2014 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · ML14 XMA

The most recent MOT on 25 June 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the past three years the trend has moved from outright failures in mid‑2023 – principally ABS, electronic stability control and a fractured nearside front coil spring – to a series of advisory items and clean passes, suggesting that the major faults have been remedied but that a number of wear‑related issues remain unresolved. The pattern points to an overall stabilising maintenance situation, provided the outstanding advisories are addressed promptly. At 131,405 mi the Focus has averaged roughly 11 000 mi per annum since its 2014 registration, which is typical for a family saloon of this age. The mileage does not indicate any periods of excessive short‑trip use that would accelerate wear on the clutch or gearbox, nor does it reveal long intervals of inactivity that could have caused corrosion of brake discs or tyre perishing. The moderate annual usage means that consumables such as suspension bushes, bushings and brake pads are likely approaching the end of their service lives, but the mileage alone does not raise any immediate red flags. A prospective buyer should concentrate on the areas highlighted by the MOT advisories. The nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint was noted to have slight play; this should be checked for clunking or uneven tyre wear when cornering, and the joint may need replacement if the play exceeds the manufacturer’s tolerance. The constant‑velocity boot on the nearside outer drive‑shaft joint was severely deteriorated in 2024, so a visual inspection for grease leakage and boot cracking is essential, as a failed boot can lead to joint failure and subsequent vibration. Both rear coil springs have been flagged for corrosion for several years; examine the springs for surface rust, loss of stiffness or cracks, and listen for any thumping or sagging when the vehicle is loaded. The off‑side rear tyre has been repeatedly described as cracked, perishing and close to the legal tread limit; verify the tyre’s sidewall condition, tread depth and uniformity, and be prepared to replace it immediately if any cracking or dry rot is evident. The vehicle also carries lingering electronic warnings – ABS and ESC fault lamps were recorded as major failures in 2023. Even though the most recent test passed, a diagnostic scan should be performed to confirm that the fault codes have been cleared and that the wheel‑speed sensors, hydraulic control unit and related wiring are functioning correctly; intermittent ABS faults can manifest as pulsating brake pedal feel or reduced stopping performance. Front brake pads were reported as thin and the front disc as pitted in 2021; inspect pad thickness and disc surface for scoring, and consider a brake service if the pads are near the minimum thickness or the disc shows deep grooves. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12‑year‑old battery should be load‑tested, the coolant and brake fluid inspected for moisture or contamination, and the service book checked for regular oil changes and timing‑belt or chain intervals. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the car’s mechanical health and any imminent maintenance costs.