2010 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · WN10 VTU

The most recent DVSA MOT test on this 2010 Ford Focus was conducted on 5 January 2026 and resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which is the most reassuring outcome a prospective buyer could hope to see. It is worth noting, however, that a fail was also logged on the same date, which suggests the vehicle was presented, failed, and then repaired and re-presented the same day to achieve that pass. While entirely legitimate and a common occurrence, this dual entry does indicate the car had at least one issue serious enough to warrant a failure immediately before passing. Looking at the broader MOT history, the vehicle has recorded passes in 2022 and 2025 without any advisories, suggesting that the maintenance trend has remained broadly stable rather than deteriorating, and there is no historical pattern of recurring component failures across the documented test cycle. With a recorded mileage of 120,187 miles over approximately 16 years, this Focus has averaged around 7,500 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a car of this vintage and consistent with regular but not excessive use. The MOT record shows gaps between tests in some years, which is normal and indicates either SORN periods or that the vehicle was exempt from testing due to age prior to the three-year rule. There is no evidence of suspiciously low mileage that would suggest prolonged standing, nor any indication of unusually rapid accumulation that would point to high wear on major drivetrain components. The mileage bracket it occupies typically means consumables such as brake discs, pads, clutches, and suspension components have already been replaced at least once during its life. Given the clean advisory history but the considerable age of this Focus, physical inspection points should focus on age-related deterioration rather than any specific flagged defects. Tyres warrant close scrutiny for sidewall perishing and cracking, which occurs naturally with calendar age regardless of tread depth, and a vehicle of this standing will almost certainly be on its second or third set. The 12V battery is highly likely approaching the end of its service life, and a load test or simple voltage check with the engine off is worthwhile, as Focus models of this era are known for battery-related starting issues. Brake discs should be examined for lipping and surface corrosion, particularly given that this is a front-wheel-drive hatchback where the front discs do the majority of work, and calipers should be checked for binding or seized sliders that commonly develop on older Fords. Fluid servicing and under-bonnet condition deserve particular attention on a 16-year-old car even when MOT records are clean, as MOT testing does not cover engine oil, coolant, or brake fluid condition. Brake fluid is hygroscopic and should ideally have been renewed every two to three years, so verifying its age and condition is worthwhile. Coolant system integrity, including hoses, the thermostat, and water pump, should be inspected for leaks or staining. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clonks over speed bumps, which would suggest worn bushes or drop links common to this platform, check for pulling under braking that could indicate warped discs or a sticking caliper, and confirm there is no rumble or vibration through the steering that might point to worn wheel bearings or track rod ends. The clutch take-up point should feel consistent, and the gearbox should select all gears cleanly without synchro crunch, as these are mechanical items that degrade with mileage but are not examined at MOT.