2017 Ford Focus 1.5L Petrol · R11 TAW

The 1.5-litre petrol Focus typically returns around 45-50 mpg in real-world mixed driving, with the official WLTP figures slightly higher. Road tax for a 2017 petrol Focus of this engine size generally falls into a reasonable band — vehicles registered between 2017 and 2020 paying the standard £190 annual rate, though exact VED depends on the specific list price recorded at first registration. Insurance for a 1.5 petrol Focus of this age is typically in group 12-15, making it moderate rather than cheap to insure.

Routine maintenance on this generation of Focus is generally affordable, with parts widely available and Ford servicing costs typically lower than premium rivals. An annual service including oil and filter is likely to cost in the region of £150-£250 depending on the provider, while brake pad replacements — relevant given the advisories on this car — typically come in at £150-£250 per axle. Allowing for fuel, tax, insurance, servicing and general wear items, expect annual running costs in the region of £1,800-£2,400 for a car driven average mileage.

Inspect the nearside rear tyre carefully for any uneven edge wear, which could point to misalignment or worn suspension components — the 2024 advisory flagged 'worn close to legal limit/worn on edge'. Check that the tread depth remains legal and look for any signs of camber or tracking issues. Also examine the front brake pads and discs, as advisories were raised in both 2022 and 2023; pads that wear repeatedly over short intervals may indicate sticking calipers or aggressive driving patterns rather than a fault.

For the 1.5 EcoBoost engine specifically, listen for any timing chain rattle on initial cold start and check for any evidence of coolant loss or contamination in the oil, as this engine family was subject to manufacturer attention for coolant-related concerns in earlier production years. Inspect the underside of the vehicle for corrosion — Ford model MOT data shows corrosion features among the more common failure reasons for the range, though this particular car shows no such advisories. Finally, check all tyres for matching specifications and adequate tread across the full width.