2014 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · FD63 WAE

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT test on 13 January 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, continuing a generally positive pattern of roadworthiness over the past several test cycles. However, the history reveals two failure episodes during 2023 and 2025, both involving split constant velocity (CV) joint boots on the driveshafts, with the 2025 test also catching a deteriorated anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover. These items were rectified to allow subsequent passes, but the recurrence of CV boot failures on a front-wheel-drive Mondeo of this age and mileage suggests the original replacement gaiters may have been of lesser quality, or that the vehicle is subjected to conditions that accelerate rubber degradation such as frequent kerb strikes, pothole impacts, or extended motorway use. The overall trajectory is best described as stable rather than improving, given that the 2025 failure carried two major defects rather than one, indicating that suspension and drivetrain wear is actively progressing. With 101,286 miles recorded over twelve years, the vehicle has covered approximately 8,440 miles annually, which sits broadly in line with the national average for a car of its age and represents steady, consistent use rather than the extremes of low-mileage garage storage or high-mileage motorway commuting. This level of annual mileage is sufficient to keep mechanical components, fluids, and seals in regular working order, reducing the risk of standing-related issues such as seized brake calipers or perished fuel lines, while not being so high as to suggest imminent major drivetrain overhaul. The MOT intervals show tests conducted at roughly annual cadence with no significant gaps, suggesting the keeper has maintained a consistent compliance regime, although the absence of recorded service history in the MOT data means verification of cambelt or timing chain intervals, brake fluid changes, and coolant renewal will need to be confirmed through the service book or independent workshop records. Given the documented CV joint gaiter failures, a prospective buyer should carry out a thorough physical inspection and a careful test drive. On the nearside and offside, examine the front driveshaft boots for any fresh grease deposits around the inner or outer CV joints, as a torn boot will fling lubricant onto the surrounding suspension arm or wheel arch liner. Listen for rhythmic clicking or knocking from the front corners during tight低速 manoeuvres such as full-lock turns, which indicates worn CV joints now exposed to contamination. Inspect the front anti-roll bar drop links and their ball joint dust covers for perished rubber or play by hand, and listen for clonking over speed humps or during direction changes. With 101,000 miles accumulated, the front brake discs and pads are likely approaching their second or third set, so verify disc edge lipping, surface corrosion, and pad material thickness, and check that the caliper slide pins are free to retract without binding. Beyond the specific recorded defects, several age and mileage-related items warrant attention prior to purchase. The original fitment tyres, even if legal, should be checked for sidewall cracking and perishing given the vehicle's twelve-year service life, and the production date code on any replacement tyres should be examined as aged rubber compounds lose grip regardless of tread depth. With a car of this vintage, the 12V battery is likely due for replacement, particularly if the vehicle has ever been left standing for extended periods, and a load test or voltage check should be requested. Brake fluid should be renewed every two years regardless of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature, and the cooling system, including the thermostat, water pump, and radiator, deserves close inspection for coolant leaks or staining. Finally, request evidence of the timing chain replacement interval as appropriate for the engine variant fitted, confirm the most recent service stamp details including oil and filter change, and verify that any warning lights on the instrument cluster extinguish promptly on ignition to rule out stored diagnostic trouble codes relating to emissions, ABS, or electronic stability control systems.