2008 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · SG08 EWM

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward reactive repairs rather than proactive upkeep. While the most recent test in September 2024 at 135,914 miles passed, the tester flagged the exhaust flexi and diesel particulate filter in poor condition. This follows a recurring issue noted in the January 2021 test at 122,689 miles, indicating that the exhaust system is gradually degrading and has not been replaced. At 135,914 miles over 18 years, the Mondeo averages approximately 7,550 miles per year, which is consistent with typical UK usage for its age. There is a significant gap in recorded mileage between January 2023 and September 2024, where the vehicle covered only 4,780 miles in twenty months. This lower annual mileage suggests the car may sit for long periods, which can often lead to the degradation of rubber components and seals, as evidenced by the suspension failures seen in the 2022 records. A buyer must conduct a close inspection of the front suspension and braking system. The January 2022 failure revealed multiple critical issues including a rough nearside front wheel bearing, a failing Macpherson strut mounting, and a worn anti-roll bar ball joint. Although these were rectified for the subsequent pass, the presence of worn rear trailing arm bushes in that same test suggests the entire underbody assembly is reaching the end of its functional life. The buyer should also check for play in the steering geometry and verify the current thickness of the brake pads, as the vehicle previously recorded pads below the 1.5mm limit. The history of tyres worn to the limit in 2022 further suggests the previous owner neglected basic maintenance until an MOT failure forced action. Given the condition of the exhaust flex and DPF, a professional check for exhaust leaks or soot buildup is necessary to avoid high replacement costs in the near future.