2016 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · YP16 PPK

The most recent MOT on 9 June 2026 was passed, but it carried three advisories concerning slight damage or cracking on both front tyres and a nail in the nearside rear tyre. The preceding test a day earlier failed on several major items – a non‑functional tyre‑pressure monitoring system, a faulty off‑side front side‑repeater lamp and an excessively worn off‑side front lower suspension arm ball‑joint. Earlier years show a pattern of intermittent failures (ball‑joint wear in 2023, wiper inefficacy in 2022) interspersed with clean passes. Overall the maintenance trend appears to be improving in that the major faults identified in the June 2026 failure have been rectified for the pass, yet the recurrence of tyre‑related advisories and the persistence of suspension wear suggest that underlying wear is not yet fully addressed. At 84,370 miles the Mondeo averages roughly 8,400 miles per annum, which is typical for a ten‑year‑old family saloon. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage that would point to accelerated wear, but the relatively moderate annual use combined with the vehicle’s age means that many components are now more subject to calendar‑related degradation than pure mileage wear. Consequently, items such as rubber seals, tyre compounds and battery plates may be approaching the end of their useful life even if the odometer reads modest figures. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front tyre set. The advisories note cracking, perishing and a cut on each front tyre; these are early signs of tread separation and sidewall deterioration that can manifest as a bulge, vibration or a sudden loss of pressure. Verify that the tyre‑pressure monitoring system is fully operational and that the tyre pressures are within specification. Inspect the off‑side front lower suspension arm ball‑joint for any play, uneven wear or a split boot – symptoms on a test drive would be a clunk or knock when steering over bumps or during hard cornering. Check the side‑repeater lamp and the nearside direction indicator for proper illumination, as electrical faults can reappear if wiring connections are corroded. The brake pads were noted as thin in 2023; measure the remaining pad thickness and listen for any squeal or shudder when applying the brakes, and examine the discs for scoring or rust that could affect braking efficiency. Finally, confirm that the windscreen wipers clear the glass effectively, especially in wet conditions, as a lingering wiper fault can impair visibility. Beyond the specific MOT items, the vehicle’s age warrants a thorough calendar‑based inspection. Examine the 12‑volt battery for sulphation, low cranking voltage and any swelling of the case; a load test or a check of the electrolyte level (if accessible) will reveal its health. Verify that all engine oils, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals – old fluids can become contaminated, reducing lubrication and leading to premature wear. Look for corrosion on suspension bushes, chassis mounts and under‑body panels, particularly if the car has spent long periods stationary; any rust‑spurred bushings will produce looseness and uneven tyre wear. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, especially if the car has been parked for extended periods, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. A complete service book with stamps for major services, timing belt or chain replacement (if applicable) and any component replacements will provide confidence that the vehicle has been maintained in line with manufacturer recommendations.