2014 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · YL14 FPY

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend characterized by recurring steering and suspension issues. While the most recent test on 11 November 2025 at 115,357 miles resulted in a pass, the tester flagged play in the nearside steering rack inner joint and a damaged track rod end dust cover. These specific faults appear to be a persistent problem, as the steering rack inner joint was also identified as a failure point in the November 2023 test at 94,007 miles. This indicates that while repairs are being attempted, the steering system's integrity has not been fully resolved over a two-year period. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a typical usage pattern for a 12-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 9,600 miles per year. The records show steady progression from 26,663 miles in July 2017 to the current 115,357 miles. There are no significant gaps in the testing timeline, though the frequency of failures has increased in recent years. The 2022 test at 83,359 miles was particularly problematic, showing a significant neglect of consumables with multiple tyre defects and thin brake pads, suggesting a period where basic upkeep was deferred. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the front-end steering and suspension components. The recurring issues with the steering rack inner joints and track rod ends suggest that the steering geometry and component wear require close scrutiny. Given the 2024 advisory regarding pitted and corroded front brake discs at 103,293 miles, the braking system should also be checked for consistent performance and the condition of the calipers. Finally, the history of tyre failures, including cuts reaching the cords and uneven wear on inner edges, points toward potential alignment issues. The repeated failures for tyre tread and edge wear suggest that the vehicle may suffer from incorrect camber or toe settings, which likely contributes to the premature wear of the steering components. A physical inspection of the suspension bushes and the condition of the steering rack gaiters is essential to ensure no further structural or mechanical degradation is present.