2004 Ford Mondeo 2.5L Petrol · EK04 AEE

The most recent DVSA examination on 29 April 2022 resulted in a Pass, though the inspector recorded several advisories that warrant close attention from any prospective purchaser. The accumulation of advisory items on a single test, combined with a historical record that was otherwise largely clean between 2014 and 2019, suggests the maintenance trend is gradually worsening rather than stable, which is entirely consistent with a vehicle of this age entering a phase where general degradation becomes more apparent. The recurring advisory regarding nearside rear tyre wear on both edges, recorded in 2019 and again in 2022, indicates a persistent geometry or suspension issue on the rear axle that has not been rectified between tests and could point to worn rear suspension bushes, weakened coil springs, or merely prolonged neglect of wheel alignment. The headlamp lens clouding advisory and the general underbody corrosion note further reinforce the impression that cosmetic and structural decline are advancing, even though none of these items constituted a failure at the time of test. With 80,103 miles recorded over approximately 22 years, the vehicle has averaged just 3,641 miles annually, which is notably low and points to extended periods of standing or genuinely light usage rather than consistent daily driving. The MOT history supports this interpretation, as there are visible gaps between tests that suggest the car may have been off the road for considerable intervals, particularly between the 2017 and 2018 tests and between 2019 and 2022. Such a usage profile carries its own mechanical implications distinct from high-mileage wear: standing accelerates oxidisation of brake discs, leading to corrosion ridges and potentially binding calipers, while drivetrain seals, hoses, and flexible components can perish or harden through lack of use. Low annual mileage also means that time-based deterioration, rather than distance-based wear, is likely to be the dominant factor affecting this vehicle's condition. Given the underbody corrosion advisory already recorded, a prospective buyer should arrange for the vehicle to be examined on a ramp to assess the extent of any structural oxidisation, paying particular attention to suspension mounting points, subframe integrity, floor pans, and the condition of the brake and fuel lines, especially given the 2015 advisory noting slight brake pipe corrosion. On a test drive, listen carefully for suspension clonks or knocking over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn bushes, drop links, or top mounts, and feel for any pulling to one side under braking that might suggest a binding caliper or warped brake disc from standing corrosion. The repeated rear tyre edge wear warrants a four-wheel alignment check and a careful inspection of rear suspension components including the trailing arm bushes and spring seats, as uneven wear of this nature on a low-mileage car typically indicates a mechanical fault rather than normal tyre ageing. Beyond the items specifically recorded, the age and standing-prone usage of this Mondeo demands attention to several time-sensitive service items that may not be reflected in the MOT record. Inspect all tyres closely for sidewall cracking and perishing, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth, and check the spare if present. Verify the age of the 12 volt battery, as units older than five years are prone to sudden failure, and confirm the date codes on components such as the timing belt and water pump if the engine is of the belt-driven variety, as these have fixed replacement intervals irrespective of mileage covered. Examine all fluid levels and colours, particularly brake fluid which absorbs moisture over time and should ideally have been replaced within the last two to three years, and coolant which similarly degrades and can promote internal corrosion in a seldom-used engine. Finally, ensure that the service book contains evidence of regular oil and filter changes at appropriate intervals, as infrequent oil changes on a low-mileage vehicle can be just as detrimental as neglected servicing on a high-mileage one.