2014 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · AX14 AEG

A pattern of progressive wear and corrosion runs through the MOT record, with the steering rack gaiter repeatedly flagged and ultimately failing in 2022, while the rear suspension arm pin, rear coil spring and rear body‑work plates have been noted as corroded or worn on several occasions. The most recent test in January 2025 passed, but it still carried advisories for the front registration plate and tyre tread approaching the legal limit, indicating that the vehicle’s condition is holding together only because the defects remain at advisory level rather than having escalated to failures. At 168,504 mi the Mondeo averages roughly 14,000 mi per year, a mileage level that places considerable demand on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components. The MOT history shows annual testing with no long gaps, suggesting the vehicle has been driven consistently rather than sitting idle for extended periods. That steady utilisation, combined with the high annual mileage, means wear items will be approaching the end of their service lives and should be inspected for imminent replacement. When you inspect the car, pay particular attention to the steering system: check for any play in the wheel, binding or uneven feel when turning, and listen for clunking that could indicate a deteriorated rack gaiter or worn rack bearings. Examine the rear suspension arm pins and bushings for excess movement or looseness, and feel the rear coil spring for signs of rust‑induced weakness. Any audible creaks over bumps, especially on the nearside rear, may point to the corroded components flagged in the MOT record. Tyre condition is another immediate concern; all four tyres were reported as close to the legal tread limit in 2021, so verify tread depth and look for uneven wear that could signal mis‑alignment or suspension wear. The front brake disc and pads were already noted as thin and pitted in 2020, so test the brakes for pedal pulsation, reduced bite or squealing, and inspect the discs for scoring. Finally, the front registration plate is deteriorated and the rear plates are corroded – replace these to avoid future MOT failures and to ensure clear identification.