2012 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · NG12 LBJ

Corrosion on the offside front coil spring is a recurring mechanical concern that has appeared in every MOT test since at least January 2025. This persistent advisory, alongside a recent failure in January 2026 regarding ineffective windscreen wipers on both sides, indicates a pattern of wear on consumable components and external fittings. While the vehicle achieved a pass on 15 January 2026, the presence of the same spring corrosion advisory from the previous year suggests that the structural integrity of that specific suspension component has been noted for multiple testing cycles without recorded rectification. The vehicle has covered 96,416 miles over its 14-year lifespan, which equates to an average annual usage of approximately 6,887 miles. This represents a relatively low annual mileage for a vehicle of this age, which can often mean components are subjected to more frequent short trips rather than sustained motorway driving. Mechanically, this usage profile can sometimes lead to specific issues with components like wipers or tyres, as seen in the January 2026 failure for wiper effectiveness and the January 2025 failure for tyre tread depth, where parts may age or perish due to environmental exposure rather than high-mileage wear. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the suspension system during a test drive, specifically focusing on the offside front area where the coil spring corrosion was flagged. Listen for any metallic knocking, clunking, or creaking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as these can be symptoms of a compromised spring or failing suspension bushes. The repeated mention of the offside front coil spring warrants a visual inspection to determine if the corrosion is superficial or if it has progressed to significant structural degradation that could lead to a sudden component failure. Additional attention should be directed toward the visibility and tyre condition. Although the wipers were noted as failing to clear the windscreen effectively in early 2026, ensure that the replacement blades provide a clear, streak-free view in both wet and dry conditions. Given the previous advisories regarding tyre wear and perishing, check the sidewalls of all tyres for any signs of cracking or bulging and ensure the tread depth is well above the legal limit across the entire width of the tyre. Finally, note that the presence of child seats has previously obstructed full inspections of the rear seat belts, so a physical check of the rear belt tension and locking mechanisms is advisable.