High mileage Focus MK3 buying advice

[tobee1k]

Hello everyone. Apologies if this is in the wrong place, or has been covered before, I had a hunt but couldn't find anything similar.

I'm looking for a bit of advice before buying a MK3. I'm looking for a 1.6 TDCI Titanium estate and have been offered one for a really good price. It's a 2012, had two owners from new, FSH just had timing belt and clutch done and went through last MOT in April with no advisories (8k miles ago). Only potential issue is that it has done 144k miles. It seems to have been well cared for but should I pass on it with that kind of mileage?

I had a MK1.5 for many years that went well past 200k before I sold it - I realise they are very different beasts but hoping that a well cared for MK3 might be good for a decent high mileage too. Appreciate any thoughts.

[vtecyo]

It'd probably be fine, but if it's a concern to you then there are hundreds if not thousands of them for sale at any one time so you're not exactly restricted in your choice.

[tobee1k]

Thanks, it's a good point, they're not exactly rare! Just want to know really if I should rule out the higher mileage cars or if a well looked after engine on a MK3 is good for plenty use. I'll keep this one on the list.

[thel33ter]

It is probably fine, and assuming it's a good price then why not?

Like anything if it's been looked after it should keep running. As it's been driven further you may be replacing suspension bits, bushes, engine mounts sooner than on a lower mileage example and the seats won't be at their best anymore. Bits of trim might be worn. Depends how much things like that bug you.

A friend has one he bought at 109k miles 2 years ago and it's still going strong.

[twentyvalveturbo34]

As said above about suspension etc, take it out and see what it drives like.
Engine wise I've had 2 fords with the 1.6 tdci and they were/are faultless (kiss of death), a MK2.5 focus went well up to 160k miles when I sold it, and I have a fiesta Mk7 that doesn't get used much these days but is on 176k miles and still drives well.
I think as long as you keep up with the regular servicing it should be fine.

[tobee1k]

Brilliant, thanks guys. I'm going to look at the car and see how it drives - I'm told there are no knocks and rattles and everything's good... but they always say that, right?!