2016 Ford Focus 2.0L Diesel · RT12 LOR

The most recent MOT on 9 July 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the past five years the record shows a mixed picture: a serious failure in March 2022 for the tyre‑pressure monitoring system and headlamp faults, a clean pass in 2023 and 2024, a dual advisory and dangerous tyre failure in March 2025, and a clean pass in 2026. The pattern suggests that the owner has addressed the major 2022 faults, but tyre condition has been a recurring issue, only recently resolved to the point of passing the test. Overall the maintenance trend appears to be stabilising after a period of corrective work. At ten years old the Focus has only 52,307 mi on the odometer, an average of just over 5,000 mi per year. Such low annual mileage is atypical for a family hatchback and often points to long periods of inactivity or very light use. While low mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine and drivetrain components, it does not prevent age‑related degradation of rubber, metal and electronic parts. Prolonged storage can accelerate tyre perishing, battery sulphation, brake‑disc corrosion and corrosion of suspension joints, so the buyer should treat the vehicle as a ten‑year‑old car rather than a low‑mileage one. The most pressing items to verify are the tyres and the tyre‑pressure monitoring system. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking, tread wear and any signs of ply exposure, especially on the front wheels which previously failed a dangerous defect. Check that the TPMS sensors are functional and that the system illuminates correctly on the dashboard. During a test drive listen for thumping or vibration that could indicate a hidden tyre defect, and feel for any pull or wobble that might reveal uneven wear. Confirm that both headlamps fire on main and dipped beam, that the beam aim is correct and that the lenses are clear; faulty headlamp aim can affect night‑time visibility and may re‑appear if the alignment is disturbed. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of age‑sensitive components is essential. Examine the battery terminals for corrosion and have the cranking voltage checked; a ten‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Look at the suspension bushings, ball joints and shock absorbers for cracks, looseness or excessive play, and verify that the steering feels tight without judder. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, glazing or scoring and ensure the pads are not excessively worn. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil, coolant and brake‑fluid changes, and that any timing‑chain or belt service intervals recommended by Ford have been observed. Addressing these points will give the buyer confidence that the Focus remains mechanically sound despite its low mileage and the historical tyre issues.