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Ford Mondeo reliability

The Ford Mondeo fails its MOT about as often as most cars over 10 years old: 40.8% of 131,078 tests failed in 2023, against 39.7% on average.

Up to 5 years old
15.7% failed their MOT
About average
From 14,048 MOT tests of Ford Mondeos this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 81% more oftenWipers3.8% vs 2.1%
Fails 94% more oftenTyre tread depth3.1% vs 1.6%Fix about £90
Advised 42% more oftenTyre tread depth20.2% vs 14.2%Fix about £90
6 to 10 years old
22.8% failed their MOT
About average
From 71,228 MOT tests of Ford Mondeos this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 32% more oftenTyre tread depth3.3% vs 2.5%Fix about £90
Fails 2× as oftenRegistration plate lamp(s)2.2% vs 1%Fix about £30
Fails 43% more oftenDirection indicators1% vs 0.7%
Advised 3× as oftenRegistration plate lamp(s)5.3% vs 2.1%Fix about £30
Over 10 years old
40.8% failed their MOT
About average
From 131,078 MOT tests of Ford Mondeos this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 44% more oftenTyre condition5.9% vs 4.1%Fix about £90
Fails 39% more oftenMechanical brake components4.3% vs 3.1%
Fails 62% more oftenExhaust system3.4% vs 2.1%Fix about £150
Fails 44% more oftenWheel bearings1.3% vs 0.9%
Advised 37% more oftenMechanical brake components23.2% vs 16.9%
Advised 53% more oftenSuspension arms18.5% vs 12.1%
Advised 62% more oftenSprings10.2% vs 6.3%Fix about £150
Advised 2× as oftenSub-frames9.1% vs 4.2%
Safety recalls

31 DVSA recalls for the Ford Mondeo

Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.

R/2026/1815 May 2026Built 2019–2020Multi Vehicle Line (MVL): Telecommunications Control Module (TCU) loss of Function Software Update

Affected vehicles may experience a loss of emergency call system (eCall) functionality which impacts both automatic and manual eCall events.

Fix: Update the Telematics Control Unit software to the latest level.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 13 vehicles

R/2025/3598 Sept 2025Built 2019CrossCar: Sync3 Rear-View Camera Software Update

On affected vehicles a software problem may result in issues with the rear-view camera that reduce the driver’s view or with it remaining on after a reversing event.

Fix: Update the vehicle software to the latest level.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 1 vehicles

R/2025/09419 Dec 2024Built 2019–2022X-Car Powertain Control Module (PCM) Software Update

Affected vehicles may develop a crack in the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

Fix: Update software to prevent a cracked DPF. Test and replace DPFs that are already cracked.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 336 vehicles

R/2026/07623 May 2024Built 2014–2017Brake Hose Leak

On affected vehicles there is the possibility of the front brake hoses leaking.

Fix: Replace both front brake hoses and modify the hose routing and ride height sensor if necessary.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 18,976 vehicles

R/2020/01330 Oct 2020Built 2007–2017Takata air bag inflator may rupture on deployment

Drivers airbag may not deploy correctly

Fix: Replace Driver air bag assembly

Recalled models: MONDEO · 219,738 vehicles

R/2019/21229 Aug 2019Built 2014–2019Potential battery acid leakage around negative terminal

Possible thermal incident within the battery monitor sensor wiring

Fix: Install a fused jumper loom into the battery monitor sensor wiring

Recalled models: MONDEO · 56,154 vehicles

R/2019/02014 Jun 2019Built 2010–2014Overheating of the engine cylinder head may cause the cylinder head to crack

localized overheating of the engine cylinder head may cause the cylinder head to crack.This may cause a pressurized oil leak which in extreme circumstances could result in a fire in the engine compartment.

Fix: A coolant level sensor needs to be fitted to provide an audible and visual warning to the customer and in extreme circumstances reduce the engine power.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 4,026 vehicles

R/2018/35122 Feb 2019Built 2016–2018Vehicle could suffer clutch pressure plate fracture

A number of vehicles fitted with a 1.0 1.5 or 1.6 Ecoboost engine and 6-speed manual transmission could suffer clutch pressure plate fracture. This results in clutch smell reduced vehicle speed and performance. In the unlikely event of clutch pressure plate fracture a noise (thud / bang) could be heard from the vicinity of the transmission in extreme cases resulting in clutch / transmission fragments being released and striking under hood components creating a risk of smoke and fire from the under hood area.

