2018 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · EF18 FJE

Recurring issues with consumable components, specifically brake pads and tyres, define the mechanical profile of this vehicle. While the most recent test on 08 May 2026 resulted in a pass, it followed a failure for a non-functional front windscreen washer and an advisory regarding thin front brake pads. This follows a pattern of brake pad wear advisories seen in 2025 and 2023, as well as a 2024 failure involving a cut in the nearside rear tyre. The trend shows a vehicle that frequently requires attention to its wear items, though it has managed to clear its major defects to achieve its latest pass. The recorded mileage of 33,458 miles against an eight-year age profile indicates a low annual usage rate of approximately 4,182 miles. This level of mileage is significantly below the UK average for a vehicle of this class. Mechanically, such low usage can mean that components like suspension bushes, exhaust systems, and drivetrain elements have experienced less physical wear than a higher-mileage equivalent. However, the frequency of advisories related to tyre wear and brake pad depletion suggests that the vehicle may be subject to short, infrequent trips, which can affect the thermal cycling of braking components and the consistent conditioning of rubber elements. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the braking system during a test drive. Given the repeated advisories for thinning brake pads across both front and rear axles, it is necessary to check for any uneven braking force or a pulsating sensation through the brake pedal, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. The recent failure of the windscreen washer system should also be physically verified to ensure the pump and nozzles are fully operational, as this was a recorded major defect in the May 2026 inspection. Regarding the tyres, the history of both edge wear and structural damage, such as the sidewall cut recorded in 2024, necessitates a thorough visual inspection of all four tyres. Look for uneven tread wear on the inner or outer edges, which can indicate alignment issues or worn suspension geometry. During the test drive, listen for any rhythmic thumping or vibrations that might suggest internal tyre damage or unevenness in the tread, and monitor the steering for any pulling to one side, which would correlate with the tyre and alignment concerns noted in previous MOT records.