Buying a used Ford Mondeo (2010-2014)

Given continual improvements across generations of models dating back to the 1990s, it’s difficult to understand why local Ford Mondeo sales have remained underwhelming. One contributing factor was undoubtedly the overly ambitious retail prices of early models which subsequently required Ford Australia to tread carefully when introducing newer versions in order to prevent resale values from being trashed.

Third generation models – designated the ‘MC’ - arrived ‘Downunder’ late in 2010 in a range comprising hatchback, sedans and wagons. Three specification levels were available: LX, Zetec and Titanium. Gone after a brief but memorable tenure was the 162kW XR5 variant, so, at launch, the most powerful MC model Ford Mondeo was the 120kW turbodiesel.

Visual changes over the previous generation included a new bonnet, lights and nose-panel. Reactions to the restyle seemed mixed, however the MC Series did stand out in a crowd and the boot/hatch design was practical when trying to load larger objects.

The biggest change - one which would over time would prove controversial - was introduction of the PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission. Developed in conjunction with Getrag in Germany, the PowerShift was trumpeted as a transmission which would deliver both smoother shifting and a 10 percent cut in fuel consumption.

However, a litany of problems with the new six-speed auto resulted in it becoming a source of grief for dealership service departments and triggered legal action against Ford in several global markets, including Australia.

Nevertheless, Ford's strength in corporate fleet sales saw the Mondeo easily outselling the Honda Accord and Mazda 6, both of which were mostly purchased by private buyers. However, overall, Mondeo in Australia was outsold three to one by Toyota's four-cylinder Camry.

Pricing of the entry-level LX played a role, as did features - or lack thereof - in the lowest-spec Mondeo. Listed at almost $31,000 with mandatory auto transmission (a lot of European-spec Mondeos were manual), the 2.3-litre LX Hatch included electric windows front and rear, a CD player, lumbar adjustment, air-conditioning and remote locking. The wagon, with the 120kW diesel engine, abundant load-space and obvious appeal to fleet operators, upped the ask to $36,840.

Back in the hatch market, an extra $6000 would buy a 2.3-litre, petrol Mondeo Zetec model with 17-inch alloy wheels in place of the LX's steel rims, climate-control air-conditioning, a CD stacker, power seat adjustment, parking sensors and fog lights.

Jump into the $40K price bracket and Ford Mondeo offered the swish, leather-trimmed Titanium grade. Its list of standard inclusions read like a prestige vehicle priced north of $70,000.

Additional chunks of external brightwork sharpened the Titanium's appearance considerably and the upscale feel continued inside via dashboard embellishments and quality components. Admittedly the heated seats had limited appeal in many parts of Australia but, in that era, gave Ford buyers a warm feeling…in more ways than one.

Titaniums in hatchback form with the 120kW 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine were listed at $46,990 with the wagon $1500 more expensive.

Safety across the Mondeo range was a massive selling point and worth considering in the used market as well. Every variant was able to command the maximum 5 Star ANCAP test result and even the entry grade LX model, tailored to fleet buyers, offered side/front and head-protecting air-bags plus stability and traction control.

Ford's blunder in offering only underpowered Mondeos was redressed quickly and by mid-2011 a 2.0-litre Ecoboost engine was added to the range.

With 149kW/300Nm, it bettered the non-turbo 2.3-litre Duratec engine's power output by 26 per cent and delivered a huge 50 per cent more torque. As the name implied, this engine met more stringent emission standards and was claimed to use 15 percent less fuel than the 2.3-litre.

For many, the real disappointment of MC Series Ford Mondeos was the miss-match of a superb – and expensive to develop - chassis with, in lower grade models, underpowered engines. Things did improve once the Ecoboost arrived, but it wasn't a true replacement for the previous XR5 model

Road testers who pitched the 2.0-litre Mondeo Zetec into battle against similarly-sized and less powerful rivals, found the 149kW Ford no faster to 100km/h than a turbocharged Skoda Octavia or Volkswagen Passat nor the naturally aspirated Honda Accord Euro or Mazda 6. Admittedly, once autobahn speeds were reached, Ford’s new engine showed its class, but this wasn't much comfort to the family hauling a heavy trailer up the Bulli Pass between Sydney and Wollongong (who were probably wishing they'd picked the excellent turbo-diesel).

Handling and steering remained Mondeo plus points, satisfying virtually every professional evaluator who drove one. If the Mondeo you're considering doesn't deliver light, precise steering, predictable mid-bend behaviour, great bump absorption and rapid mid-range acceleration, then be cautious as it may well be harbouring some costly faults.

Cutting through suburban traffic in a Mondeo is a simple task, especially if you get one with the nifty 'proximity warning' device. The windows are a decent size and the relatively narrow 'A' pillars offer a good view of turning vehicles and darting pedestrians.

At speed, wind and tyre noise reportedly found their way into the cabin and on rougher country roads this noise could become intrusive. But at moderate speeds around town, things weren’t so noticeable.

Those hunting an economical car for commuting or rural running should find Ford Mondeo diesel models getting close to the claimed 5.9L/100km consumption figure. However, a diesel costs more to purchase and maintain so unless you do big annual kilometres (30,000km or more) or plan to keep the car for several years, a petrol version could be more cost-effective.

Load-space in the Mondeo wagon is cavernous and rear-seat room in the sedan is excellent. The rear seat is well shaped and lifts its occupants high enough so younger ones not in booster seats won't struggle to see out the side windows. Boot space in sedans is good but be aware Ford only supplied a 125mm 'temporary' spare wheel..

>> You will quickly find negative comment on Ford's Power Shift automatic transmission. Action is being taken on behalf of some consumers and Mondeos aren't specifically targeted in the current round of legal action, but caution is essential when considering purchase of a car with this transmission.

>> Vibration under acceleration, especially as the transmission upshifts, holding one ratio for too long and difficulty selecting reverse are initial warnings of expensive failure which may not be claimable against Ford. Ensure any car you consider is put through a professional pre-purchase examination.

>> Oil leaks were a common fault in early Mondeos and while the incidence decreased upon arrival of the MC series, leaks around the front of the engine, and from the transmission, are still a niggly issue.

>> Reports of overheating or failed temperature sensors aren't common, but basic checks for coolant system leaks are wise. Look at hoses and especially junction points for swelling or leaks. In rare cases the plastic radiator casing can split, causing steam to escape. Never attempt to repair or refill a split radiator - it must be replaced.

>> Cars which have travelled 80-100,000kms can be due for replacement bushes in the front suspension and possibly dampers as well. Rattles on rough roads, steering kick-back and excessive body roll signify money needing to be spent.

Used Vehicle Grading
Design & Function: 11/20
Safety: 15/20
Practicality: 15/20
Value for Money: 13/20
Wow Factor: 13/20 (Titanium)
Score: 67/100

Also Consider: Mazda 6, Skoda Octavia, Toyota Camry

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