2014 Ford Mondeo 1.6L Diesel · HJ14 OCW

The Mondeo presents a mixed picture. The most recent test on 21 May 2025 at 77,393 miles was a pass, but only after an initial fail on the same day for exposed ply cords on both front tyres. That is a serious failure, indicating the previous owner drove the car on tyres in a dangerous condition before replacing them for the retest. The maintenance trend is not stable. It shows a pattern of neglecting basic consumable checks, with recurring oil leaks and persistent tyre degradation appearing across multiple years. The mileage pattern is broadly typical for a 2014 car, averaging roughly 6,449 miles per year. The jump from 67,614 miles in June 2023 to 72,096 miles in June 2024 represents about 4,482 miles in twelve months, which is slightly below the annual average. However, the mileage then barely moved between June 2024 and May 2025, gaining only 297 miles in nearly a year. This suggests the car has recently been standing idle or used very sparingly. A long period of inactivity can cause tyre perishing and fluid seals to dry out, which aligns with the advisories seen in the record. The recurring oil leak advisory, noted as non-excessive since at least June 2023 at 67,614 miles, points to a minor but persistent engine oil seep. A buyer should inspect the engine rocker cover gasket and camshaft oil seals for fresh wetness. The repeated rear tyre cracking and perishing, flagged every year since 2023, suggests the car has spent time on aged rubber. Check the date stamps on all four tyres. The 2024 failure for excessive exhaust emissions at 71,987 miles, which cleared by the June 2024 pass, hints at a possible intermittent engine management or catalytic converter issue. A live diagnostic scan for stored fault codes is advisable. The 2024 failure for inner edge wear on the front tyres indicates possible worn suspension bushes or incorrect front wheel alignment. Inspect the front lower arm bushes and track rod ends for play. The 2024 windscreen washer failure, though minor, suggests a blown pump or blocked jet, so test both washers and wipers thoroughly. Given the exposed cord failure in May 2025, a full brake inspection is prudent. Check the condition of the front brake discs and pads, and ensure the rear calipers are not binding, as uneven tyre wear can mask underlying braking drag.