2007 Ford Focus 2.5L Petrol · MB07 ADB

The most recent MOT test for this 2007 Ford Focus occurred on 2025-11-11, resulting in a clean pass with no defects recorded. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that warrant cautious consideration. The most critical failures occurred in 2025-11-08, where the near- and offside rear coil springs were found fractured, a condition that poses immediate structural and ride integrity risks. Additionally, the near-side front tyre exhibited exposed ply or cords, a dangerous failure under UK law that would have necessitated immediate rectification. While the vehicle passed subsequent MOTs, the presence of advisories—such as corroded coil springs in 2020 and deteriorated suspension components in 2021—suggests a history of wear progression that may not have been fully addressed. The failure to correct these issues promptly could indicate either substandard maintenance or a lack of proactive servicing, raising concerns about the long-term reliability of the suspension and mechanical integrity. The recorded mileage of 148,826 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 19 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 7,833 miles per year, which is typical for a car of this age but does not necessarily reflect high wear. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit evidence of rapid mileage accumulation, but the presence of multiple advisories—particularly those related to suspension and fluid degradation—suggests that the vehicle has likely undergone varying levels of stress. The fact that the car has not been driven at a significantly higher rate than average could mean it has been used more conservatively, potentially delaying the onset of wear-related failures. Yet, the combination of high mileage and the documented coil spring failures implies that suspension components have been subjected to significant stress over time, necessitating careful scrutiny of remaining suspension systems and potential long-term consequences of neglecting these issues. Given the vehicle’s MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, focusing on the rear coil springs, anti-roll bar linkages, and drive shaft joints. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, particularly when transitioning between rough and smooth surfaces, as this may indicate further coil spring deterioration or bush wear. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could signal suspension misalignment or binding calipers, and inspect the front and rear tyres for signs of exposed cords or excessive tread wear. The exposed ply in the near-side front tyre from the 2025 MOT failure suggests that the tyre should be replaced immediately, as further use could lead to catastrophic failure. Additionally, verify that the offside rear fog lamp is functional, as its non-operation was a major failure in 2025. If the coil springs have already failed, the buyer should be prepared for potentially high repair costs, as replacing both rear coil springs may require dismantling the rear subframe, which can be labour-intensive and expensive. For practical checks beyond the MOT history, the buyer should examine the vehicle’s tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can weaken the tyre structure over time, even if the tread remains legal. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories of an oil leak in 2021, check under the vehicle for any persistent fluid stains and inspect the engine bay for signs of contamination or overheating. The near-side front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint showed slight play in 2021, which could worsen with continued use, so the buyer should visually inspect the linkage for excessive movement or wear. Furthermore, since the vehicle has not been serviced at regular intervals, it is advisable to verify the presence of service book stamps or receipts for fluid changes, particularly the brake fluid, which can degrade over time even if not used. Finally, given the standing corrosion advisory from 2020, inspect the undercarriage for signs of rust, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and suspension mounts, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate structural degradation. A comprehensive check of the battery health, including testing its voltage and ensuring clean terminals, is also recommended, as older vehicles are more prone to electrical issues.