1997 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Petrol · R153 CMB

The most recent MOT, dated 10 October 2015, resulted in a failure, principally for the windscreen washer system, insecure wiper blades and excessive wear and play in the front anti‑roll bar ball‑joint dust covers. Earlier tests from 2010 back to 2008 were passes, with only a user‑entered comment about slight brake binding and two advisories concerning front brake disc wear. The pattern therefore shows a decline in condition after a period of apparently stable performance, indicating that the vehicle’s maintenance may have become irregular in recent years. With a recorded 95,364 mi on a 1997 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 3,300 mi, well below the typical 8‑12 000 mi per year for a car of this age. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of inactivity rather than gentle use, which can be as detrimental as high mileage because components may deteriorate from age, corrosion and fluid breakdown even when not driven. The relatively modest total mileage means that many wear items will still be within their service lives, but the lack of regular operating cycles can accelerate rubber hardening, metal fatigue and battery sulphation. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the windscreen washer pump and associated hoses, confirming that the pump delivers a steady spray and that there are no leaks or cracked hoses. The wiper blades must be firmly mounted and free of excessive play; any looseness will cause poor visibility in rain. The front anti‑roll bar ball joints and their dust covers should be inspected for excessive movement, corrosion or missing rubber boots, as play in these joints can lead to clunking over bumps and compromised handling. The brake system warrants a thorough check: the front discs, flagged as pitted in 2008, should be measured for thickness and inspected for deep scoring that could affect braking efficiency, while the slight brake binding noted in 2010 may indicate a sticking caliper or seized piston; feel for any pulling to one side, uneven pedal feel or a shudder under moderate braking. A test drive should include listening for squeaks or rattles from the suspension, especially over uneven surfaces, and observing whether the steering feels tight or vague. Given the vehicle’s age, independent of the recorded defects, the buyer should verify the condition of the tyres, looking for sidewall cracks, dry rot or uneven wear that may stem from prolonged storage. The 12‑volt battery should be load‑tested, as long periods of inactivity often lead to sulphation and reduced cranking power. Examine the chassis and under‑tray for rust, particularly around suspension mounting points and the exhaust system, where standing water can accelerate corrosion. All fluid reservoirs—engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid—should be checked for colour, level and signs of contamination, and a full service, including oil and filter change, is advisable if the service book shows gaps of more than twelve months. A comprehensive visual inspection of suspension bushes, coil springs and steering rack boots will help confirm that the low mileage has not masked age‑related wear, ensuring the Mondeo is mechanically sound before purchase.