IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2019 Ford Mondeo Mk5 (CD391)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2019 Ford Mondeo Mk5 (CD391). 3 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
3
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

1.5 EcoBoost Cylinder Block Coolant Intrusion & Head Gasket Failure

SeriousEngine

A manufacturing groove between cylinders 2 and 3 in the open-deck engine block allows coolant to seep into combustion chambers, causing severe misfires, white exhaust smoke, and catastrophic hydraulic lock.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,500–£4,500
Warning Signs:

Rough running and misfires on cold start that clear after 30 seconds, Sweet-smelling white smoke billowing from exhaust, Unexplained coolant loss from expansion reservoir with no external puddle

What to Inspect:
  • Check coolant level in expansion bottle and look for oily froth or sweet smell
  • Inspect service history for replacement revised engine block (short block replacement)
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

PowerShift 6-Speed Dual-Clutch (6DCT450) Mechatronic Shudder & Clutch Slip

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The wet-clutch 6-speed PowerShift automatic transmission suffers from clutch pack contamination and mechatronic solenoid sticking if transmission oil and filter changes exceed the mandatory 37,500-mile limit.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£2,200
Warning Signs:

Violent shuddering through vehicle when pulling away from a standstill, Harsh downshifts when slowing to a junction, "Transmission Limited Function" message on dashboard

What to Inspect:
  • Test drive in heavy stop-start traffic and reverse up a gentle slope
  • Check service invoices for 3-year / 37,500-mile PowerShift fluid changes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

2.0 EcoBlue Wet Timing Belt Degradation & Oil Pump Strainer Clogging

SeriousEngine

Later Euro 6d 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engines utilize an internal oil-submerged timing belt ("wet belt") that sheds rubber particulate into the engine oil if incorrect specification 0W-20 oil is used, clogging the oil strainer and causing turbo/engine failure.

Est. Repair Cost: £900–£2,000
Warning Signs:

Low oil pressure warning lamp flashes under acceleration, Engine oil level rises from diesel fuel dilution, Whining noise from lower engine timing cover

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect oil filler cap with torch for rubber debris on visible timing gears
  • Verify strict annual oil service records with Ford WSS-M2C950-A specification oil
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Rear Integral-Link Trailing Arm Bush Tearing & Squeaking

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The complex multi-link rear suspension bushes split and delaminate under heavy motorway loads, causing rear-end wandering, uneven tyre wear, and annoying creaking over road undulations.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£550
Warning Signs:

Creaking or groaning noise from rear axle when going over speed bumps, Rear of car feels loose or steps out over wet manhole covers, Inner edge wear on rear tyres

What to Inspect:
  • Visually inspect rear lower trailing arm voided bushes for rubber tears or metal-on-metal contact
  • Check past MOT advisories for suspension bush play
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2019 Ford Mondeo Mk5 (CD391)

  • Check for coolant loss on 1.5 EcoBoost engines.
  • Verify SYNC 3 responsiveness.
  • Check the rear inflatable seatbelts (if fitted) for fraying.