2010 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · EX10 FDM

The most recent MOT on 15 September 2025 was passed, but it carried three advisories – slight cracking on both rear tyres, and near‑side rear brake pads reported as thin. Over the past six years the record shows a mixed picture: two outright failures for exhaust emissions in 2013 and 2024, recurring oil mist on the rear shock absorbers since 2021, and a steady progression of tyre wear and brake‑pad thinning. The pattern indicates a gradual deterioration rather than a stable or improving maintenance trend, with emissions and rear‑suspension issues being the most persistent concerns. At 147,446 miles the Mondeo averages roughly 9,200 miles per annum, which sits comfortably within the normal usage envelope for a sixteen‑year‑old family saloon. There are no obvious periods of prolonged inactivity that would suggest severe age‑related component perishing, nor is there any evidence of unusually high mileage that would accelerate wear beyond what the recorded annual average implies. Consequently, the wear observed on tyres, brakes and suspension is more likely a function of normal wear rather than excessive mileage spikes. A prospective buyer should give the exhaust system and emissions control components close scrutiny. The repeat failures suggest a possible catalyst degradation, a faulty oxygen sensor or a lean‑rich mixture issue; a diagnostic scan for fault codes, a visual check for cracked manifolds or exhaust leaks, and a functional test of the catalytic converter are advisable. The rear shock absorbers, noted to have light oil mist for several years, should be examined for leaking seals, reduced damping, or noisy operation – any clunk or excessive bounce on uneven road surfaces would point to imminent replacement. The rear tyres, flagged for cracking and perishing, need a thorough sidewall inspection; age‑related dry‑rot can progress rapidly even if tread depth appears acceptable, so replacement is prudent if any surface cracking or hardening is seen. Rear brake pads are already thin, so the discs should be measured for wear and scored surfaces; a pulsating pedal, squeal or reduced braking efficiency would confirm the need for a full rear brake service. Beyond the recorded defects, the buyer should perform age‑appropriate checks: verify that all four tyres have sufficient tread (minimum 1.6 mm) and no sidewall bulges, especially given the front tyres were previously noted as close to the legal limit. Inspect the 12‑volt battery for corrosion and test its cranking voltage, as a sixteen‑year‑old vehicle may have a weakened cell. Examine all fluid reservoirs – coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for colour change, sediment or low levels, and consider a complete fluid change if the service history is incomplete. Finally, look for any signs of chassis corrosion, especially around wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and confirm that the service book shows regular oil changes and any recommended timing‑belt or chain intervals for the 2.0‑litre EcoBoost engine, as neglect in these areas can lead to costly downstream failures.