2008 Ford Focus 1.8L Diesel · NH08 EWT

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows a concerning downward trend in mechanical maintenance, culminating in a significant failure in August 2025. While the August 12, 2025, test at 113,136 miles resulted in a pass, the record reveals that the car only cleared a major failure three days prior. The August 9, 2025, failure at 113,123 miles was severe, involving a continuous engine oil leak, a missing offside rear anti-roll bar linkage, and illegal tyre tread depth. The recent pass leaves several advisories regarding perishing tyres and corrosion on the rear coil springs and sub-frame, suggesting that while the immediate safety failures were rectified, the vehicle is entering a phase of increased structural and component degradation. The mileage pattern is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 6,285 miles per year. The data shows steady, incremental usage from 2013, when the car sat at 41,295 miles, up to the current 113,136 miles. There are no significant gaps in testing history, which provides a reliable longitudinal view of the car's condition. However, the recent surge in recorded defects between 2023 and 2025 suggests that the vehicle is now experiencing the typical accelerated wear associated with an 18-year-old chassis, particularly regarding rubber components and structural metalwork. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the underside to assess the extent of the reported corrosion. The August 2025 records specifically flagged the rear sub-frame and both rear coil springs for corrosion. Although the sub-frame was noted as not seriously weakened, the progression of rust on an older Ford Focus can quickly compromise structural integrity. The recent engine oil leak noted in the August 9 failure also necessitates a close examination of the engine bay and sump to ensure the leak was fully resolved and is not a symptom of a larger gasket or seal failure. Suspension and braking components require careful scrutiny during a physical inspection. The history shows recurring issues with suspension bushes, dating back to 2015 and 2016, and more recent concerns with anti-roll bar linkages. The tester also noted pitted and scored brake discs in July 2024. Given the advisories regarding perishing tyres and the previous failures for low tread depth, the condition of all four tyres and the quality of the rubber seals should be verified to ensure the vehicle is not subject to further immediate maintenance costs.