2014 Ford Mondeo 1.6L Diesel · LS14 OLR

The most recent MOT, carried out on 20 November 2025, was passed but recorded a number of advisories – a nearside rear registration‑plate lamp fault, wear on both front inner brake discs, and wear on the nearside rear and central rear suspension arm pins or bushes. Earlier in the record the vehicle suffered dangerous tyre failures in 2020 and again in December 2024, which would have required tyre replacement before the next test. Since those incidents the MOTs have been clean of dangerous defects, indicating that the tyre issues have been addressed, while the current advisories point to gradual wear rather than imminent failure. Overall the maintenance trend can be described as stable, with the main concerns now being normal wear items that should be monitored rather than a pattern of deteriorating condition. At 71,597 miles on a 2014 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 5,900 miles per year, well below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 miles annually. Such low utilisation often reflects either light, occasional driving or extended periods of storage. While the reduced mileage lessens wear on engine and drivetrain components, it also raises the likelihood of age‑related degradation – rubber hardening, battery sulfation and corrosion – especially if the car has spent long spells idle. There are no obvious spikes in mileage that would suggest a period of heavy use, so the wear observed is more likely to be calendar‑driven. A prospective buyer should give the tyres a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Confirm that the tread depth on all four wheels exceeds the legal 1.6 mm limit, check the sidewalls for any cracking, perishing or exposed ply, and verify that the tyres are of the correct size and type for the Mondeo. While on a test drive listen for any high‑pitched squeal or low‑frequency grinding that could indicate the front discs are approaching the end of their serviceable life; the advisories on the front inner discs suggest they are already pitted and may need resurfacing or replacement within the next few thousand miles. Examine the rear suspension by applying firm pressure over the rear corners and listening for clunks or excessive movement, which would confirm the advisory about rear arm bush wear; any noticeable play could translate to a noisy ride or premature tyre wear. Because the car has been lightly used for many years, the buyer should also check age‑related items that are not captured by the MOT. Test the 12 V battery voltage under load and inspect the terminals for corrosion; a battery older than five years may be nearing the end of its useful life. Verify that all fluid levels – brake, coolant, power‑steering and engine oil – are topped up and that the brake fluid has been changed within the last two years, as it absorbs moisture over time. Look for any signs of under‑body rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and ensure the nearside rear registration‑plate lamp functions correctly. Finally, review the service book for regular oil changes and any recorded replacement of wear items; a well‑documented service history will give confidence that the vehicle has been maintained in line with its age and mileage.