FORD MONDEO1997 · 1.8L PETROL

Most recent MOT (03 Mar 2009 – PASS) The car passed the test but the examiner recorded a long list of deteriorated components. Both front bonded suspension units are flagged as deteriorated, as are the rear anti‑roll‑bar pins on each side. The near‑side front CV‑joint gaiters (outer and inner) are also noted as deteriorated. Brake‑system advisories are present: the service‑brake efficiency was just at the limit, the anti‑slip pad on the brake pedal is wearing, and the seat‑belt pre‑tensioner has already deployed. These items are all classified as “advisories” rather than outright failures, but they indicate that the suspension and braking systems are approaching the end of their service life. Recurring mechanical pattern Across the six‑year MOT window (2006‑2009) the dominant themes are: Suspension wear – Deteriorated front suspension units and anti‑roll‑bar play appear for the first time in 2009, after earlier tests showed only brake‑disc wear. Brake wear – Front brake discs were already noted as worn/pitted in 2006 and 2007; the 2009 record adds a brake‑pedal anti‑slip pad wear and a marginal brake‑efficiency warning. CV‑joint and wheel‑related issues – The 2008 failure listed a fractured off‑side front coil spring and a bent wheel, while the 2009 MOT mentions deteriorated CV‑joint gaiters. The pattern shows a gradual accumulation of wear rather than a sudden new failure, suggesting that the vehicle’s core mechanical components are ageing together. Trend assessment The trend is worsening .