2008 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · RK08 RZN

The 2008 Ford Focus presents a mixed maintenance picture. The most recent MOT, conducted on 28 June 2025 at 125,396 miles, passed, but the tester flagged a corroded rear anti-roll bar and a corroded rear subframe. These are not minor cosmetic issues. The subframe advisory is a recurring theme, appearing in both the 2024 and 2025 tests. This suggests a worsening structural trend, not a one-off problem. The vehicle has been on the road for roughly 18 years, and the corrosion pattern indicates long-term exposure to moisture and road salt without adequate underbody protection or preventative treatment. The mileage accumulation of approximately 6,966 miles per year is typical for a vehicle of this age and does not raise immediate concerns about excessive wear or suspiciously low use. The record shows a steady annual climb from 107,717 miles in June 2022 to 125,396 miles by June 2025, with no large gaps or sudden jumps that would suggest the car sat unused for extended periods or was driven aggressively. The MOT history is reasonably consistent in its annual testing pattern, which is a positive sign of regular use and at least baseline compliance. A buyer should pay close attention to the rear subframe and suspension components during any in-person inspection. The 2024 test noted corroded rear subframe and suspension, and the 2025 test repeated the subframe corrosion advisory. Both rear coil springs were flagged for corrosion in June 2023, and the rear anti-roll bar linkage ball joint showed slight play in 2024. These are not isolated advisories. They point to a vehicle where the rear understructure has been deteriorating over multiple test cycles. The 2023 failure also revealed a split nearside front CV boot, which, if not addressed, can lead to joint failure and costly drivetrain repair. Beyond the structural concerns, the 2023 failure included both front tyres below the 1.6mm legal minimum on the inner edges, indicating possible alignment issues or neglected tyre rotation. The 2024 test flagged a slightly damaged or perishing nearside rear tyre. Combined, these suggest tyre maintenance has been reactive rather than proactive. A thorough inspection of the subframe mounting points, rear suspension bushes, coil springs, and anti-roll bar links is essential before purchase. The corrosion trend is the most significant risk here, as it directly affects the vehicle's long-term structural integrity.