2020 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · YF70 FRO

The most recent MOT on 19 February 2026 recorded a failure, principally for both headlamps being aimed too low, one headlamp being insecure, and the engine malfunction‑indicator lamp (MIL) being inoperative. In addition to these serious failures, the test listed advisories for rear tyre perishing, a rear brake disc that is pitted, and front brake pads that are approaching the wear limit. Compared with the earlier records – a clean pass in December 2023, a pass with a rear‑pad advisory in February 2025 and a pass with several tyre and brake advisories in early 2026 – the trend is clearly moving towards a deterioration in condition rather than an improvement. The vehicle has logged only 20,115 miles over roughly six years, averaging about 3,350 miles per annum. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of inactivity, which can accelerate age‑related degradation even when wear from distance is minimal. The modest mileage reduces the expected wear on engine and drivetrain components, but it also raises the likelihood of tyre rubber perishing, battery sulphation, and brake components developing surface corrosion or uneven wear from sitting. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the rear tyres, which have already been flagged for cracking or perishing. Inspect the sidewalls for dry rot, bulges, or exposed cords, and verify that the tread depth is still above the legal minimum and evenly distributed. The rear brake disc’s pitting and the thin front pads suggest that the braking system is nearing the end of its service life; listen for any shudder or pulsation when applying the brakes and feel for uneven pedal feel, and arrange for a professional resurfacing or replacement of the disc and pads. The headlamp aim failures indicate possible mis‑adjustment or mounting damage – check that the beams are correctly centred and that the lamp housings are securely fastened, as poor illumination can be a safety hazard. Finally, the inoperative MIL means the engine control unit is not signalling faults; a diagnostic scan should be performed to confirm that the warning lamp functions correctly and that no hidden faults are being masked. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of age‑related items is essential. Examine the tyre sidewalls for age cracking even if tread appears adequate, and consider replacing them pre‑emptively if they are more than six years old. Test the 12‑volt battery’s cranking voltage and check for any signs of corrosion on terminals, as long periods of storage can reduce capacity. Inspect suspension bushes, ball joints and mounts for any cracking, looseness or excessive play, especially if the car has been idle for extended stretches. Verify that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been changed according to the manufacturer’s calendar schedule rather than mileage, and look for any leaks or signs of fluid degradation. A full service history and a recent diagnostic scan will give the buyer confidence that the vehicle’s mechanical condition is sound despite the recent MOT failures.