2009 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Petrol · MF09 MVM

The most recent MOT, carried out on 6 February 2026, was recorded as a pass but it was accompanied by several advisories – notably a defective exhaust mounting and corrosion on both front and rear sub‑frames as well as the front suspension arm. Earlier in the same day an ABS fault was flagged as a major failure, indicating that the anti‑lock braking system has not been rectified since the 2024 and 2021 failures. Over the past five years the record shows a pattern of recurring major defects (ABS and horn failures) and a growing list of advisories relating to corrosion, brake wear and door catch deterioration, suggesting that the overall maintenance trend is currently worsening rather than stabilising. At 191,554 mi the Mondeo has logged roughly 11,300 mi per annum over its 17‑year life, a usage rate that sits squarely within the normal range for a family saloon of this age. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage that would point to accelerated wear, but the cumulative distance means that wear items such as suspension bushings, engine mounts, brake components and tyre tread are likely approaching the end of their service lives. The mileage also implies the vehicle has spent a fair amount of time in service rather than being stored, which can exacerbate corrosion on structural members if the car has been exposed to damp conditions. A prospective buyer should give the ABS system the highest priority. Verify that the ABS warning lamp remains extinguished after a short drive and listen for any pulsing or shuddering of the brake pedal under hard braking, which would indicate a fault in the wheel‑speed sensors or the control unit. The exhaust mounting should be inspected for cracked or broken brackets and for any rattles at idle or under acceleration, as a defective mount can lead to increased vibration and eventual pipe damage. Corrosion on the front and rear sub‑frames and the front suspension arm should be examined closely for any signs of rust penetration or loss of material thickness; any serious rust would compromise structural integrity and may require panel replacement or reinforcement. The brake pads were noted as thin on the rear side in 2021 and again in 2022, so the discs should be measured for remaining thickness and the pads inspected for uneven wear – replacement is likely imminent. In addition to the specific faults, the car’s age warrants a thorough general inspection. Check all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or delamination, as tyres older than six years can deteriorate even if the tread appears adequate. Test the 12‑volt battery’s voltage and cranking performance, especially if the vehicle has spent periods standing idle, and consider a load test. Verify that the coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed within their recommended intervals (typically every two years for brake fluid and coolant). Finally, operate each door and latch to confirm that the catches are no longer deteriorated, and run the horn and all exterior lamps to ensure full functionality before committing to purchase.