The most recent MOT test for this 2006 Ford Focus occurred on 2010-03-26, where it failed due to an offside rear stop lamp failure and two advisories—one relating to the near-side front side repeater lamp deterioration and the other to a rear trailing arm rubber bush showing signs of wear but not yet causing excessive movement. Although the vehicle passed the same test on the same day, the failure indicates a recurring issue with the rear stop lamp circuit, which could stem from a faulty wiring harness, connector corrosion, or a failing lamp module. The subsequent MOT in 2009-05-19 was clean, suggesting that while the stop lamp issue persisted, it may have been addressed prior to that test, or the vehicle was driven to a point where the lamp was temporarily functional. The pattern of advisories—particularly the rear trailing arm bush deterioration—suggests a maintenance trend that has not worsened dramatically, but the repeated stop lamp failure is a persistent concern that demands attention, as it could escalate into a more serious fault if ignored, potentially leading to a repeat failure or even a loss of brake light functionality.
The recorded mileage of 139,472 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 20 years represents an average annual usage of around 6,974 miles, which is relatively typical for its age and class. This rate of mileage accumulation suggests moderate to heavy use, particularly given the vehicle’s age, which could accelerate wear on critical components such as the suspension, brakes, drivetrain, and exhaust system. While lower mileage might indicate periods of inactivity or light use, the consistent mileage figure here implies sustained operational demands, potentially leading to increased stress on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension elements. However, the absence of any significant mileage gaps or rapid spikes suggests that the vehicle has been maintained under regular driving conditions rather than undergoing prolonged periods of disuse, which could otherwise exacerbate issues like corrosion or fluid degradation.
Given the MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear stop lamp circuit and wiring, focusing on signs of corrosion, loose connections, or damaged insulation. On a test drive, listen for any irregularities in the stop lamp operation—such as intermittent flashing or complete non-functionality—and check for any associated symptoms like a warning light on the dashboard. The rear trailing arm rubber bush advisories indicate wear that may progress to excessive movement or suspension binding if not serviced soon. Inspect the bush visually for cracks or signs of dry rot, and feel for any excessive play when the vehicle is lifted on a jack, as this could lead to uneven tyre wear or handling instability. Additionally, the near-side front side repeater lamp deterioration, though not critical, should be addressed to prevent potential glare hazards or further deterioration of the lamp assembly.
For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection focusing on structural integrity, fluid levels, and consumable wear. Check the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which is common in older vehicles due to ozone exposure and prolonged storage, even if mileage is moderate. Inspect the 12V battery and associated wiring for signs of corrosion or poor connections, as standing vehicles can suffer from battery degradation or parasitic drains. The brakes should be examined for signs of corrosion on the discs, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, which can cause binding calipers or reduced braking efficiency. Verify that all fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and show no signs of contamination or degradation, as these fluids can break down over time, even without significant mileage. Finally, ensure that the service book is up to date, particularly for items like suspension servicing, exhaust emissions checks, and timing belt replacement if applicable, as these are critical for long-term reliability.