2021 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · MM70 FSU

The most recent MOT, carried out on 6 January 2026, resulted in a pass but highlighted several advisories: the nearside front tyre, nearside rear tyre and off‑side rear tyre are all worn close to the legal limit, the front brake pads are thin, and the rear brake discs show wear and surface pitting though they are not yet structurally compromised. The preceding two MOTs in January 2025 and January 2024 also recorded similar brake‑disc wear and the emergence of rear‑axle corrosion. The pattern indicates a steady, modest deterioration rather than an improvement, with tyre wear and brake‑disc condition persisting year on year and corrosion progressing from slight to more noticeable. At 61,046 miles the 2021 Ford Focus has logged roughly 12,200 miles per annum, which is above the average for a vehicle of its class. This level of usage suggests that consumables such as tyres, brake pads, discs and suspension components will have experienced accelerated wear compared with a lower‑mileage example. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage, implying the car has been driven regularly rather than sitting idle for long periods, which tends to exacerbate corrosion but also keeps the engine and drivetrain lubricated. The higher annual mileage therefore places greater emphasis on checking wear items and ensuring that service intervals have been adhered to. Prospective buyers should inspect the tyre tread depth on all four wheels, confirming that each tyre still meets the 1.6 mm legal minimum and that the sidewalls are free from cracking, bulging or dry‑rot, especially given the age of the tyres. A visual check for uneven wear patterns can reveal mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushes; during a test drive the driver should listen for clunking over bumps, feel for any pull to one side, and note any vibration that may indicate tyre or wheel imbalance. The front brake pads, flagged as thin, are likely approaching the end of their service life and should be measured; a pad thickness below 3 mm typically warrants replacement. The rear discs, already pitted, should be measured for remaining material – if the disc depth is less than 2 mm the risk of cracking rises and resurfacing may no longer be viable. Any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes would confirm the need for immediate attention. In addition to the wear items, the buyer should verify the condition of the rear axle and mounting points for signs of corrosion, ensuring that bolts are not seized and that there is no rust penetration into structural members. The 12‑volt battery, now five years old, should be load‑tested to confirm it can hold charge, particularly if the car has spent periods stationary. As the vehicle is approaching the six‑year mark, time‑based fluid changes become important: the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid should be inspected for colour, level and any signs of contamination, with a full service recommended if service stamps are missing or intervals have been exceeded. Finally, a thorough review of the service book for regular oil changes, filter replacements and any recorded suspension or steering work will give confidence that the car has been maintained in line with Ford’s recommendations.