2004 Ford Mondeo 1.8L Petrol · NL54 ANX

This 2004 Ford Mondeo passed its most recent MOT on 10 February 2026 at 70,425 miles, with no defects or advisories recorded. The test history since 2022 shows a stable pattern of compliance, though the February 2025 test was duplicated—first failing on 13 February at 67,741 miles (unusually with no recorded issues) before passing on 14 February at the same mileage. This anomaly suggests either a clerical error or a minor oversight corrected immediately, but no mechanical concerns were substantively raised. The vehicle’s most recent MOT was conducted just five months ago, which is acceptable but not ideal for a car of this age, where six-month intervals would be preferable for early detection of wear. The recorded mileage of 70,425 miles over 22 years—approximately 3,200 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this vintage, indicating either very light use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The gap between the 2023 and 2022 MOTs (5,179 miles in 11 months) and the subsequent 2025 test (6,299 miles in 20 months) shows inconsistent mileage accumulation, which could imply sporadic driving rather than consistent wear. There are no obvious signs of rapid degradation, but the low mileage also means consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, and timing belt components may have been less frequently replaced than recommended for a car of this age. Given the lack of recorded defects, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should be the suspension geometry and structural integrity. At 22 years old, coil springs, bushes, and track rod ends are likely approaching their service life, particularly if the vehicle has spent time off-road or in harsh conditions. The brakes, while not explicitly failed, should be checked for uneven wear or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods. Corrosion around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe is a critical concern—even with low mileage, rust can compromise structural components. Finally, verify the timing belt and water pump (if applicable) were last serviced, as these are often overlooked in lightly used cars but can lead to catastrophic failure if neglected. The absence of advisories in recent tests is reassuring, but the duplicated 2025 MOT warrants scrutiny of the vehicle’s service history. A buyer should request full service records to confirm whether critical components like the suspension, brakes, and steering have been maintained according to Ford’s service intervals. The current MOT’s five-month age means some wear may have developed since the last test, so a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential.