observed, providing additional confidence in the vehicle’s long‑term reliability.