1999 Ford Focus 1.4L Petrol · S558 JEO
1999 Ford Focus (1.4L, petrol). First registered 11/01/1999. Recorded mileage 101,104 miles. MOT valid until 03/07/2027. Taxed until 01/07/2027.
- Make & Model
- FORD FOCUS
- Year / Origin
- 1999 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 03/07/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/07/2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 101,104 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 1999
- Engine
- 1388cc
S558 JEO Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 24/06/2026
- 101,104 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 4 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring lighting items (9 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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S558 JEO Mileage History
- 19/06/202494,669 mi
- 01/07/202598,537 mi+3,868 mi
- 01/07/202598,537 mi
- 24/06/2026101,104 mi+2,567 mi
- 24/06/2026101,104 mi
Average of roughly 3,197 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
S558 JEO MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 1999 Ford Focus (S558 JEO) between June 2024 and June 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 24 June 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (9 issues), Suspension (8 issues), Steering (3 issues), Tyres (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 29 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Front Anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (5.3.4 (b) (ii))”; “Offside Front Track rod end ball joint has excessive play (2.1.3 (b) (i))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution unless you are a mechanically inclined buyer prepared for significant structural investment. While the price may be low, the persistent history of structural corrosion and recurring critical safety failures suggests this vehicle is reaching the end of its practical life.
The primary focus for this vehicle must be a thorough structural inspection. The MOT history repeatedly notes corrosion on the rear sub-frame and all suspension arms; while currently marked as 'not seriously weakened', rust is progressive on a car of this age. You must check for deep scaling in the sills and wheel arches, as the previous tester noted that the side skirts prevented a full view of the outer sills.
Mechanically, look for play in the steering, as the car has a history of failed track rod ends, anti-roll bar links, and steering rack inner joint issues. Ensure the brake hoses have been replaced, as a leaking hose caused a 'DANGEROUS' failure in 2023. Negotiate significantly based on the imminent need for suspension repairs and the likelihood of further corrosion-related MOT failures.
The 1.8L petrol engine is relatively inexpensive to run, offering roughly 30-35 mpg in mixed driving. As a 1999 vehicle, it likely falls into a low tax band, and insurance should be affordable due to its age and low engine displacement.
However, maintenance costs may be high relative to the car's value. You should expect to replace rubber components and suspension parts frequently. Estimate an annual cost of fuel, tax, insurance, and basic maintenance at approximately £900-£1,200.
Inspect the entire underside for rust, specifically the rear sub-frame. The MOT history shows a recurring issue with corroded rear arms and springs; if the rust is bubbling or flaking, it will fail the next test soon.
Check the front suspension for wear. The vehicle has failed multiple times for track rod ends and anti-roll bar links. Listen for knocking or clumping over bumps, which would indicate worn steering rack or ball joints. Also, inspect the brake lines for cracks or leaks, given the previous major failure point.
This 1999 Ford Focus has covered over 101,000 miles, which is above average for its age. While it recently passed its MOT, the service history reveals a worrying pattern of escalating corrosion, specifically affecting the rear sub-frame, suspension arms, and coil springs. Multiple failures related to braking components, steering joints, and suspension links indicate a vehicle that has been maintained on a 'just passing' basis rather than through preventative care.
The first-generation Ford Focus is known for its excellent handling, but older examples are prone to suspension rust and electronic component wear over time.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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