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Ford FOCUS 2008–2012
Low Risk

Ford FOCUS

2008–2012

The Ford FOCUS (2008-2012) has a high MOT failure rate, particularly for corrosion-related issues.

The Ford FOCUS models from 2008 to 2012 have been identified as particularly problematic in terms of corrosion, contributing to an overall MOT failure rate of 25.1%. This statistic is based on 14,238 real MOT tests conducted, highlighting a significant concern for potential buyers regarding the vehicle's longevity and reliability.

Corrosion-related failures are often linked to the vehicle's structural integrity, which can lead to costly repairs and safety issues. The top defect categories for these models include tyres, suspension, brakes, and lights, with failure rates indicating that corrosion may be a hidden factor affecting these components. Specifically, the failure rates for tyres and suspension are notably high at 115.02% and 90.17%, respectively, suggesting that underlying corrosion could be exacerbating these issues.

Mileage also plays a crucial role in the failure rates observed. For vehicles with over 120,000 miles, the failure rate jumps to 32.7%, compared to just 13% for those under 40,000 miles. This trend indicates that as the vehicle ages, the likelihood of encountering corrosion-related problems increases significantly.

Given these statistics, prospective buyers should approach the Ford FOCUS (2008-2012) with caution, particularly if considering higher mileage examples. The risk of corrosion-related failures could lead to unexpected expenses and safety concerns, making this model less desirable in the used car market.

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Ford FOCUS also has known issues with:

Chronic Electrical Problems Known Engine Defects Expensive Suspension Problems

Common Problems

Problem Severity Typical Cost
Tyres issues High £50-£300
Suspension issues High £120-£800
Tyres issues High £50-£300

Data Source

DVSA MOT bulk data — 14238 tests analyzed

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Frequently Asked Questions

The 2008-2012 Ford Focus is prone to corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and undercarriage. This can lead to significant structural problems and may result in an MOT failure if not addressed.
Repair costs for corrosion can vary widely, but you might expect to pay between £300 to £1,000 depending on the extent of the damage. It's crucial to address these issues early to avoid more expensive repairs later.
Yes, aside from corrosion, the Ford Focus from this period often experiences tyre and suspension issues. These problems can lead to uneven tyre wear and compromised handling, which may require additional repairs.
While the Ford Focus is generally a reliable car, the corrosion issues can be a red flag. If considering a purchase, ensure a thorough inspection is conducted to assess any potential corrosion and factor in repair costs.
Before purchasing, check for signs of corrosion, especially in the wheel arches and undercarriage. Additionally, inspect the tyres and suspension components for wear, and review the vehicle's MOT history for any past failures related to these issues.

Quick Stats

Risk Level
Low
Year Range
2008–2012
Typical Repair Cost
£220 – £1,400
Affected Areas
Tyres Suspension Tyres Brakes Lights

Ford FOCUS Issues

Chronic Electrical Problems Low Known Engine Defects Low Expensive Suspension Problems Low

Also in Worst for Corrosion

Nissan QASHQAI (2008–2010) Medium Ford KA (2010–2010) Medium Fiat 500 (2010–2011) Medium Mazda 3 (2008–2014) Low Toyota YARIS (2008–2008) Low Ford C-MAX (2011–2011) Low

Ford Guides

Is This Ford Focus Overpriced? 5-Minute Check Used Ford Focus with 75k Miles — Worth the Risk? How Much to Offer on a Used Ford Focus — Exact Script Used Ford Focus with 100k Miles — Worth the Risk?
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