2019 Ford Focus 1.5L Diesel · YR19 GRW

The most recent DVSA examination on 20 October 2025 resulted in a Pass, but only after the same date produced a Failure for a dangerous defect concerning the rear stop lamps remaining illuminated after the brake pedal was released. The failure was categorised as dangerous, indicating a serious risk of confusing following drivers and potentially causing a rear-end shunt, and it is typically traced to a faulty brake light switch, a relay issue, or a sticking brake pedal mechanism. The remaining items recorded on both the pass and the failure were advisories rather than failures, but their presence is notable. The rear brake discs on both sides were flagged as worn, pitted, or scored, and the front brake discs were noted as worn though not excessively. Both rear tyres were close to the legal tread limit, with the offside rear measured at 2.31mm and the nearside rear at 3.0mm, and the offside rear outer tyre additionally showed perishing and cracking on its sidewall. Considering the trajectory of the 2024 advisory list, which recorded three tyres close to the legal limit, the overall maintenance trend appears to be declining rather than stable, with brake and tyre condition moving from acceptable toward marginal within a single year. The recorded mileage of 70,261 miles over seven years equates to an annual average of approximately 10,037 miles, which sits comfortably within the typical usage band for a privately owned family hatchback of this age. The MOT records are broadly sequential from mid-2023 onwards, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use rather than left standing for extended periods, and there are no obvious large gaps in activity that would raise immediate concern about dormant corrosion or seized components. That said, the annual figure is sufficient to ensure normal wear progression on suspension components, brake friction material, and tyres, and the specific advisories already noted in the recent tests confirm that wear-related items are now approaching or at replacement thresholds. A prospective buyer should treat the rear brake disc condition as the most pressing mechanical concern. Pitting and scoring on both rear discs indicates that the discs have been worn unevenly, often through worn pads being left in service too long, and replacement of both discs and pads together is usually advisable. On a test drive, listen for a grinding or metallic scraping noise under light braking, feel for vibration through the pedal, and watch for the rear wheels running hotter than the fronts after a moderate stop, which would suggest a binding caliper exacerbating disc wear. The front discs, while not flagged as seriously weakened, should be inspected for lipping and minimum thickness, as they have now been monitored across consecutive tests. Regarding the tyres, the offside rear sidewall perishing is a particular concern because age-related cracking compromises structural integrity even when tread depth remains legal; a tyre with visible sidewall deterioration should be replaced regardless of remaining tread. On a test drive, pay attention to any steering pull, which could indicate uneven wear, and inspect all four tyres for cracks, bulges, or age-related hardening. Beyond the recorded advisories, several age- and mileage-appropriate checks are worthwhile. Examine the exhaust system for corrosion at the mounting points and joints, particularly given the vehicle's exposure to winter road conditions over seven years. Inspect the suspension for worn bushes, corroded spring seats, and any knocking noises from the front when traversing speed bumps, as Focus models of this era are known for wear in the anti-roll bar links and rear trailing arm bushes. Check the coolant and brake fluid for service history, as both are time-sensitive and should have been renewed within the vehicle's life irrespective of mileage. Verify the timing belt or chain replacement interval according to Ford's schedule, and confirm that the service book contains stamps at appropriate intervals. Finally, test all brake light functions thoroughly, including the third or high-mounted lamp if fitted, and confirm that the previous stop lamp fault has been properly rectified with a documented repair rather than a temporary bypass, as a recurring electrical fault in this area could indicate a deeper wiring or pedal position sensor issue.