2009 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · WV09 XRW

A recurring theme in the MOT record is the progressive wear of the rear tyres and the condition of the front brake discs, indicating that tyre and brake maintenance will be the primary mechanical focus for a new owner. The latest test on 12 February 2026 recorded both nearside and off‑side rear tyres as being close to the legal tread limit, while earlier advisories in 2023 and 2019 flagged the front brake disc as pitted or scored, though not yet unsafe. Apart from a single advisory about a nail in the off‑side rear tyre in 2022 and a 2019 note that engine covers impeded full inspection, every annual test has been passed without a failure, suggesting overall roadworthiness but highlighting wear in these specific areas. At 133 930 miles recorded over a 17‑year lifespan, the vehicle averages just under 8 000 miles per year, a usage rate that sits comfortably within typical UK patterns for a model of this age. The consistent yearly MOTs show no significant gaps in testing, implying the car has been driven regularly rather than stored for long periods. This moderate mileage translates to expected wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads, discs and suspension components, but does not alone point to premature drivetrain failure. When inspecting the rear tyres, verify tread depth across the width and inspect the sidewalls for cuts, bulges or embedded objects; the advisory that they are near the legal limit means replacement is likely required soon to avoid a future failure. For the front brakes, measure disc thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum specification and look for surface scoring that could cause vibration or pedal pulsation under braking; if the discs are approaching the wear limit, resurfacing may be insufficient and a full replacement with new pads should be considered. During a test drive, listen for any squeal or grinding that would indicate worn pads, and feel for any judder through the steering wheel when applying the brakes, which would corroborate disc deterioration. Given the 2019 note about engine covers limiting inspection, request that the engine bay be fully opened for a visual check of hoses, belts, and any signs of oil or coolant leakage, as these items are not captured by the MOT advisories. While the suspension and steering systems have not been flagged, it is prudent to examine the condition of the front and rear suspension bushes, check for uneven tyre wear that could hint at alignment or bush wear, and assess steering feel for any pull or looseness. A thorough road test that includes steady‑state cruising, gentle braking, and a few bumps will help reveal any latent issues before finalising the purchase.