2004 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · SP51 ACE
2004 Ford Focus (1.6L, petrol). First registered 01/12/2004. Recorded mileage 109,049 miles. MOT valid until 19/01/2027. Taxed until 01/12/2026.
- Make & Model
- FORD FOCUS
- Year / Origin
- 2004 · Dundee
- MOT Status
- Valid until 19/01/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/12/2026)
- Recorded Mileage
- 109,049 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- PETROL
- Year
- 2004
- Engine
- 1596cc
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
SP51 ACE Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 06/01/2026
- 109,049 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 24 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (32 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
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
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SP51 ACE Mileage History
- 13/01/2022100,499 mi
- 05/01/2023101,649 mi+1,150 mi
- 11/01/2024103,367 mi+1,718 mi
- 13/01/2025106,239 mi+2,872 mi
- 06/01/2026109,049 mi+2,810 mi
Average of roughly 2,148 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
SP51 ACE 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 2004 Ford Focus (SP51 ACE) between January 2022 and January 2026.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 92 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (32 issues), Brakes (22 issues), Lighting (9 issues), Tyres (7 issues), Bodywork (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 92 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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution – the car passes its MOT but shows a pattern of corrosion and wear that will need attention. Negotiate on the price to reflect the upcoming repair work and ensure a thorough inspection before purchase.
When negotiating, factor in the cost of addressing the corrosion on both front and rear sub‑frames, as well as the many suspension arm and brake pipe repairs flagged across the last four years. A reduction of £1,500‑£2,000 from the asking price would be reasonable to cover these foreseeable expenses. Request a full service history; evidence of recent suspension or brake work would mitigate some of the identified issues.
Look for any recent component replacements – a new set of brake discs, fresh brake hoses, or replaced shock absorbers would be a strong sign the current owner has kept up with maintenance. If the car has had any rust‑proofing treatment or under‑body coating, that could extend the life of the sub‑frames. Verify that the oil leak noted in 2025 has been repaired, as untreated leaks can lead to engine wear.
Be aware that the Focus of this age can develop timing belt or chain wear, so ask for records of timing belt changes (if applicable) and inspect the engine for any unusual noises. Given the vehicle’s age, consider a warranty or an extended service contract to cover unexpected failures.
The 1.6‑litre petrol engine typically achieves around 45 mpg (imperial), meaning fuel costs will be modest – roughly £1,200‑£1,400 per year based on current fuel prices. Road tax for a 2004 Focus is usually in the £150‑£200 band, and the insurance group sits around 15, giving an annual insurance cost of £600‑£800 depending on driver profile.
Maintenance on an older Focus can be higher due to wear items such as brake pads, discs and suspension components; budgeting £300‑£400 per year for routine service and part replacement is prudent. Overall, an estimated annual running cost sits between £1,250 and £1,500, assuming no major breakdowns.
Pay particular attention to the front and rear sub‑frames, which have been noted as corroded in every MOT since 2022. Even though the corrosion was classified as "not seriously weakened", any progression could affect structural rigidity. Check for rust under the body panels and around the wheel arches, and assess whether any rust‑proofing has been applied.
Inspect the brake system thoroughly – the MOT reports show multiple brake pipes corroded and brake discs worn or pitted. Verify the condition of the brake hoses, replace them if any signs of rust or grease are present, and ensure the discs are within safe thickness limits. Also examine the shock absorbers and suspension bushings, as reduced damping and worn bushings have been repeatedly flagged.
Finally, look at the tyre condition and wheel bearings. The MOT notes indicate tyres close to the legal limit and occasional tyre damage. Confirm that the tyres have sufficient tread depth and that the wheel bearings are free of play. An oil leak was reported in 2025; check the engine for any ongoing leaks that could affect oil levels or cause further engine wear.
This 2004 blue Ford Focus 1.6L has logged 109,049 miles, well below the average mileage for its age. It has consistently passed its MOT, but each test reveals numerous corrosion items on the sub‑frames, suspension arms and brake pipes, as well as worn brake discs and reduced shock absorber performance. The vehicle is mechanically serviceable but will likely require component replacement soon. Its low mileage and recent MOT are positives, yet the corrosion risk keeps the overall value modest.
There is no aggregate MOT data available for the Ford Focus, but the model is generally regarded as reliable when well maintained; age‑related corrosion can become a concern for cars of this vintage.
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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