2018 Ford Mondeo 1.5L Diesel · ST18 XOG

A recurring pattern of component wear and fluid seepage defines this vehicle's recent mechanical profile, moving from a clean record in 2024 and 2025 to more frequent advisories and a mechanical failure in early 2026. While the most recent test on 31 March 2026 resulted in a pass, it followed a failure just four days prior due to an excessively worn nearside rear anti-roll bar pin or bush. The presence of a non-excessive oil leak, first noted in the March 2026 tests, suggests a developing issue that requires monitoring to ensure it does not escalate into a major failure or significant fluid loss. The vehicle's mileage of 143,869 miles indicates a high-intensity usage pattern, averaging approximately 18,000 miles per year over its eight-year lifespan. This level of annual accumulation is significantly above the UK average and implies that mechanical components, particularly those subject to friction and thermal stress, will have undergone substantial service life. For a vehicle of this age and distance, the focus must shift from cosmetic condition to the integrity of high-wear items such as the suspension system, braking components, and engine seals, all of which are more likely to show signs of fatigue under these driving conditions. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the suspension and drivetrain during a test drive to address the recent anti-roll bar bush failure and the ongoing oil leak advisory. Listen for any dull knocks, clunks, or rattling sounds coming from the rear of the car when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate that the anti-roll bar bush repair was insufficient or that other suspension linkages are beginning to fail. Additionally, observe the engine bay and the ground beneath the vehicle for any fresh signs of fluid dripping, and check for any unusual smells or smoke that might accompany the reported oil leak. Braking and tyre health also require scrutiny based on the 2023 records, which flagged thin rear brake pads and tyres worn close to the legal limit. Although these may have been addressed, the high mileage suggests that the braking system is under constant load. During the test drive, feel for any pedal judder, pulling to one side under braking, or unusual squealing, which could indicate binding calipers or uneven disc wear. Ensuring that the recent repairs to the nearside rear suspension have fully rectified the movement in the anti-roll bar assembly is essential for maintaining the vehicle's handling stability.