2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · SL09 TBO

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a clear degradation of the front suspension components. The most recent test in March 2026 at 99,883 miles flagged both the offside and nearside front inner suspension arm pins and bushes. This is a progression from the March 2025 test where these same components were already noted as having wear on both sides. While the car currently passes, the recurring nature of these faults indicates that the suspension hardware is reaching its functional limit. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 99,883 miles represents a low average of approximately 5,875 miles per year. However, the data reveals significant fluctuations in usage patterns. Between December 2022 and March 2025, the vehicle covered only 4,409 miles in over two years, followed by a surge of 12,554 miles in the subsequent fifteen months leading up to the latest MOT. This inconsistent use often correlates with mechanical issues, such as the corroded nearside front coil spring noted in 2025, suggesting the vehicle may sit for long periods between bursts of activity. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the front suspension geometry and rubber components. The history shows a persistent issue with worn bushes and anti-roll bar joints, which will soon require replacement to prevent handling instability. The corroded nearside front coil spring from 2025 should be visually inspected for further structural thinning, as surface corrosion can lead to sudden fracture. Additionally, the 2021 failure regarding a missing fuel tank exhaust shield highlights a previous oversight in underbody protection; the buyer should verify that this shield is correctly secured and free from significant rust to ensure the fuel system remains protected.