2002 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Petrol · AF02 AAU

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a worsening trend regarding front suspension integrity. While the most recent test in December 2025 at 106,443 miles passed, it identified a severely deteriorated offside front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover and persistent play in the nearside front ball joint. This represents a progression from the slight play previously noted as an advisory in both December 2024 and December 2023, indicating that the front suspension components have not been replaced despite repeated warnings of wear. The mileage profile is notably low for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,435 miles per year. There is a significant gap in records between January 2023 at 100,134 miles and December 2023 at 103,266 miles, representing only 3,132 miles over eleven months. This low annual usage often leads to the degradation of rubber components and seals due to perish rot, which is consistent with the deteriorating ball joint covers and chafed rear brake hoses flagged in the later inspections. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front suspension geometry. The recurring issues with the lower ball joints suggest the entire front wish arms may soon require replacement to prevent a catastrophic mechanical failure. Additionally, the corrosion on the rear suspension component mounting areas noted in 2024 requires close monitoring, as while not excessive at the time, the age of the vehicle makes structural rust a priority. The chafed rear brake hoses identified in late 2025 should also be checked for bulging or perished rubber to ensure hydraulic pressure remains consistent.