2009 Ford Mondeo 2.0L Diesel · YP59 FYY

The vehicle presented for its most recent examination on 20 June 2026 and was awarded a Pass, although two advisories were recorded which provide an early indication of the attention this particular Mondeo will require over the coming months. The most recent advisories note an oil leak that is not considered excessive and light misting of oil on the front shock absorbers. Reviewing the trajectory of the MOT history over the preceding four years, the maintenance pattern is best described as broadly stable but with a clearly progressive deterioration in the suspension and powertrain sealing condition. Earlier tests recorded rear brake pad wear and exhaust defects, followed by advisories relating to rear coil spring corrosion, suspension arm knuckle bushes, and the continuation of front shock absorber misting. The fact that the same front shock absorbers have carried advisories across the most recent pass and the prior re-test indicates an ongoing wear trend rather than a one-off observation, and the rear suspension advisories remain unresolved from the previous year. With 121,567 miles recorded against a 2009 manufacture date, this Mondeo has covered approximately 7,151 miles annually, which sits close to the average for a vehicle of this age. There are no extended standing periods evident from the recorded mileage, and the annual accumulation appears consistent, which is favourable from the perspective of avoiding corrosion through disuse, dried rubber components, and brake seizure. That said, 121,567 miles is a significant absolute figure for any vehicle, and cumulative wear on the clutch assembly, timing chain, turbocharging components if fitted, and engine internal sealing should be considered. The repeated front shock absorber advisories combined with rear coil spring corrosion and worn upper suspension arm knuckle bushes are entirely consistent with a vehicle of this mileage and age, and these advisories should be viewed as the suspension reaching the latter portion of its service life. A prospective buyer should treat the recurring front shock absorber oil misting as the first priority for inspection. On a road test, listen for clonking or knocking over uneven surfaces, pay attention to excessive dive under braking, and observe whether the vehicle settles heavily at the rear when stationary for a short period. The misting itself is unlikely to indicate immediate failure, but it confirms that nitrogen gas pressurisation is gradually being lost, and replacement in matched pairs on the front axle is the recommended course of action before the units progress beyond advisory criteria. The rear coil spring corrosion flagged in 2024 and 2025 is a more serious concern, as corroded coil springs can fracture without warning, particularly on vehicles that have spent time exposed to road salt. Visually inspect both rear springs for surface pitting, flaking, or any visible cracking, ideally with the wheels removed, and budget for replacement if deterioration is advanced. The rear upper suspension arm knuckle bush advisories should prompt a physical check for play in the rear suspension by attempting to rock each rear wheel at the top and bottom while the vehicle is raised, listening for any knocking or feeling for lateral movement. Beyond the documented advisories, attention should also be directed to the oil leak noted in the current MOT, as even a non-excessive leak has now persisted across the most recent test. Inspect the underside for fresh oil staining, particularly around the sump, cam cover gasket, and front crankshaft seal, and monitor the dipstick between inspections. The historical exhaust mounting defect and minor exhaust gas leak recorded in 2021 and 2022 should be re-examined, as mounting rubbers deteriorate with age and a hanging exhaust can introduce drivetrain vibration and noise. Brake condition should be physically assessed through the wheels to check for corroded or scored discs, particularly given the vehicle's age and exposure to standing periods in wet conditions, and the caliper slide pins should be free to retract. Given the vehicle's calendar age, it is prudent to confirm the date and condition of the 12V battery, the timing belt or chain service interval depending on the engine variant fitted, the age of the coolant and brake fluid which degrade on a calendar basis, and the integrity of all underbonnet hoses and radiator. A thorough inspection of the tyre sidewalls for perishing cracking, even where tread depth remains adequate, is essential on a seventeen year old vehicle, and the service history should be verified to confirm regular oil and filter changes have been maintained throughout the recorded mileage.