Fix: To prevent the repeated heating /cooling events a new calibration has been developed for vehicles fitted with Engine Stop Start feature. The software with the additional feature sets the Instrument panel �Wrench light� and de-rates the engine performance if prolonged clutch slip is detected. The software feature includes a drive cycle strategy for latching the wrench light and engine performance de-rate if the customer should experience repeated clutch slip events. For vehicles that do not have Engine Stop Start feature an alternative clutch kit has been released.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 66,497 vehicles

R/2018/25719 Dec 2018Built 2017The tilt/slide roof opening panel glass s not correctly bonded to its mounting

Tilt/slide roof opening panel glass is not correctly bonded to its mounting.

Fix: Install a new roof opening glass panel on affected vehicles.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 11 vehicles

R/2018/2137 Nov 2018Built 2014–2018Possible low torque condition with the air conditioning clutch fastener

A/C Compressor pulley may become detached.

Fix: On affected vehicles fit a new A/C compressor clutch pulley.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 3,021 vehicles

R/2018/08216 Jul 2018Built 2009–2016Clutch pressure plate may fracture

Affected vehicles fitted with a 1.0 1.5 or 1.6 Ecoboost engine and 6-speed manual transmission could suffer clutch pressure plate fracture. This results in clutch smell reduced vehicle speed and performance. In the unlikely event of clutch pressure plate fracture a noise (thud / bang) could be heard from the vicinity of the transmission in extreme cases resulting in clutch / transmission fragments being released and striking under hood components creating a risk of smoke and fire from the under hood area.

Fix: To prevent the repeated heating /cooling events a new calibration has been developed for vehicles fitted with Engine Stop Start feature. The software with the additional feature sets the Instrument panel �Wrench light� and de-rates the engine performance if prolonged clutch slip is detected. The software feature includes a drive cycle strategy for latching the wrench light and engine performance de-rate if the customer should experience repeated clutch slip events. For vehicles that do not have Engine Stop Start feature an alternative clutch kit has been released.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 122,199 vehicles

R/2018/05312 Mar 2018Built 2014–2015Oil sump may crack due to the engine overheating

The engine control module calibration may not adequately detect an overheat condition in certain 2.0L Duratorq Diesel engines. In extreme cases an overheated engine can result in a breach of the oil sump leading to loss of the engine oil.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and download revised software for the control module calibration that improves overheat detection and provides an instrument cluster warning indicator to the driver and engine de-rate strategy.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 48,595 vehicles

R/2017/02022 Feb 2017Built 2014–2016Seat belt pre-tensioner may malfunction

The driver side front seat belt pre-tensioner cable could separate during deployment leaving the driver inadequately restrained in a collision which increases the risk of injury.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and fit a new driver side front seat belt assembly.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 9 vehicles

R/2016/11320 Jun 2016Built 2014–2015Headlamps may switch off without warning

Vehicles fitted with Adaptive LED Headlamps could experience a condition where the loss of a control signal in combination with a software error may cause the headlamps to switch off. There is a risk of collision if defect happens at night.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and updated software will be loaded to the affected modules.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 9,705 vehicles

R/2013/10313 Sept 2013Built 2012–2013Fire may occur

It is possible that a leak can occur between the injector spill rail connection and the plastic fuel return pipe. This can cause leakage of fuel which can either pool on the engine cylinder head and then become deposited onto the road surface where it could cause a skid risk to other motorist or if the fuel comes into contact with extremely hot engine components an exhaust manifold for instance it is possible that an under bonnet fire could ensue.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles inspect the fuel spill rail/return pipe and if required replace the spill rail with a new modified rail.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 1,985 vehicles

R/2011/04018 May 2011Headlights and indicators may malfuntion

Vehicles affected could demonstrate symptoms such as headlamps and indicators flashing unintentionally and/or headlamps switching off. The concern is due to software errors.

Fix: The vehicles that are likely to be affected are to be recalled to have modified software applied to the Body Control Module and Power Train Control Module.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 4 vehicles

R/2009/05021 May 2009Built 2008–2009Hard brake pedal may occur during engine warm up

During engine warm up it is possible that the non return valve within the vacuum pump may stick. It is possible that if sufficient brake applications are made before the valve releases the vacuum stored within the brake booster will be used up and a hard brake pedal and longer stopping distances may result.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to fit a revised design of non return valve to the brake vacuum pump.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 13,029 vehicles

R/2009/0439 Apr 2009Abs may not function correctly

The brakes may lock up under emergency braking conditions due to valves in the hydraulic control unit being of incorrect specification.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the hydraulic control unit.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 2 vehicles

R/2004/1322 Aug 2004Built 2004Possible unexpected braking.

