2015 Ford Ecosport 1.5L Diesel · PL15 FHO

The most recent MOT test on the 2015 Ford Focus Sport occurred on 2026-03-02, resulting in a clean pass with only advisories present. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that warrant careful consideration. While the last two years have shown a mix of minor and major failures—particularly with windscreen wipers, tyre pressure monitoring, and structural components—there have also been periods of stability, notably in 2023 and 2022, where no defects were recorded. The combination of dangerous failures in 2024 and 2025, alongside persistent advisories on suspension corrosion and sub-frame integrity, suggests a vehicle that has experienced significant wear, particularly in high-stress areas. This trend indicates that while the car may have passed recent tests, underlying mechanical degradation is likely progressing, and the owner should be proactive about addressing these issues before they escalate into more costly repairs. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 72,113 miles over approximately 11 years represents an average annual usage of around 6,556 miles, which is relatively moderate for a car of this age. Lower mileage could imply periods of inactivity or lighter use, potentially leading to accelerated wear from standing corrosion—particularly in the suspension and exhaust systems—where moisture and road salt have had prolonged exposure. Conversely, higher mileage would accelerate the consumption of consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids, but 6,556 miles per year is not extreme enough to justify extreme caution without further investigation. The presence of multiple advisories related to corrosion in coil springs and sub-frame components, however, suggests that the vehicle has been subjected to conditions that have accelerated wear beyond what might be expected from typical usage alone. This highlights the importance of a thorough inspection to assess the extent of structural and mechanical degradation. Given the MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a detailed mechanical inspection focusing on the suspension and sub-frame areas. The advisories and failures related to corroded coil springs and potential detachment of sub-frame pins or bushes indicate that the rear suspension and lower control arms may be compromised. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the rear axle area, especially when transitioning between bumps or sharp turns, as these could signal loose or failing components. Inspect the rear suspension for uneven wear on tyres, which may indicate misalignment or binding calipers, and check for excessive play in the steering wheel when navigating corners. Additionally, visually confirm that the sub-frame bolts remain securely tightened and that no signs of rust or separation are visible around the rear sub-frame mounting points. If the suspension bushes are severely worn or corroded, replacement may be necessary to prevent further structural failure, which could lead to dangerous situations such as a detached sub-frame. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also address the recurring tyre and wiper issues. The advisories of cracked or perishing tyres and the history of underinflation and nail damage suggest that the tyres may require replacement soon, ideally within the next 12 months to ensure safe traction and roadworthiness. Inspect the tyres for signs of uneven wear patterns, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and measure the tread depth to confirm compliance with legal limits. The front windscreen wiper failures are a critical safety concern, as ineffective wipers can impair visibility during adverse weather. Replacement of both front wiper blades is strongly recommended, as the current defects are classified as major failures, which would have failed the MOT if not for the advisories. Lastly, the oil leak noted in 2025 should be investigated further to determine if it is a minor, intermittent issue or a sign of a more serious engine problem, such as a failing valve cover gasket or piston ring. Checking the oil level and condition during the inspection, along with confirming the presence of a service history for fluid changes, will help assess the long-term reliability of the engine.