2009 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · FP09 PUU

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Mondeo, conducted on 2025-08-19, resulted in a clean pass with only advisories present, indicating no major defects that would compromise road safety. While the vehicle has not been subject to any failures in the last two years, the history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories—particularly in brakes, tyres, suspension, and fluid leaks—which suggests a need for proactive maintenance rather than reactive repairs. The fact that the vehicle failed in 2024 with a major suspension ball joint issue and minor wiper failure, followed by multiple advisories on corrosion, wear, and fluid integrity, indicates that while the vehicle has been maintained, it has not been without wear and tear. This trend of persistent advisories rather than outright failures suggests that the Mondeo is approaching the limits of its structural and component longevity, particularly in high-wear areas like the suspension and braking systems. The recorded mileage of 135,329 miles for a vehicle aged 17 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,961 miles, which is typical for its age and class. However, the absence of recent high-mileage spikes does not necessarily mean the vehicle has been lightly used; the gaps in the MOT history—particularly the 2021 test being the most recent before the 2024 failure—could imply periods of prolonged inactivity, which often exacerbates issues like standing corrosion, brake binding, and fluid degradation. The suspension ball joint failure in 2024, for instance, may have been exacerbated by prolonged standing, leading to the deterioration of the dust cover and eventual wear of the joint. Additionally, the consistent advisories on brake discs and pads suggest that the vehicle has been driven with some degree of regularity, placing stress on consumables and wear items that require closer attention. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension and braking systems, given the recurring advisories and past failures. Begin with a thorough examination of the suspension, focusing on the front and rear coil springs for corrosion—particularly near the mounting points—and the ball joints for signs of excessive play or binding. Listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which could indicate worn or broken suspension bushes or a failing control arm. The brake system should be inspected for uneven wear on discs, which may suggest misalignment or binding calipers, and listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which could signal thin pads or damaged discs. The oil leak advisory warrants checking for oil stains under the vehicle and ensuring the engine oil level is topped up regularly, as low oil levels can accelerate wear on the suspension and drivetrain components. Beyond the mechanical checks, the tyres present the most immediate concerns due to the repeated advisories of wear close to the legal limit and sidewall damage. Inspect the tyres for signs of uneven wear patterns, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues, and check for cracks or perishing in the sidewall, a common issue in older vehicles that can lead to sudden failure. The registration plate lamp failure is a minor but necessary advisory, so ensure the lamp is securely fitted and functional. For fluid servicing, given the vehicle’s age and the advisories on oil leaks, check the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant levels, and consider replacing the oil and filter every 15,000 to 20,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first. Additionally, the 12V battery should be tested for health, as prolonged inactivity can cause corrosion or failure, and the exhaust system’s mounting should be rechecked for any signs of detachment or corrosion that could affect emissions or structural integrity. Finally, review the service history for any missing or outdated maintenance, such as timing belt replacement or suspension component servicing, which are critical for preventing catastrophic failures in a vehicle of this age.