2008 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · CE08 OWF

This 2008 Ford Mondeo has demonstrated a stable roadworthiness pattern over its most recent MOT cycles, though the immediate test history reveals an unusual sequence of back-to-back failures and passes in October 2023. The most recent test on 6 October 2023—at 160,057 miles—recorded a clean pass with no defects, suggesting the vehicle cleared whatever minor issues prompted the prior failure two days earlier. This pattern repeats annually, with identical pass/fail dates in 2022 and 2021, yet no defects ever logged. While the lack of advisories or repeated faults is reassuring, the abrupt failure on 5 October 2023—just two miles before passing—implies either a last-minute correction or a test-specific anomaly. Without additional context, this cannot be dismissed as negligence, but buyers should treat it as a red flag for potential intermittent issues. The recorded mileage of 160,057 miles over 18 years reflects a consistent, average usage rate of approximately 8,900 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no extended gaps or rapid spikes in mileage between tests, indicating steady ownership without prolonged neglect. The uniformity of the annual MOT dates (all in early October) suggests disciplined servicing, though the absence of service records means no confirmation of scheduled maintenance like suspension alignments, brake fluid changes, or timing belt inspections. The lack of mileage jumps also rules out aggressive driving or repeated short-trip usage, which could accelerate wear in components like fuel injectors or exhaust systems. Given the clean MOT history but the unusual pass/fail oscillation in 2023, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and brake discs, as binding brakes were the most common failure reason in previous Ford Mondeos of this era. The suspension—especially coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers—should be scrutinised for uneven wear or corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and sills, where rust can compromise structural integrity. Exhaust emissions should also be monitored, as catalytic converter failures are frequent in this model and often go undetected until the MOT. Finally, the interior and underbody should be checked for water ingress or dampness, which could indicate failed seals or roof leaks, a common issue in Mondeos with age. The absence of advisories does not guarantee these areas are sound, but it does suggest they have not yet failed catastrophically.