2021 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · ST71 FNW

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2025-10-06, but the maintenance trend shows a slight worsening. The rear brake discs were flagged as worn, pitted, or scored — a condition that, while not yet critical, indicates ongoing friction component degradation. This follows a prior test in 2024 where both front tyres were near the legal limit, suggesting a pattern of deferred tyre replacement rather than proactive maintenance. No structural or major mechanical failures were recorded in either test, but the recurring wear on tyres and brakes points to a maintenance approach that prioritizes passing rather than preventing deterioration. Mileage progression aligns reasonably with the vehicle’s age: 31,053 miles over five years equates to about 6,200 miles annually, which is within the typical range for a used car of this vintage. The gap between the 2024-10-01 test (19,972 miles) and the 2025-10-06 test (31,053 miles) represents 11,081 miles in one year — a normal rate of use, not excessive. There are no signs of sudden mileage jumps or long periods of inactivity, which would suggest either storage or heavy usage. The record is clean and consistent, with no missing tests or anomalies that would raise red flags about tampering or neglect. Buyers should inspect the rear brake system closely, particularly the calipers and pads, as binding or uneven wear may have contributed to the disc scoring. The front tyres, while passed, were already at the legal limit — a strong indicator that the previous owner may have ignored tread depth warnings. Check for uneven wear patterns, which can reveal alignment or suspension issues. Also examine the suspension bushes and coil springs for signs of sagging or excessive play, as these components often degrade in tandem with tyre wear. The exhaust system and underbody should be checked for corrosion, especially around the rear wheel arches and sills, as rust can accelerate in damp climates and compromise structural integrity over time. Overall, the car’s condition is manageable for a buyer who is prepared to budget for imminent brake and tyre replacement. The MOT history reveals no catastrophic failures, but it does reflect a pattern of reactive rather than preventive maintenance. A thorough pre-purchase inspection should focus on the brake assembly, suspension geometry, and tyre wear profiles to ensure no hidden mechanical issues have been masked by passing MOTs.