The yaw rate sensor may be out of specification which may lead to unexpected braking

Fix: Recall affected vehicles inspect sensors and renew as necessary

Recalled models: MONDEO · 91 vehicles

R/2004/06530 Apr 2004Built 2004There is a possibility of unexpected braking.

Yaw rate sensor out of specification the effect of which may result in unexpected braking

Fix: Likely to be affected vehicles will be recalled for inspection of the yaw sensors which will be replaced as necessary.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 205 vehicles

R/2003/0834 Aug 2003Modification of handbrake lever

The handbrake may not hold the vehicle stationary when parked if it is not applied as directed in the owner literature.

Fix: Fit a revised handbrake assembly with an improved leverage ratio.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 72,682 vehicles

R/2003/0073 Feb 2003Built 2002Power steering pressure hose may chafe on engine inlet manifold.

The power steering pressure hose may chafe on the engine inlet manifold. This could ultimately result in an oil leak and a loss of power assistance to the steering.

Fix: Fit latest production level revised routing power steering pressure hose.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 801 vehicles

R/2002/08810 Jul 2002Built 2000–2002Battery cable may chafe and short circuit

Battery cable may chafe on transmission valve cover plate.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles check cable insulation repair if necessary and retain cable clear of cover plate.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 8,888 vehicles

R/2002/01820 Apr 2002Built 2000–2001Parking brake concern.

Under certain parking conditions the vehicle handbrake may not prevent the vehicle from moving.

Fix: Ford Dealers will fit an extension block to both rear caliper handbrake actuation levers.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 55,515 vehicles

R/2001/1138 Oct 2001Built 1999–2000Parking brake ratchet concern

The design of the parking brake ratchet teeth can allow a partial engagement resulting in damage to the tooth which can then slip to the next tooth. If ignored the wear will continue on the next tooth and the efficiency of the parking brake may become insufficient to hold the vehicle in place.

Fix: Replace parking brake lever assembly with one that has a revised tooth profile.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 32,642 vehicles

R/2000/04230 May 2000Built 1996–1998Brake fluid may leak from pressure limiting valve

Corrosion of the rear brake pressure limiting valve may allow brake fluid to leak from a joint.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and replace pressure limiting valve.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 160,373 vehicles

R/1999/0847 Oct 1999Built 1998Door latch concern

Some vehicles have been built with door latches which may not be to specification. An internal plastic pawl within the assembly may seize which results in the latch failing to function as designed preventing the door being securely shut.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and fit quality assured replacement door latches.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 32,232 vehicles

R/1998/0379 Jun 1998Built 1996–1998Unexpected deployment of passenger air bag

Unexpected passenger air bag deployment due to an electrostatic discharge through the air bag igniter.

Fix: Recall affected vehicles and fit ground wire to passenger air bag

Recalled models: MONDEO · 15,780 vehicles

R/1996/04015 Mar 1996Built 1995Possible failure of offside front brake caliper

It is possible that some Mondeo vehicles may have been fitted with a right hand front brake caliper where the casting is not to specification. In time this may result in fluid leakage with the loss of one brake circuit.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles for a check on the manufacturing date of the subject caliper. Caliper units falling within the affected range will be replaced.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 1,812 vehicles

R/1996/02223 Jan 1996Built 1995Failure of braking system vacuum assistance

The brake vacuum pump may cease to provide vacuum assistance. Should this occur greater brake pedal pressure would be needed and stopping distances may be increased.

Fix: The affected vehicles are being recalled to Ford dealers to have the brake pump manufacturing codes checked. Vacuum pumps within certain ranges will be replaced with new units. This campaign supersedes recall R1995/081 and includes all the vehicles alrea

Recalled models: MONDEO · 56,864 vehicles

R/1994/03826 Sept 1994Built 1992–1993Failure of headlamps

A possibility exists that excessive torque generated when turning on the headlamp switch may induce an internal open circuit and cause the headlamps to go out.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles for replacement of the headlamp switch with a revised component.

Recalled models: MONDEO · 211,452 vehicles

DVSA vehicle safety recalls (Crown copyright, Open Government Licence).

Checking a Ford Mondeo before you buy

Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.

Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests 2023 (Open Government Licence v3.0). Failure rates compare this model with all cars in the same age band. Fix prices are typical independent-garage estimates.
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