my ford focus 16v 1.6 failed its MOT because of high emissions, co level 3.8%, HC level 2069 ppm. CO2 level 12.46% volume, 02 level 0.94%volume, Lamda 0.87.Dense blue smoke during acceleration
this car has been standing for just over 1 year.
hardly any fuel in tank(the refuel light is on.)

mileage 83000.

The MOT station is only 400 metres away and I hardly ran the engine to get there, when I idle I cannot see any smoke and when I accelerate I cant see smoke behind me. What do you suggest before I take it back for retest

Ray hollins, October 2008

1st, drain out that `old`fuel-fuel over 3 months old,(unless a fuel stablizer additive was added at time of `fresh`fuel put into tank)replace fuel filter w/new. FILL w/fresh fuel-do not allow fuel level to fall below 1/4 tank at ANYtime.2nd,warm up engine to opp`temp-to when the electric cooling fan starts,then drain the oil/filter replace w/correct weght oil & new filter.Do NOT fill above `full` mark .4th, becouse such a short drive to `mot`ctr,make sure engine is at full opp` temp`-no `cool show-ups`. Try these measures first. Depending on mileage & engine condition,replace spark plugs(and/or check gap,type,etc`) and the lamda(oxigen sensor(s)coolant thermostat(if engine not reaching opp`temp`),these items also may require replacement. Hope this helps;John

John Fuller, October 2008