2010 Ford Focus 1.8L Petrol · WM59 ECZ

The defining mechanical story of this 2010 Ford Focus is one of generally solid roadworthiness punctuated by a single significant lighting failure in 2024 and a cluster of front-end wear advisories on the most recent test. Across five recorded examinations, the vehicle has passed on four occasions, with the sole failure in April 2024 resulting from a non-functional nearside dipped headlamp and an inoperative rear fog lamp, both of which are PRS (present and correct at time of test) items that are readily rectifiable. The advisory issued on that same date regarding a cracked offside fog light lens is a minor cosmetic concern but worth addressing to prevent moisture ingress and further lens degradation. The latest test on 30 April 2026 passed with advisories relating to front brake pad wear, a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit, and an inability to inspect rear seatbelts due to folded seats. Overall, the trajectory suggests a car that has remained largely compliant, with the 2024 lighting issues appearing as an isolated electrical concern rather than a systemic pattern. With 121,874 miles accumulated over approximately sixteen years, this Focus has been driven at an average of around 7,600 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment. There are no conspicuous gaps in the MOT record to suggest extended periods off the road, and the consistent year-on-year testing indicates regular use. This mileage profile implies that the major mechanical consumables have all been worked through their expected lifespans at least once, with clutches, timing belt components, suspension bushes, and exhaust systems likely to have received attention during the vehicle's life. The mileage itself does not raise immediate red flags, though it is high enough that age-related rubber and plastic degradation should be expected, particularly in suspension and engine ancillaries. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing items to address based on the recorded history are the front brake pads and the nearside front tyre, both of which were flagged as approaching or at the legal wear limit on the April 2026 test. On inspection, the front brake pads should be measured for remaining friction material, and the nearside front tyre examined for uneven shoulder wear, which could indicate a tracking or suspension geometry issue rather than simple wear. The brake discs should also be checked for lipping, scoring, or excessive run-out, as worn pads accelerate disc wear. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, a thorough check of the rear brake shoes, handbrake mechanism, and flexible brake hoses for cracking or perishing is advisable, as these are common MOT failure points on higher-mileage vehicles of this generation. Beyond the flagged items, a test drive should focus on detecting symptoms typical of high-mileage Focus suspension wear, including knocking or clonking over bumps, wandering steering, or excessive body roll, which could indicate worn front wishbone bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, or top mounts. The steering should be checked for free play and any clunking during full lock, and the rear axle bushes and beam bushes inspected for cracking given the vehicle's age. The 2024 headlamp and fog lamp failures should prompt a check of all exterior lighting, including the main beam, indicators, and reverse lights, to confirm current functionality. Finally, the inability to inspect the rear seatbelts due to folded seats at the last test should be addressed by having the belts checked for correct retraction, webbing condition, and buckle operation before purchase, as seatbelt compliance is a common MOT failure area.