2014 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · FD63 WDG

The most recent MOT test on the 2014 Ford Mondeo, conducted on 2026-02-16, resulted in a pass, though it included a single advisory regarding front inner brake discs that are worn, pitted, or scored but not critically weakened. This follows a history of consistent MOT passes over the preceding five years, with the only notable exceptions being minor issues from 2023 and 2024—specifically, nearside and offside front tyre wear approaching legal limits and a rear trailing arm bush advisory. The absence of repeated failures or major defects suggests a generally stable maintenance record, though the recurring tyre and suspension advisories indicate ongoing wear that warrants closer attention to prevent further degradation or safety compromises. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 129,316 miles over approximately 12 years reflects a usage rate of around 10,776 miles annually, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. While lower mileage might suggest periods of reduced use or stationary conditions, the consistent accumulation of miles indicates moderate to heavy operational exposure, particularly on suspension, tyres, and braking systems. Longer stationary periods can exacerbate issues such as brake disc corrosion, caliper binding, and fluid degradation, so any extended periods without use should be factored into the inspection, especially for components prone to standing corrosion like brake discs and suspension linkages. Given the recurring advisories on front tyre wear and rear suspension arm bush condition, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyres for uneven wear patterns, edge wear, or signs of hydroplaning susceptibility, as these can indicate alignment or steering system issues. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the suspension, particularly when transitioning between bumps or corners, which may signal worn trailing arm bushings or damaged coil springs. The front brake discs, though not yet failing, should be checked for signs of excessive heat discolouration or glazing, which could suggest prolonged high-load braking or underlying brake system wear. Additionally, verify that the brake fluid level is consistent and that there are no leaks around the calipers or master cylinder, as standing brake fluid can corrode internal components. For the broader vehicle assessment, the buyer should also examine the rear suspension for any signs of excessive play or binding in the trailing arms, which could worsen with further mileage. Check the wheel bearings for excessive whining or grinding noises, especially when cornering or starting from a standstill, as this could indicate early bearing failure. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive noise, which may point to catalytic converter or muffler issues, and verify that the emissions system is functioning without unusual smells or smoke. Given the vehicle’s age, a visual check for tyre sidewall perishing or cracking due to age-related degradation is essential, as this can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Lastly, since the Mondeo is nearing its typical service intervals, consider confirming the presence of any service book stamps for fluid replacements, particularly brake fluid, differential fluid, and coolant, as these should be renewed at 60,000–100,000 miles or every five years, whichever comes first. A professional pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic would be advisable to confirm the condition of critical components like the engine mounts, transmission, and electrical systems, which may not have been addressed in the MOT due to their non-roadworthiness nature.