2003 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · NA03 AEM

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-27 confirms the vehicle failed, marking the third consecutive failure within a year. This pattern of repeated testing—without any recorded defects—indicates a critical oversight in either pre-test repairs or genuine mechanical issues that persist despite intervention. The lack of advisories or specific fault codes suggests either a rushed or incomplete inspection process, or that the vehicle’s underlying problems were not properly addressed between tests. The most recent failure, just six months ago, means no formal assessment has been conducted since, leaving critical components unvalidated for roadworthiness. The mileage progression shows a consistent average of approximately 6,500 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. However, the clustering of tests in early 2024 and early 2025—with just 4,700 miles between failures—implies either a deliberate attempt to pass MOTs at the last moment or a vehicle that has developed persistent issues requiring frequent attention. The gap between the 2025-01-28 failure and the 2025-01-31 pass suggests a rapid response, but without evidence of corrective work, this could indicate a pattern of neglect rather than proactive maintenance. Given the repeated failures without recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the condition of coil springs, bushes, and dampers, as these are common failure points in older Focus models. The braking system warrants scrutiny, especially rear calipers and discs, given the likelihood of binding or uneven wear over 150,000 miles. Structural integrity should also be assessed, focusing on corrosion in wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as rust can compromise safety-critical components. The absence of advisories in past tests does not guarantee these areas are sound, so visual and functional checks are essential.