2009 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · ST59 GLK

A pattern of corrosion spreading through the structural and suspension components is the defining mechanical concern on this 2009 Ford Mondeo. Both subframes were flagged with surface corrosion at the November 2024 test, and by the most recent pass in February 2026 the issue has progressed to the offside rear vehicle structure itself, where corrosion is now recorded as visible. This progression from isolated surface corrosion on bolted-on subframes to structural areas suggests the corrosion is active rather than cosmetic, and on a seventeen-year-old car it warrants a physical inspection from underneath with a torch to gauge the depth of the rust, paying particular attention to box sections, jacking points, and the rear wheel arch lips. The February 2026 pass was issued alongside five advisories covering pitted front brake discs, play in both front track rod end ball joints, slight play in the nearside front wheel bearing, and the corrosion item already mentioned, indicating that the front-end wear items are accumulating rather than being rectified between tests. The recorded mileage of 105,604 miles across roughly seventeen years equates to an annual average of around 6,212 miles, which sits comfortably within typical usage for a car of this age. There are no significant gaps in the MOT history that would suggest a prolonged period off the road, and the testing frequency has remained consistent throughout the vehicle's life. This level of use means the engine, transmission, and major mechanical components have been worked regularly rather than left to deteriorate through standing, which is generally favourable for drivetrain longevity, though the wear pattern on consumables and suspension remains proportionate to the mileage covered. For a prospective purchaser, the front-end advisories should form the focus of any test drive. The play noted in both track rod end ball joints can manifest as vagueness or a slight knocking through the steering when turning at low speed, while the wheel bearing play is likely to present as a drone or rumble that changes with cornering loads. Pitting on the front brake discs will reduce braking bite in wet conditions and can produce vibration through the pedal under harder stops, so a firm pedal test from speed is worthwhile. The brake binding advisory recorded on the offside front caliper back in 2022 is worth revisiting by feel after a sustained drive, as a hot near-side wheel compared to the others can indicate a sticky slider or piston. The corrosion history is arguably the more serious longer-term consideration, and given the subframe and structural advisories, a ramp-based or lift inspection is strongly advisable. Check the offside rear floor pan, rear sill, and around the spare wheel well for perforation, and examine the front and rear subframes where they meet the body for any flaking that has eaten through the metal. Listen on the test drive for any clonks from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, which can indicate compromised mounting points, and feel for uneven braking pull that might suggest a binding caliper has returned. Finally, confirm that the tyres currently fitted are fresh items, as the 2023 failure record shows both front tyres were once badly worn on their edges, suggesting the tracking geometry should be checked.