2013 Ford Focus 1.6L Diesel · WR13 YCP

The defining mechanical story of this 2013 Ford Focus is an intermittent but persistent ABS warning lamp fault, which has now appeared twice in the recorded test history and ultimately forced a retest within a single day in October 2025. Beyond that ABS issue, the record shows two distinct tyre failures within the same period, including a dangerous nearside front sidewall bulge that caused the immediate test-day failure. A pattern of rear registration plate delamination is also worth noting as a minor cosmetic advisory, though the substantive concerns centre on the braking electronics and structural integrity of the tyres. The trajectory is mildly worsening rather than stable, as the most recent attempt resulted in a failure with multiple categorised defects, whereas the four tests prior to that passed without significant issue. With 65,399 miles accumulated across roughly thirteen years, the annual rate of around 5,031 miles is notably low for a vehicle of this age, and the seven recorded tests between 2020 and 2025 suggest a consistent pattern of usage without long off-road periods. That said, the mileage has crept up steadily from the 2020 test through to the present, with no sudden jumps or gaps that would imply periods of standing. Low annual mileage generally reduces wear on major drivetrain and suspension components, but it can also bring its own considerations such as brake disc corrosion from infrequent use, under-inflation from tyres sitting for prolonged periods, and potential degradation of rubber components and brake fluid. One of the recorded minor defects was indeed a tyre being obviously under inflated, which is consistent with intermittent or short-journey use rather than chronic mechanical wear. For any prospective buyer, the ABS warning lamp issue demands the most immediate attention, as it has now recurred after first appearing in November 2023. This could stem from a failing wheel speed sensor, a corroded sensor ring, damaged wiring loom near the hub, or a fault within the ABS control module itself, and a diagnostic read of stored fault codes would be advisable before purchase. On a test drive, listen for any continued illumination of the ABS warning during ignition cycles, and feel for the expected pulsing under hard braking on a loose surface, since a non-functioning ABS system will not provide that feedback and may extend stopping distances significantly. The dangerous front tyre bulge flagged in October 2025 would have necessitated immediate replacement, so it is worth confirming whether new tyres have been fitted since and inspecting the remaining tread depth across all four corners, as the 2024 advisory noted the rear pair wearing in the tread centre which can indicate over-inflation. Given the recurring ABS fault and the serious tyre failure, a thorough inspection of the braking system as a whole is warranted. Check for any pulling to one side under braking, any grinding or scraping noises that might suggest binding calipers, and inspect the brake discs for lipping or visible corrosion, particularly given the low annual mileage which can promote surface rust. The rear plate deterioration is purely cosmetic, but it is worth ensuring any replacement plate is correctly adhered and reflective. Beyond the items directly flagged in the MOT record, a general check of the suspension components, including the front wishbones, drop links, and anti-roll bar bushes which are known wear items on this generation of Focus, would be sensible, listening for clonks over uneven surfaces and feeling for any vagueness in the steering. Finally, verify that the ABS warning lamp is currently functioning correctly with a pre-purchase diagnostic scan to confirm no active or stored codes remain.