2011 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · SH60 AEM

The vehicle's roadworthiness status is currently critical following a significant failure in the most recent MOT test on 28 January 2026 at 91,771 miles. The maintenance trend has shifted from stable to rapidly worsening. While the car maintained clean passes between 2020 and 2024, the 2025 test at 85,757 miles introduced several advisories regarding corrosion and worn bushes, which have now escalated into multiple major failures. The recent failure list indicates a widespread breakdown in component integrity, specifically regarding the suspension and braking systems. The mileage pattern shows a consistent, low-intensity usage of approximately 6,000 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. The data shows a steady progression from 30,449 miles in 2014 to the current 91,771 miles. However, the mechanical condition has deteriorated disproportionately to this relatively low mileage. The jump in defects between the 2024 pass at 80,676 miles and the 2026 failure suggests that the vehicle has reached a threshold where age-related degradation is outpacing routine maintenance. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the vehicle's structural integrity and underbody. The MOT history reveals a persistent and worsening pattern of corrosion affecting the sub-frames, Macpherson strut mountings, and seat belt anchorages. The tester specifically flagged corrosion within 30cm of a mounting and on the integral body structure. While the records note these are not yet seriously weakening the chassis, the presence of corrosion on the front and rear sub-frames and the sill/wheel arches represents a significant long-term risk of structural failure. Mechanical attention is also required for the suspension and braking components. The recent failure at 91,771 miles highlights excessively worn suspension arm pins and bushes, as well as corroded brake hose ferrules on both the nearside and offside rear. The recurring issues with corroded coil springs and exhaust leaks indicate that the vehicle's underside requires extensive remedial work. Any purchase should be contingent on a professional inspection of the chassis for deep-seated rust and a verification that the suspension and braking systems have been fully overhauled rather than just patched.