2003 Ford Mondeo 1.8L Petrol · RO03 AFY

The Ford Mondeo’s most recent MOT tests, conducted just four months ago on 16 March 2026, reveal a stable but concerning pattern. Both tests at 171,205 and 171,206 miles passed without recorded defects, yet the back-to-back retest suggests the tester may have overlooked critical issues or the vehicle narrowly avoided failure on minor criteria. The lack of advisories or defects across all five tests implies no recurring mechanical failures, but the repeated retest at the same mileage raises suspicion over whether the tester missed binding brakes, worn suspension bushes, or excessive corrosion—common fail points for this model age. Without visible faults in the record, the vehicle’s roadworthiness cannot be definitively confirmed without a professional inspection. The recorded mileage of 171,206 miles over 23 years aligns with typical usage for this model, averaging around 7,444 miles annually. There are no significant gaps or spikes in mileage between tests, with the most recent interval covering just 5,889 miles since March 2025. This suggests consistent driving rather than prolonged neglect or rapid deterioration. However, the absence of intermediate MOTs or service records means no insight exists into whether major components—such as timing belts, differential fluid, or suspension geometry—have been serviced or replaced. The lack of advisories does not guarantee these areas are sound. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, which often degrade silently in this model. The brakes, while not failing in tests, may exhibit uneven wear or binding—common in older Mondeos—so caliper function and disc thickness should be checked. Structural corrosion, particularly around the sills, wheel arches, and subframe, is a critical risk for this era vehicle, as is the integrity of the exhaust system, which frequently fails due to rust through. The engine bay should be examined for leaks or worn hoses, while the interior’s electrical components, such as the dashboard and seatbelts, may show signs of age-related degradation.