2004 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · CF53 NHT

The most recent DVSA MOT test dated 22 June 2022 resulted in a failure, with major defects recorded against the exhaust system and the nearside suspension components. An exhaust gas leak from the flexi joint and an insecure exhaust system are both emissions and safety concerns, as exhaust fumes can enter the cabin or pose a fire risk, and any movement in the system suggests worn mounting rubbers or deteriorated pipework. The nearside rear trailing arm bush and nearside front rear daz bush being excessively worn indicates significant wear in the rear suspension linkages, which would manifest as vague handling, clonks over uneven surfaces, and uneven tyre wear, particularly on the inner edges. The advisory noting wear on the offside front rear bush suggests this deterioration is progressive and likely to require further attention on the opposite side. Looking at the broader history, the maintenance trend is clearly worsening rather than stable or improving. Across the recorded tests, there have been multiple failures relating to suspension components, brake pipes, track rod ends, and exhaust integrity, indicating systemic wear throughout the vehicle's underpinnings. Advisories have been repeated over consecutive years, particularly the persistent oil leak, which suggests an engine or gearbox seal issue that, whilst not yet classed as excessive, is likely to deteriorate further. Front brake disc pitting and general underbody corrosion advisories also point to a vehicle where consumable and structural components are reaching the end of their service life. Regarding mileage, this Mondeo has covered 159,269 miles over approximately 22 years, equating to a typical annual average of around 7,240 miles. This level of usage is broadly expected for a vehicle of this age, and there are no obvious gaps suggesting prolonged standing, although the MOT history itself is irregular with gaps of a year or more between tests. A higher mileage figure of this nature means significant wear on the drivetrain, clutch, and engine internals, and any prospective buyer should expect the timing belt, water pump, and associated ancillary drive components to have been replaced at some point, with documentary evidence being essential. For a buyer inspecting this vehicle today, a thorough physical examination is warranted given the age and recorded defects. The exhaust system should be inspected at both ends for corrosion, particularly around the flexi joint and mounting rubbers, with the engine running to listen for blowing or ticking noises from the rear silencer area. The suspension should be checked by pushing down firmly on each corner to detect excessive bouncing, and a test drive over uneven surfaces should be used to listen for clonking from the rear trailing arms and front control arm bushes. Given the advisories on front brake discs, the brakes should be tested for shudder under firm pedal pressure, and the fluid should be checked for moisture content as it will be well overdue for replacement. The persistent oil leak requires inspection from below for fresh residue around the sump, cam covers, and gearbox, while brake pipes along the underbody should be examined for corrosion. Tyres warrant close attention for age-related sidewall perishing and cracking regardless of tread depth, the 12 volt battery should be load tested as older units often fail without warning, and all coolant, brake, and power steering fluids should be assessed for colour and clarity. Finally, given the advisory for slight play in the nearside front suspension arm ball joint, a thorough check of all steering and suspension joints is essential, ideally with the vehicle on a ramp to inspect for perished bushes and worn linkages.