2009 Ford Galaxy 2.0L Diesel · LR59 AUT

A persistent theme of steering and suspension wear runs through the MOT record of this 2009 Ford Galaxy, with advisories appearing across virtually every test since at least 2019. The most recent examination on 23 March 2023 resulted in a pass, but the underlying pattern is concerning: rear brake pads were flagged as wearing thin, continuing a similar advisory recorded in 2018. More significantly, the 2022 test alone noted slight free play in the steering rack, slight play in the nearside front track rod end ball joint, and worn pins or bushes in both rear suspension arms — components that had previously appeared as advisories as far back as 2019. The single recorded failure, in September 2018, was caused by a deep offside rear tyre cut exposing ply or cords and a faulty rear registration plate lamp; both defects were rectified for the same-day retest which subsequently passed. Despite the pass on that occasion, advisories for rear brake pad wear and steering box free play on the offside front were already in evidence, confirming that the present-day mechanical issues are not recent developments but a continuation of long-running wear. Mileage data is not available within the MOT history, so it is not possible to calculate an accurate annual accumulation rate or identify gaps in usage that might indicate extended periods off the road. However, the continuity of testing — annual or near-annual entries from March 2018 through to March 2023 — strongly suggests the vehicle has remained in regular use throughout this period rather than being laid up. Without odometer readings, any judgement regarding high or low mileage, or whether usage has been predominantly urban, motorway, or mixed, cannot be substantiated from the records supplied. Any prospective buyer should therefore verify the current mileage independently through the V5C document and service records before drawing conclusions about mechanical wear relative to age. Given the recurring steering and suspension advisories, a test drive should focus carefully on these systems. Listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear suspension over bumps, particularly on uneven surfaces, as worn trailing arm bushes and pins on a Galaxy of this age are well-documented weak points and can permit noticeable movement under load. With the steering, feel for any vagueness, slop, or slack around the straight-ahead position, and pay attention to whether the steering wheel returns smoothly to centre after cornering; any hesitation or juddering through the rack may indicate that the slight free play noted since 2019 has now progressed to a point requiring replacement. On the nearside front, check for excessive movement when rocking the front wheel by hand, which would confirm wear in the track rod end ball joint. Brake-related items also warrant close attention during inspection. The repeated rear brake pad advisories, together with brake disc wear advisories noted on all four corners in March 2019, suggest a vehicle whose braking components have been steadily consumed over time. On a test drive, the pedal should feel firm and progressive without excessive travel, and there should be no pulling to either side under braking, which could indicate a binding caliper. Inspect the visible pad material through the wheel spokes and check the disc edges for pronounced lipping. The 2019 advisory noted an oil leak that was not considered excessive; at this age, oil leaks from the engine or power steering system are common on Ford units of this era, so it would be prudent to inspect the underside and engine bay for fresh seepage, staining, or drips, particularly around the cam cover, sump, and steering rack gaiters, as these can accelerate if left unaddressed.