2011 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · MV61 OTH

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows signs of recent instability, moving from a clean record into a period of more frequent mechanical failures. While the October 2025 test at 90,591 miles resulted in a pass, the inspector flagged several immediate concerns including worn tyres on both rear axles, a slight play in the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage, and an oil leak. This follows a failure in October 2024 where the tester identified a structural tyre failure and excessively worn suspension arm bushes. The pattern suggests that while the car is being kept running, maintenance appears reactive rather than preventative, with consumable items like tyres and suspension components frequently reaching the point of failure before being addressed. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 6,000 miles per year. The record shows steady usage, with a notable jump from 59,775 miles in September 2020 to 74,612 miles by December 2021. There are no significant periods of long-term inactivity evident in the data, which supports the likelihood that the mechanical wear observed is a result of regular, albeit perhaps under-maintained, road use. A prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension system and the engine bay. The history shows recurring issues with coil springs, suspension arm bushes, and ball joints, specifically noted in the 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2024 tests. The oil leak noted in the most recent October 2025 test requires physical verification to determine if it is a minor seal weep or a more significant gasket failure. Furthermore, the frequent failures regarding lighting and tyre condition suggest that basic upkeep of consumables has been inconsistent. Finally, pay close attention to the braking system and steering components. The 2021 test highlighted fluctuating service brakes and a deteriorated brake hose, and the 2017 record noted thin brake pads. Although these specific issues may have been resolved, the tendency for various components to fail simultaneously during MOT inspections indicates a need for a comprehensive check of all rubber seals, hoses, and suspension bushings to ensure no further degradation is present.