2004 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · NM04 AFJ

The vehicle remains roadworthy, though the maintenance trend shows a shift toward addressing age-related component degradation. The most recent test in March 2026 at 77,984 miles passed successfully but introduced an advisory for perishing and cracking across all tyres. This follows a period in early 2025 where multiple mechanical defects were identified, indicating that the car is now entering a phase of material failure despite its low usage. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 22-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,500 miles per year. Data shows consistent usage patterns between 2022 and 2026, with the car moving from 70,078 to 77,984 miles. However, the significant gap of over 1,700 miles between January 2023 and December 2023 suggests periods of prolonged storage, which often leads to the dry rot of rubber components and fluid-related issues rather than mechanical wear. A buyer must prioritise a physical inspection of the suspension and chassis integrity. The January 2025 test flagged slight play in the nearside front track rod end ball joint and corrosion on both rear coil springs. While these did not cause a failure then, the presence of corrosion on springs in a low-mileage car suggests environmental exposure damage. The March 2026 advisory regarding tyre perishing confirms that the rubber compounds have reached the end of life due to age regardless of remaining tread depth, necessitating immediate replacement to ensure safety.