2017 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · WN17 FHO

The most recent MOT inspection on 15 April 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance profile shows a concerning trend of increasing advisories regarding the braking system. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent pass record since 2020, the frequency and nature of the defects have escalated significantly over the last two years. The transition from a clean record in 2021 and 2022 to recurring advisories for worn brake pads and pitted or lipped brake discs suggests that the braking components are reaching the end of their service life and are not being proactively replaced. This indicates a reactive rather than preventative maintenance approach by the previous owner, which may necessitate immediate investment in a full brake overhaul. With approximately 99,266 miles recorded over nine years, this Ford Mondeo has averaged roughly 11,000 miles per year, which is considered typical for a family vehicle of this age and class. This level of usage suggests the car has been driven regularly enough to avoid the specific degradation associated with long periods of standing, such as excessive brake seizure or fuel system stagnation. However, the mileage is approaching the six-figure mark, which is a critical threshold for several major mechanical components. At this stage, you should expect increased wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, and various rubber seals, alongside the potential need for timing belt or auxiliary belt replacement if it has not been documented in the service history. The recurring advisories regarding the front brake discs being worn and lipped, alongside the nearside rear brake pads wearing thin, are the most pressing mechanical concerns. During your test drive, you must listen for any metallic grinding noises when applying the brakes and feel for any pulsation or shudder through the brake pedal, which would indicate warped or heavily scored discs. You should also check for any pulling to one side during braking, which could signal a binding caliper or uneven pad wear. The previous advisory regarding low oil levels is also a red flag; you should inspect the engine bay for signs of oil weeping from gaskets or seals and verify that the oil is not excessively dark or viscous, as consistent low oil levels can lead to premature engine wear or turbocharger issues. Finally, pay close attention to the tyres, as the history shows multiple advisories for sidewall damage. Inspect the outer edges of all four tyres for cuts, bulges, or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and lead to sudden failure. Given the age of the vehicle, even if the tread depth appears sufficient, check the manufacture date on the sidewall to ensure the rubber has not perished or become brittle. You should also verify the service book for evidence of regular oil and filter changes, as the MOT history suggests the engine may have been running near minimum oil capacity. Ensure that any recent work, such as the replacement of the nearside windscreen wiper noted in the 2025 failure, has been completed to a professional standard.