2009 Ford Focus 1.8L Petrol · YL59 FVZ

Persistent structural corrosion and recurring lighting and tyre defects define the mechanical profile of this Ford Focus. The most recent recorded test on 22 February 2022 resulted in a pass, but the history reveals a recurring pattern of issues, specifically regarding front subframe corrosion and exhaust mounting defects that have been noted as advisories across multiple testing cycles since 2020. While the 2022 result cleared the immediate failures related to the rear fog lamp and registration plate lamp, the underlying advisories regarding the subframe and exhaust mounting suggest these components require ongoing monitoring rather than having been fully resolved. The vehicle has covered 99,097 miles over its sixteen-year lifespan, which equates to an average annual accumulation of approximately 6,194 miles. This usage pattern is relatively low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting it has not been subjected to high-intensity motorway driving. Mechanically, this lower mileage often correlates with less wear on the drivetrain and engine components, but the MOT history shows that the vehicle has still experienced significant issues with consumable items like tyres and lighting, as well as structural concerns that are not necessarily mileage-dependent. A primary area of concern for a prospective buyer is the documented corrosion on the front subframe. Although recorded as not seriously weakened in 2022, the fact that this advisory has appeared in 2020 and 2022 indicates a progressive issue. During a test drive, you should pay close attention to the steering response and listen for any knocking, clunking, or irregular vibrations coming from the front end, especially when navigating uneven surfaces or turning the wheel at low speeds, as these can be symptoms of compromised structural integrity or worn suspension bushes associated with subframe movement. Additionally, the history of defective exhaust mountings and tyre structural failures warrants close inspection. The repeated advisories regarding the front exhaust mounting suggest the system may be prone to movement or excessive vibration; listen for loud droning, rattling, or heavy vibrations through the floorpan while accelerating or idling. Given the previous dangerous failures involving tyre cord exposure and structural separation, a physical inspection of the current tyre sidewalls for bulging, cracking, or uneven wear is essential to ensure no similar structural degradation is present on the current set.