2017 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · WM17 DLD

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 Ford Mondeo, conducted on 2026-06-19, resulted in a passing grade, though it did include several advisories that warrant careful attention. This follows a previous failure in 2026-06-18 due to a major fault in the tyre pressure monitoring system, which indicates a recurring issue that could signal underlying wear or sensor failure in the vehicle’s tyre management system. The advisories from both tests—such as front brake disc wear, thin brake pads, and an oil leak—suggest that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, its braking system and lubrication are approaching critical thresholds. The pattern of advisories rather than outright failures suggests a maintenance trend that is neither significantly improving nor deteriorating drastically, but rather requires consistent monitoring to prevent escalation into major defects. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 138,536 miles at the time of this assessment represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 15,393 miles per year, which is notably elevated for a nine-year-old Mondeo. Such high mileage typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems, as well as on structural elements exposed to prolonged stress. The absence of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests—particularly the failure in June 2026 coinciding with the latest pass—implies that the vehicle has been driven regularly, likely under conditions that contribute to accelerated component fatigue. Buyers should be mindful that this usage profile may necessitate more frequent servicing, particularly for brake systems, suspension bushings, and fluid checks, to mitigate long-term damage. Given the recurring advisories—particularly those related to brake wear, tyre condition, and oil leaks—this Ford Mondeo requires a thorough pre-purchase inspection to confirm the absence of underlying issues. During the inspection, focus on the braking system: listen for uneven brake pad wear or grinding noises when applying the brakes, and check for any binding or excessive play in the calipers, which could indicate warping or seized components. Inspect the front brake discs for significant pitting, scoring, or warping, and measure their thickness against the manufacturer’s specifications—thin pads and worn discs are critical to avoid failure during deceleration. Additionally, verify the oil leak by examining the engine bay for dark, tarry deposits around the oil cap, dipstick, or oil filter, and check for fluid under the vehicle when parked on a level surface. If the leak persists, it may stem from a failing oil seal or valve cover gasket, which could lead to increased oil consumption or contamination of the combustion chamber over time. For tyre condition, beyond the advisories indicating near-legal wear, buyers should inspect the sidewall for signs of perishing, cracking, or separation, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Given the vehicle’s age and high mileage, sidewall damage is a particular concern, as it may not be detectable by tread depth alone. Check the tyre pressures and ensure the TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) is functioning correctly, as the previous failure highlights potential sensor failure. The registration plate advisories are non-mechanical but should be addressed for legal compliance, particularly if the deterioration affects readability. For fluid servicing, consider checking the coolant, brake fluid, and differential/transmission fluids for age-related degradation, as these fluids can degrade over time even without use. Finally, assess the 12V battery health, as prolonged standing or high mileage can accelerate battery failure, and verify that all service book stamps have been recorded, especially for critical intervals like oil changes and brake system servicing. If the vehicle has been in storage for extended periods, additional checks for corrosion on standing components, such as brake discs or suspension linkages, are essential.