2021 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · SW21 HDC

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2021 Ford Focus was conducted on 5 February 2026 and resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, indicating that the vehicle met all roadworthiness standards at the point of examination. Reviewing the available MOT history, the car has passed every annual test since at least early 2024, with only a single advisory noted during the 2024 examination concerning rear brake pad wear. The overall maintenance trajectory is therefore stable and consistent, as the absence of recurring advisories for suspension components, tyres, corrosion, or exhaust systems across four consecutive tests suggests the vehicle has been reasonably well maintained. The isolated brake advisory in mid-2024 has not reappeared in subsequent tests, which implies the pads were either monitored, replaced, or have not yet worn to a critical threshold, and this should be verified with the vendor through servicing documentation. With 34,464 miles recorded over approximately five years of age, this Focus has covered an average of around 6,893 miles annually, which is broadly typical and consistent with moderate private or mixed-use driving. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record that would suggest extended periods of standing, and the mileage progression between tests appears steady rather than indicative of unusually heavy use. This level of annual mileage is generally favourable, as it indicates that key wear items such as the clutch, drivetrain, suspension, and braking components have been exercised regularly without being subjected to excessive high-mileage degradation. That said, prospective buyers should still satisfy themselves that the recorded mileage is supported by a continuous service history, as a well-driven but lower-mileage car can still develop issues associated with age rather than wear. Given that the MOT history is clean aside from the rear brake pad advisory, and the mileage profile is moderate, the principal inspection focus should shift towards age- and time-related deterioration rather than wear-based concerns. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, which can occur on vehicles that are five years old regardless of tread depth, and the production date stamps on the sidewalls should be checked to ensure they are not excessively aged. Brake discs, particularly those at the rear, may have developed corrosion or surface pitting from typical stop-start urban use combined with standing periods, and the calipers should be inspected for any binding or sticking pistons that can cause uneven pad wear or pulling under braking. The 12V battery, often overlooked in pre-purchase checks, may be approaching the end of its typical service life on a five-year-old vehicle, and a load test or voltage check is advisable before purchase. Finally, attention should be paid to the time-based service items that do not necessarily appear on an MOT test but are essential to ongoing mechanical integrity. Brake fluid is hygroscopic and typically requires replacement every two to three years regardless of mileage, so verifying the date of the last fluid change is worthwhile. Coolant, transmission fluid, and the cabin pollen filter should also be reviewed against the manufacturer's service schedule. On the test drive, listen for any clonks or knocks from the suspension over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn bushes, drop links, or coil springs, and pay attention to steering feel for any vagueness or knocking that might suggest tie rod or rack wear. With the vehicle stationary, a thorough check for fluid leaks beneath the engine and from the rear differential area, along with an inspection of the exhaust for corrosion at the mounting points and joints, will round out a comprehensive evaluation of this otherwise well-maintained Ford Focus.