2012 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · AF12 VRX

The most recent MOT, carried out on 12 March 2026, was a pass but it was accompanied by a series of advisories covering a deteriorating rear registration plate, a minor oil leak, a damaged radiator support, a rear brake disc that is approaching the legal limit and uneven wear on the off‑side rear tyre. The same date also recorded a failure for a 38 % front‑brake imbalance, meaning the vehicle left the test with a serious brake fault that was later rectified. Over the last three years the car has alternated between passes and failures, with recurring major items such as split CV‑joint boots, faulty exhaust mounts, worn suspension bushings and a non‑functional headlamp levelling device. This pattern indicates a maintenance trajectory that is currently unstable and trending towards increasing remedial work rather than improving. At 242,779 mi the Mondeo has accumulated roughly 17,300 mi per annum, well above the average for a fourteen‑year‑old family saloon. Such high mileage accelerates wear on engine oil and coolant circuits, the transmission’s constant‑velocity joints, the suspension geometry and the braking system. It also suggests the vehicle has been used for long journeys or frequent commuting, which can exacerbate heat‑related degradation of rubber components and promote corrosion on under‑body parts. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would point to long periods of inactivity, so the wear is likely to be continuous rather than intermittent. When you inspect the car, pay particular attention to the front and rear CV‑joint boots; a split boot will allow dirt and water to contaminate the joint, leading to a whining noise that rises with engine speed and eventually joint failure. Check the condition of the lower suspension arm bushes for any play or clunking when braking or driving over bumps, as the MOT notes indicate wear that is not yet excessive but could soon become a safety issue. The damaged radiator support and bent lower mount should be examined for cracks or distortion that could cause coolant leaks or overheating under load. The exhaust system has been flagged repeatedly for leaks and insecure mounting, so listen for a hissing or ticking sound, especially when the engine is cold, and verify that no exhaust fumes are entering the cabin. The front‑brake imbalance recorded in 2026 suggests the pads, discs or calipers may be unevenly worn; a test drive should reveal any pulsation or pulling when applying the brakes, and a visual inspection of the discs for scoring or rust is advisable. The rear brake disc is already close to the legal thickness, so budgeting for a rear disc replacement in the near future is prudent. Although the oil leak is described as minor, monitor the oil level and inspect the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing for seepage, as a gradual increase could become a major fault. Given the vehicle’s age, also verify the condition of the tyres – look for sidewall cracking, dry rot and tread depth well below 3 mm, especially on the off‑side front tyre that was noted as worn. Examine the 12 V battery for corrosion on the terminals and test its cranking voltage, as a battery older than six years may struggle in cold weather. Check that all fluid reservoirs (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid) are topped up and that the fluids appear clean; time‑based replacement is recommended even if the service book is not up‑to‑date. Finally, inspect the under‑carriage for rust, particularly around the wheel arches and rear sub‑frame, and ensure the headlamp levelling switch operates correctly to avoid reduced visibility at night. Addressing these items before purchase will give a clearer picture of the remaining useful life and the likely cost of bringing the Mondeo back to a fully roadworthy state.