1998 Ford Mondeo 1.8L Diesel · R175 EJO

The 1998 Ford Mondeo’s most recent MOT on 2022-10-07 at 177,147 miles recorded a pass with no defects, indicating a stable maintenance trend. However, the absence of subsequent tests since 2022 raises concerns, as the vehicle has not been assessed for over four years. This gap suggests potential neglect in routine inspections, which could mask emerging issues. The prior 2021-10-20 test at 176,698 miles also passed without defects, but a failed test on 2021-10-19 at the same mileage and distance implies an inconsistency in the records. This anomaly may reflect administrative errors or unrecorded repairs, warranting closer scrutiny of the vehicle’s service history. The mileage progression shows consistent annual usage of approximately 6,327 miles, aligning with typical patterns for a 28-year-old vehicle. The 2020-10-28 test at 176,238 miles and 2019-11-06 test at 175,822 miles both passed without defects, reinforcing a lack of significant mechanical failures in the preceding years. However, the sparse data from 2019 to 2022—only five tests over three years—limits insight into long-term wear. The vehicle’s age and mileage suggest that components such as exhaust emissions, suspension bushes, and brake discs may require evaluation, even if not flagged in MOT records. A buyer should prioritise a professional inspection of the suspension system, particularly coil springs and bushings, which degrade over time. The rear brakes and exhaust system should also be checked for corrosion or wear, as these are common failure points in older vehicles. While the MOT history shows no critical defects, the absence of recent tests means unrecorded issues could exist. Structural integrity, including rust on the chassis or body panels, should be assessed, as the vehicle’s age increases the risk of hidden corrosion. The lack of recurring faults in the records is reassuring, but the extended gap since the last MOT necessitates a thorough pre-purchase check.