2016 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · LC66 ACF

A significant red flag emerges from the March 2026 MOT, where the off‑side rear service brake was recorded as excessively binding, the rear brakes were deemed imbalanced across the axle and the near‑side rear seat‑belt webbing was found severely weakened. Those three major failures, coupled with an inoperative off‑side rear registration lamp, indicate that the braking system and restraint safety components were not roadworthy at that point, even though the vehicle was re‑tested two days later and passed with only a minor windscreen issue. The recent pass therefore masks a serious mechanical concern that resurfaced only days after the failure, suggesting that remedial work may have been superficial or incomplete. At 104,114 mi on a 2016 model the average annual accumulation sits around 10,400 mi, which aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. The MOT record shows a consistent yearly testing pattern with no prolonged gaps, implying the car has been kept on the road rather than stored for extended periods. Such mileage places normal wear expectations on consumables such as brake pads, discs, suspension bushings and tyre tread, meaning these items are likely approaching the latter stages of their service life and should be inspected closely. Given the documented brake binding and imbalance, a prospective buyer should feel for any pedal pulsation, excessive travel or grinding noises during a test drive, especially when applying the rear brakes. Listen for uneven squeal or feel for a pull to one side, which could indicate worn pads, warped discs or deteriorated hydraulic components. The weakened rear seat‑belt webbing must be examined visually for fraying or cuts; any compromise requires immediate replacement to meet safety standards. The off‑side rear registration lamp should be verified as functional, and any windscreen chips noted in the MOTs should be inspected for propagation that could affect structural integrity. Tyre advisories appear in the 2023 and 2025 MOTs, flagging front and rear tyres as close to the legal tread limit and showing edge wear. Verify tread depth across all four wheels, checking for uneven wear patterns that might point to mis‑aligned suspension or worn steering components. While the MOTs only recorded minor windscreen damage, ensure that the chips do not extend into the driver's line of sight or compromise the glass’s strength. Addressing these specific items before purchase will provide a clearer picture of the vehicle’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing the braking and safety systems back to a reliable state.