2017 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · BL66 AAU

The most recent MOT, carried out on 20 April 2026, resulted in a pass but was accompanied by three advisories – a minor oil leak, corrosion of the off‑side front coil spring and a coolant leak. The preceding test two days earlier failed on the same three items and added a near‑side steering‑rack inner joint play and a missing steering‑rack gaiter. Over the past two years the vehicle has repeatedly attracted the same oil, coolant and coil‑spring advisories, with a single failure for steering‑rack condition and wiper inefficiency in 2025. The pattern suggests a maintenance regime that is holding the car just above the legal threshold but has not fully resolved recurring leaks and corrosion, indicating a stable but not improving trend. At 139,146 mi recorded for a 2017 model the annual average mileage works out at roughly 15,500 mi per year, well above the typical UK average of 10‑12,000 mi. This level of utilisation accelerates wear on consumables such as tyres, brake discs, suspension bushings and drivetrain bearings, and it also increases the likelihood of heat‑related degradation of seals and gaskets. The mileage history shows no long periods of low use that might have allowed components to settle, so the wear is likely to be progressive rather than intermittent, and any latent defects may already be approaching the end of their service life. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the sources of the oil and coolant leaks. Look for wet spots or drips under the engine bay, check the oil level and condition, and monitor the temperature gauge for any rise during a short drive. The corroded off‑side front coil spring should be inspected for cracks, loss of spring rate or excessive play in the front suspension; any clunking over bumps or uneven ride height could indicate that the spring is compromised. The steering‑rack inner joint play and missing gaiter noted in the 2026 failure are critical – feel for any looseness or wandering when turning the wheel at low speed and listen for metallic clunking; a worn gaiter can allow dirt to infiltrate the rack, leading to premature failure. Tyre condition also warrants scrutiny: the off‑side front tyre was previously reported with a sidewall tear and a nail in the rear; verify that both tyres are free of punctures, have uniform tread depth, and show no signs of perishing or cracking, especially given the vehicle’s age. Beyond the specific MOT items, a vehicle of this age and mileage should be examined for general time‑related wear. Inspect the 12 V battery terminals for corrosion and have the cranking voltage checked, as prolonged high‑mileage use can strain the charging system. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding – a standing car can develop seized pistons. Verify that all fluid reservoirs (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid) have been refreshed within the manufacturer’s service intervals; fluid degradation is common after several years even if mileage is moderate. Finally, confirm that the service book contains stamps for regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable) and any suspension or steering component replacements, providing confidence that the vehicle has been maintained in line with Ford’s recommendations.