2017 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · VK67 KKC

The most recent MOT inspection on 13 March 2026 resulted in a pass, though it introduced a new advisory regarding play in the nearside front suspension arm ball joint. When reviewing the longitudinal maintenance trend, the vehicle shows a history of intermittent advisories primarily related to tyre condition and minor component wear rather than systemic mechanical failure. While the 2025 test was entirely clean, the emergence of a suspension component advisory suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase where rubber bushes and jointed components are beginning to degrade. The overall maintenance profile appears stable, but the recent advisory indicates that wear is progressing and should be addressed to prevent future failure. With a recorded mileage of 45,640 miles over approximately nine years, this Ford Mondeo has been driven at an average rate of roughly 5,071 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, suggesting the vehicle has likely seen light usage or has spent extended periods stationary. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it presents specific risks associated with infrequent use. Long periods of standing can lead to the degradation of rubber components, the drying out of seals, and the accumulation of moisture in fluids, which can cause internal corrosion or premature component failure despite the low odometer reading. The most immediate mechanical concern for a prospective buyer is the nearside front suspension arm ball joint. During a test drive, you should listen closely for any rhythmic knocking, clunking, or clicking sounds when navigating uneven road surfaces or turning the steering wheel. Any sensation of looseness or imprecise steering response could indicate that the play in the ball joint is worsening. Furthermore, the historical advisories regarding tyre perishing and uneven wear suggest that the vehicle's rubber components, including tyres and potentially suspension bushes, may be aging due to time rather than distance. You must inspect the sidewalls of all tyres for any signs of cracking or perishing, particularly if the vehicle has been stored outdoors, and check that the tread is even across the width of the tyre to ensure the wheel alignment is correct. Given the low annual mileage, you should also conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle's fluids and battery health. Check the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting, which can occur when a car is not driven frequently enough to clear the oxidation. It is also advisable to verify the service history to ensure that oil and coolant changes have been performed on a calendar basis rather than solely based on mileage, as fluids degrade over time regardless of use. Finally, check the 12V battery for signs of terminal corrosion and ensure the underside of the vehicle is free from excessive corrosion or fluid leaks that may have developed from the vehicle standing for long periods.