2003 Ford Focus C-MAX 1.8L Petrol · ST53 AWR
2003 Ford Focus C-MAX (1.8L, petrol). First registered 01 Sept 2003. Recorded mileage 107,650 miles. MOT expired on 01 Nov 2022. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- FORD FOCUS C-MAX
- Year / Origin
- 2003 · Dundee
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 01 Nov 2022
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 107,650 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.8L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
ST53 AWR Key Findings
- 2 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 01/11/2021
- 107,650 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
ST53 AWR MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
2 MOT tests are recorded for this 2003 Ford Focus C-Max (ST53 AWR) between November 2021 and November 2021.
The record contains 1 pass and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 01 November 2021 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (2 issues), Windscreen (1 issue), Lighting (1 issue), Suspension (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 4 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 Rear Coil spring fractured or broken (5.3.1 (b) (i))”; “Offside Headlamp aim projected beam image is obviously incorrect (4.1.2 (c))”; “Windscreen washer not working (3.5 (a))”.
ST53 AWR Mileage History
- 01/11/2021107,650 mi
- 01/11/2021107,650 mi
Average of roughly 0 miles per year across 2 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution and a thorough mech
When inspecting this specific C-Max, pay close attention to the suspension system. The 2021 MOT failure for a fractured nearside rear coil spring is a significant indicator of wear that could recur in other suspension components. You should also check the condition of all tyres, as the previous record noted an offside front tyre worn close to the legal limit.
Ask the seller for evidence of recent service history and specifically inquire about the windscreen washer system and headlamp alignment, both of which were flagged as failures in the 2021 test. Because this is a 2003 model, check for any signs of corrosion around the chassis and suspension mounting points, which are common areas of concern for vehicles of this vintage.
As a 1.8L petrol model, running costs will be moderate compared to smaller-capacity engines. Fuel economy will depend heavily on driving style and load, but you should expect typical mid-range consumption for a compact MPV of this era.
Insurance groups for 2003 Focus C-Max models vary, so obtain a quote based on the specific registration. Maintenance costs for this Ford model are generally predictable, though older vehicles often require more frequent attention to consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension components. Estimated annual running costs are likely to be higher than a modern equivalent due to potential repair needs and older engine technology.
Start by inspecting the suspension, specifically looking for any signs of cracked or broken coil springs, following the failure noted in the 2021 MOT. Check the tyres thoroughly for uneven wear, which could indicate alignment issues or worn suspension components.
Test all lighting, including the headlamp aim, to ensure it meets legal standards and doesn't suffer from the incorrect beam projection seen in the previous MOT. Additionally, verify that the windscreen washer system is fully functional and that all seatbelts are accessible for inspection, as the presence of child seats previously hindered the MOT process.
This 2003 Ford Focus C-Max, finished in silver with a 1.8L petrol engine, shows a history of specific mechanical and maintenance issues. The most recent MOT recorded at 107,650 miles in late 2021 included failures regarding suspension components, lighting, and tyre wear. Given the vehicle's age and the recorded failures, buyers should verify if these issues were rectified and if more recent testing has occurred.
Aggregate data for this model shows an average MOT pass rate of 69.2%, with headlamps, exhausts, and tyres being the most frequent reasons for failure.
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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