2014 Ford Mondeo 1.6L Diesel · YB14 BMY

A pattern of front‑end suspension play and tyre edge wear dominates the MOT history, and the latest inspection on 28 May 2025 culminated in a failure for insufficient windscreen washer fluid while retaining advisories for the EML warning light and near‑side front tyre tread approaching the legal limit. Earlier tests show recurring advisories for slight play in the near‑side front track‑rod end and suspension‑arm ball joint, and a near‑side rear tyre similarly close to the legal limit, indicating that the front steering and suspension geometry have been a persistent concern. At 339,127 mi for a 2014 model the vehicle averages roughly 28,000 mi per year, well above the typical UK usage pattern. This high kilometre accumulation accelerates wear on consumables such as tyres, brake components and bushings, and places additional stress on the suspension linkages that have already been flagged. The MOT record shows no long gaps between tests, suggesting the vehicle has been kept on the road continuously rather than stored, which reinforces the expectation of progressive component fatigue. When inspecting the car, pay particular attention to the front steering assembly: listen for clunking or knocking over bumps, feel for any looseness or wandering under steering input, and check for uneven tyre wear that could betray misaligned ball joints or a worn track‑rod end. The near‑side front tyre should be measured for tread depth across the centre and edges; any depth below 1.6 mm or pronounced edge wear will require immediate replacement. Verify that the windscreen washer pump delivers a steady spray and that the reservoir refills correctly, as the MOT failure was solely for insufficient washer fluid. Confirm that all external lamps function, notably the near‑side rear registration‑plate lamp that was recorded inoperative in 2024, and that the EML warning indicator illuminates correctly. A thorough visual inspection of the suspension arms, ball joints and associated bushings for corrosion or cracked rubber is advisable, as is a test‑drive to assess brake pedal feel and any pulsation that could hint at hidden disc or caliper issues not captured by the MOT. Addressing these specific items before purchase will clarify the vehicle’s current roadworthiness and help avoid unexpected failures shortly after acquisition.