2013 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · PH05 ART

The most recent MOT test on 16 July 2026 resulted in a pass, although two advisories were recorded concerning the rear suspension. The first advisory noted that the rear suspension arm pin or bush was worn but not resulting in excessive movement on both rear suspension arm bushes, while the second advised that the rear suspension anti-roll bar brackets and the surrounding area showed corrosion, though not considered excessive at this stage. Reviewing the four-year MOT history, the vehicle has consistently passed its annual tests, but the advisory count has steadily increased from one in 2024, to five in 2025, and two in 2026, indicating a maintenance trend that is broadly stable but with accumulating wear items. The 2023 test also included a failure for major defects involving the horn, headlamp aim, and engine management indicator lamp, all of which appear to have been rectified as the subsequent tests passed without reoccurrence of those items. Overall, the pattern points to a vehicle that remains roadworthy but is showing progressive age-related deterioration, particularly in the braking and suspension systems. With a recorded mileage of 122,130 miles over approximately 13 years, this Ford Focus averages around 9,395 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and class. There are no significant gaps in the MOT history suggesting long periods of standing, and the consistent annual testing indicates regular use, which is generally beneficial for preventing issues such as brake caliper seizure, fluid degradation, and corrosion from prolonged inactivity. The mileage accumulation appears steady rather than excessive, meaning mechanical wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and transmission should be proportionate to the odometer reading rather than disproportionately high. At this mileage and age, however, attention should still be given to age-sensitive components such as the timing belt or chain service interval, coolant and brake fluid renewal schedules, and general wear on items that degrade with both mileage and calendar years. The recurring advisories on the front and rear brake pads and the front brake discs across the 2023 and 2025 tests suggest that the braking system is reaching the typical end-of-life cycle for pad and disc material, and a prospective buyer should anticipate renewed expenditure on these consumables in the near future. On a test drive, listen for any brake shudder or vibration through the steering wheel under firm braking, which would indicate disc warping, and pay attention to any grinding noises suggesting pads worn down to the metal. The 2025 advisories also noted worn edges on both front tyres, which can point to suspension geometry issues or worn wishbone bushes or drop links, so careful inspection of the front suspension for clonking noises over speed humps and uneven inner or outer tyre wear is advisable. The nearside rear direction indicator showing slight discolouration is a minor item typically resolved by replacing the bulb or lens unit, but verify all lighting functions during inspection. Regarding the rear suspension advisories recorded at the most recent test, worn rear suspension arm bushes and corroded anti-roll bar brackets represent a developing concern that warrants close physical inspection. On a road test, listen for any knocking or rattling from the rear axle over uneven surfaces, and check whether the vehicle exhibits any instability or vagueness during cornering, which can be symptomatic of compromised bush integrity. Corrosion at the rear suspension mounting points should be examined closely to ensure it remains surface-level and has not progressed to affecting structural integrity, particularly given the vehicle's age and exposure to winter road salts. Additionally, given the calendar age of the vehicle, a prospective buyer should verify the condition of all tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing even if tread depth appears adequate, check the 12V battery for holding charge as batteries typically require replacement every four to six years, and confirm that essential time-based services such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid changes have been carried out at the manufacturer's prescribed intervals. Inspecting the exhaust system for the recurring loose rear heat shield issue noted in multiple tests is also worthwhile to ensure it has been properly secured.