2010 Ford Focus 1.6L Petrol · YP10 UKR

The most recent MOT, dated 18 November 2025, resulted in a failure. The test recorded a major fault for off‑side headlamp aim, a dangerous defect with the off‑side front tyre showing exposed ply, and a minor but severe deterioration of the off‑side front inner drive‑shaft CV boot. Earlier in the same year the vehicle had passed, but the presence of a major safety defect and a dangerous tyre condition marks a clear deterioration from the largely advisory‑only results seen in 2022‑2024, indicating that the maintenance trend is now worsening. At 155,734 miles the Focus has logged roughly 9,700 miles per year over its 16‑year life. This annual average is typical for a family hatchback and suggests the car has not been subject to extreme high‑speed or heavy‑load use. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would imply long periods of storage, so the wear observed is consistent with steady, moderate usage. Nevertheless, a vehicle with this mileage will have experienced normal wear on suspension bushings, brake discs, tyres and drivetrain components, and time‑related degradation of seals and fluids will be advancing. The buyer should focus first on the items that caused the recent failure. The off‑side headlamp will need realignment or replacement to meet legal illumination standards; a mis‑aimed lamp often produces a noticeable dip in illumination and can cause glare to oncoming traffic. The front‑right tyre with exposed cords must be replaced immediately, and the nail identified in the rear tyre should be removed and the tyre inspected for internal damage – a puncture that has compromised the carcass can lead to sudden deflation. The severely deteriorated CV boot should be replaced and the joint inspected for any loss of grease or splatter on the surrounding chassis, as a failing boot can allow contamination that eventually damages the constant‑velocity joint, producing clicking noises on acceleration or under load. The oil and coolant leaks noted in 2024 should be traced; even a minor leak can lead to low fluid levels, overheating or bearing wear, so a visual inspection of the engine bay for fresh stains, drip trays and the condition of the coolant reservoir cap is advisable. The advisory on the off‑side rear anti‑roll bar bush indicates some play; while not yet excessive, the bush should be checked for looseness and replaced if any clunk is felt when cornering. The front brake disc was flagged as pitted in 2024 – a visual inspection for deep scoring and a test‑drive for brake shudder or pulsation will reveal whether the discs are approaching the end of their service life and need resurfacing or replacement. Beyond the recorded defects, the car’s age warrants a thorough time‑based inspection. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking, dry rot or hardening, especially if the vehicle has spent periods standing still, as age‑related perishing can occur even on low‑mileage tyres. The 12 V battery should be load‑tested; a 16‑year‑old battery is likely nearing the end of its service life and may exhibit sluggish cranking or dimming lights. Check the condition of the coolant (colour, debris) and consider a flush if it has not been changed in the last two years, as coolant degrades and can cause corrosion of the water pump and radiator. Brake fluid should be examined for moisture content; a fluid change every two years is standard practice to prevent internal corrosion of the brake system. Inspect the suspension for worn bushings, cracked coil springs or any uneven tyre wear that could point to alignment issues. Finally, verify that the service book contains regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and that any previous MOT failures have been rectified with appropriate paperwork, giving the buyer confidence that the vehicle’s mechanical health is being actively managed.