2014 Ford Mondeo 1.6L Diesel · FE14 ABK

The most recent MOT, dated 18 July 2026, resulted in a failure for the nearside headlamp aim and a minor failure for a severely deteriorated nearside front inner drive‑shaft CV boot, although the overall test was recorded as passed. This follows a 4 July 2026 test that produced multiple major failures on the rear suspension arms, an off‑side front track‑rod end, and a dangerous rear tyre condition, and a 15 July 2025 test that only raised an advisory for rear trailing‑arm bushes. The pattern shows a clear deterioration in recent months after a relatively clean 2 March 2024 MOT, indicating that the vehicle’s maintenance condition is currently worsening rather than stabilising. At 149 530 miles the 2014 Mondeo has accumulated roughly 12 500 miles per year, well above the average for a vehicle of its age. Such a high annual mileage accelerates wear on consumables such as tyres, suspension bushings, CV joints and braking components, and it also suggests the engine and transmission have been subjected to sustained load. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage, implying the car has been in regular use rather than long periods of storage, which reduces the risk of age‑related corrosion but increases the likelihood of fatigue‑type failures. A prospective buyer should give immediate attention to the rear tyre that was recorded as having exposed ply or cords and the nearside rear tyre that was close to the legal limit. Verify that both tyres have been replaced; look for uneven tread wear, sidewall cracking, bulges or foreign objects, and listen for a thumping noise when the vehicle is driven at moderate speed. The rear suspension arms were flagged for excessive wear on both sides, and the off‑side front track‑rod end showed excessive play; inspect the arm bushings and ball joints for looseness, creaking or clunking when the car is pushed over bumps or when steering inputs are applied. The nearside front CV boot was noted as severely deteriorated – check for grease leakage, torn rubber, or a clicking sound from the joint, and be prepared for a CV joint replacement if the boot has allowed contamination. The headlamp aim failure is a simple rectifiable fault but should be corrected before the next test; verify that the beam is centred and does not dazzle oncoming traffic. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, also examine time‑related items regardless of the MOT record. Inspect the 12‑volt battery for corrosion on terminals and test its cranking voltage; a battery older than ten years may need replacement. Examine all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for correct colour, level and any signs of moisture or sludge, as fluids degrade over calendar time even if mileage is moderate. Check the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven thickness, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Finally, look for any rust on the chassis, wheel arches and suspension mounting points, especially in the rear sub‑frame, as prolonged exposure to moisture can compromise structural integrity. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Mondeo’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it to a reliable, safe condition.